Shorter shocks

[ThreeDawg]

I think I may be getting to the point where I need to lower my 1100GS, especially when two up and with luggage. At the moment I'm riding it like that but with the seat lowered which is horribly cramped with my dodgey hip and knee.

If I fit R1100R shocks, how much would the bike be lowered roughly? At the moment I have Wilbers on the bike, but I'd like to try the conversion out using s/h shocks before messing with the fancy ones.

 

[shedman]

I strongly recommend T-Tech Suspension (Denzo of this parish) , email [email protected] and mention ukgser. I had a pair of Wilber's tuned and shortened for a 1200GS and cannot speak highly enough of the service I received.

 

[ThreeDawg]

Of course, Denzo.

How did the 1200 feel after the work? Did you up the spring rate?

 

[shedman]

It was a couple of years ago I bought the 2007 1200GS, rode it back from London to Cumbria with a 180N spring in the rear unit suitable for a 130/140 kg rider. I am 5'7" and 67kg, it was a memorable but crap journey home. There was a spare spring with the bike, 150N rate and suitable for my weight, Denzo fitted this and shortened both front and rear units to lower the ride height by 30mm. He also sorted the valving which he said was poor when dynoed, he said the valving in Wilbers can vary considerably and is often poor. He also said I would not need to shorten the centre stand which proved to be true (except with a flat rear tyre).
The end result was lovely suspension, floaty yet precise, if that's not a contradiction !
A worthwhile exercise.

 

[ThreeDawg]

Thanks for that, sounds like I should go for it when I get back (I'm in Peru on the GS ATM)

 

[shedman]

enjoy