I have a 2003 FXDWG and want to go fully covered chrome shocks on the back. I'm thinking the 11" shock package but I'm curious to know if I'd need to also lower the front in order to keep decent handling and curb appeal. If I need to lower the front how low does it need to go? I see that Progressive Suspension components seem to be the kits of choice on this forum. Anybody get one from them and if so what kit number did you get?
Thanks for any input.

 

I didn't lower the front when I put on 11s. It handles differently, but not at all badly.

 

I got the heavy duty Progressive 412s on back and went with standard duty Progressive springs in front and cut down the spacer to level the bike and improve overall handling compared to stock - tremendous positive difference now - love the way it handles - the heavy duties may not be for everyone as they are quite stiff, but to me the trade off for a really planted ride that hugs the corners is worth it. Check out Progressive's website http://www.progressivesuspension.com/ - they have all the part numbers and applications clearly listed.

Chip

 

you dont Have to lower the front, you might want to.

It will handle better, but of course as always the choice is yours.

You could cheat and lower the front simply, just slide your forks up in the trees

Best of luck and welcome

 

the way the forks are made you can not slide them up in the trees. just put the 11's from progressive on mine sort of rides like a low rider with 2 on it a little bounce but not to bad. Will get around to lowering the front when i am not riding 2 up.

 

Critter,
Nice ride. Of course I'm biased to the color.

 

i put the 11`s on mine a 05 wideglide, diffently helped with the look, esp on a wideglide, but felt a little squirlly in front and looked dumped in rear so put on race tech springs in front lowered it 1 in and bike looks very cool and what a difference in handling do drifting in corners sticks like a porche~

 

simply... yes! not going to hurt anything if you don't. however the front end WILL perform so much better. as Iposted many times before the kit isn't expensive its the labor that kills. do it when you need to change out a tire/rim/brakes and the bite won't be so bad.

ohhh and IMO drop the front only 1"... you will not be disappointed!!!

 

I lowered the frontfor the handling and for the looks. Like the bottom of the frame to be parallel with the ground.

 

by lowering the back, you increase the front rake and trail slightly. the bike will be a little heavier turning. you will also find it might be less inclined to wobble.