Unlower a low suspension model?

[SteveJF]

Hi All,

I'm just about to purchase a DOHC R1200GS TU (2011) a lowered suspension model. I would have chosen a normal model, but the bike came along at a price where it is viable to change it back...

within limits.

My basic research indicates that I will need to change the Front/Rear suspension units, plus the higher centre stand and side stand. Does anyone know if that is the extent of the mods?

Obviously, before I swap everything and spend a fair chunk of money, I'll ride the bike to see how I get on.

So any comments on the experiences of owning a LS model would be helpful. BTW I am 100kg and 186cm (16 Stone and 6ft 1in in UK old money).

Eitherway, I am so pleased to be getting another GS. Previously owned a R100GS, R1100GS and R1150GS. I have returned to two wheels on a Tiger 955i after 10 years off, which is excellent and I've really enjoyed. But this GS was too good an offer to turn down - being to my mind perfection on two wheels.

Cheers

Steve

 

[Delboy777]

Im thinking that you would be better finding a normal height GS. It could cost a fair bit to alter a lowered bike. But if the bike is k cheaper then im sure second hand parts could be found


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[Sgt.Cupid]

I have a rebuilt rear shock from a 2009 thats I'm about to sell. If you're interested PM me.

Oneplus 2 = my phone

 

[Santa-2512]

Or see if there is someone on here who is after a lowered setup

Straight swap and a days work

Mart

 

[Bendy toy]

The lowered shocks should sell well. Stands are not costly or could be extended for not much money.

If it's got the OEM low seat you will also need a new seat.

If it's a GSA only 35mm lower you might even prefer it.


Sent somehow.

 

[oldnfat]

Yep, that's it....done it myself, very simple.

 

[SteveJF]

I've had a quote for both stands @ £120 approx (s/h). New shocks depending on which I choose - £700 to £1100.

The seat is standard.

I would probably choose Maxton as I've used them before and they are simply superb. Even at the top end of the cost, it is still worthwhile.

Thanks to all for the really prompt replies .

I'd be interested to hear more about the swap and any curve balls that got thrown on the way. Or (and I'm guessing it is from the responses) it seems a pleasant days spannering and a lifetime of fun

 

[Delboy777]

I have a very good condition centre stand you could have but its from a GSA maybe a tad high though. £45 delivered. If its any good to you drop me a PM


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[Delboy777]

In fact i might also have a side stand too I cant remember


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[Sgt.Cupid]

Just watch out for the rear shocks bottom bolt if it's never been out. BMW use concrete as thread lock, it needs lots of heat and a decent breaker bar.

Oneplus 2 = my phone

 

[Bendy toy]

I've recently fitted GS shocks to my GSA because my old shocks are worn out. I will be getting them rebuilt.
The shock lengths are identical.
The front is quite a big job because so much has to be removed to actually extract the old unit and fit the new one.
I miss the softer springing of the GSA. The GS shock does not cope with poor roads as well. The reduced squat and dive does not make up for that loss.
I've ridden a bike with a rear Wilbers ( not a BMW). The improvement was amazing so that's the route I would like to take. I want to reduce the squat & dive and the amount of static sag from the GSA units without making it too stiff.
In my case 1" shorter shocks would be handy as well.


Sent somehow.

 

[Santa-2512]

Or see if anyone has a std bike they want to lower?

assuming the parts are compatible .. and the milages are favourable

that way you get your standard parts, the recipient gets lowered parts


mart

 

[SteveJF]

I have a very good condition centre stand you could have but its from a GSA maybe a tad high though. £45 delivered. If its any good to you drop me a PM


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I'll check the part numbers. I think the GSA has 1 inch higher suspension than the std GS, so might not work

Thanks for the offer.

 

[Bendy toy]

I'll check the part numbers. I think the GSA has 1 inch higher suspension than the std GS, so might not work

Thanks for the offer.

This what I was told. Then I bought some low miles GS shocks and found they were the same length. The bike actually rides a little higher because the GSA has softer springs.
Maybe mine were from an optional talker GS.


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[SteveJF]

Delboy777,

Could you send some photo's over (not sure if you can send directly to me)? Not sure if the seat is lowered or standard - although the seller said std.

I will need the side and centre stand.

Steve

 

[SteveJF]

I'm now a little confused...

I picked up the GS this afternoon and I've been checking through the documentation.

The original sales invoice states "Seat Height Reduction". I guess this means this has a lower seat and maybe not lowered suspension.

How can I tell? Either way I'll be fitting new suspension front and rear.

Cheers

 

[Bendy toy]

Talk to Revs Racing Halesowen about the suspension. There is not much they don't know on the subject.
Tomorrow I'll measure my seat height from footrest. It's a standard height Kahedo but should be close enough.


Sent somehow.

 

[SteveJF]

Talk to Revs Racing Halesowen about the suspension. There is not much they don't know on the subject.
Tomorrow I'll measure my seat height from footrest. It's a standard height Kahedo but should be close enough.


Sent somehow.

Just spoken to the guys at Revs. They seem like a great team and are able to offer the solution I need at a fair price.

I have no knowledge or experience of Wilbers, can anyone comment? I'll trawl forums for comments and reports as well.

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[SteveJF]

A request

Hi,

I have a request. Could someone measure their centre stand on a std height bike and let me know the length from the centre of the top pivot to the bottom of the stand?

I can't think of another way (sort of phone BMW UK) if this is a Low suspension model or not.

The seat is definitely a LS variety - the original sales invoice and my rear end confirm it...

Thank you in advance

Steve

 

[Delboy777]

Just spoken to the guys at Revs. They seem like a great team and are able to offer the solution I need at a fair price.

I have no knowledge or experience of Wilbers, can anyone comment? I'll trawl forums for comments and reports as well.

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By all accounts Wilbers are the muts nuts and had I not been languishing in hospital I would at this moment be getting ready for a road trip down to Revs to have a set fitted.


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