I seem to remember something about needing to lower the front and the back or something may be off. Is that right, is it cool to lower the back only. At the very least I plan on dropping the front end by sliding the forks up into the trees a bit but not putting lowering springs into the forks as some others have.

 

you'll be fine....i would recommend the progressive front end kit though ..just makes the bike handle better...noticeably

 

How far can you safely slide the forks up before you have handling or kickstand issues?

 

i slid mine about an inch and it seems to handle very well...

 

Lowering only the front or the back changes the bike's geometery and can/will effect handling. If you can drop both ends equally, you stand a better chance at keeping your good handling, and gaining the lowered look of feel (if you have short legs) that you want.

Lowering the rear only will effect the bike's ability to turn into corners. Raising the rear (or lowering the front) increases that ability and helps the bike turn easier. Make small adjustments at a time and keep track of what and how far you move things, so you can always go back to your "sweet spot" if you make it worse.

+1 on changing out the front springs with Progressive suspension, rather than just dropping the fork tubes through the trees.

 

Lowering the rear only will increase the trail of the front end. 1" shouldn't make it unbearable, but you might notice a slight difference in turning.

 

I lowered my street bob 1" in the rear with 11" shocks and didn't lower my front. I can't notice much of a differance but if anything it handles a little better. I am planning on lowering the front eventually though.

 

+1 - have to agree, Progressive springs are a real plus in the handling dept, but you can go with the standard (as opposed to lowering kit) progressive springs as they come with a spacer you can cut down to the exact height you want (ie level front to back).

 

What about the kickstand?

I have lowered the rear an inch on my Streetbob and am thinking of doing the same to the front. Is there a kickstand kit out there that would work or am I going to find my bike on its side one day?

 

I haven't really noticed much of a problem - just am always careful where/how I park anyway.

But others have said they are concerned, though.

Search around ebay or the J&P catalog, I know there are some shortened kickstand/jiffy stands for lowered bikes out there, think HD has/had one as part of their lowering kit as well, not sure if it can be ordered separately or not. Others have suggested heating and bending (carefully) the stock one.

I'm sure someone will chime in with more specifics. Good Luck!