Hey All,
New to the forum and need some help. i have a friend and she has a 2014 883. need to lower the ride height about 2 inches . i have seen adjustable shocks and lowering kits . will this visually affect the stance of the bike ? will affect the handling at all . shes only been riding for 3 years but i noticed the other day in a steep hill , she almost lost it because she was on her toes at a stop. on level ground barely both feet planted . any input suggestions would be appreciated.

 

Maybe start with a low profile seat. From stock this will give 1-2".

11" shocks. You can go as low as 10" but it'll be a pretty firm ride.

Lowering blocks, but only in conjunction with 11" or higher shocks. Even with 11" you would not want more than a 1" lowering block. Do your research here to make sure you have clearance.

 

I should see her and the bike this week i'll take some measurements and also check out the bike .....lol thanks for suggestions i didn't think about the seat i saw j&p has shocks that adjusted to 3 inches from factory . I don't think she'll need more that 2. her bike is all stock so if stock shocks are 11 inches i'll check out the blocks . whats better in your opinion blocks or the lowering kits with the brackets that i assume just reposition the shock back a litttle more on the bottom. ?

 

Also check the thickness of her shoe soles. Thick boots can help.

 

or i could put her on the rack and stretch her a little make a her a little taller!! lol

 

Indeed so - start at the ground and work up! I don't know if they still do, but H-D used to sell heavy-soled and heeled ladies boots, which can improve leg reach and grip. I'm also sure that other brands are available! I was looking at a pair earlier this afternoon in my local Yamaha dealer.

 

As mentioned, seats and boots are great options. Using a 1" Lowering Block Kit will also get her feet 1" closer to the ground.

It will drop the seat an inch lower...most will not notice the slight change in stance.

Regarding handling, most will not notice the change, but there will be less lean angle in the curves before scraping the pegs, and the steering will be slightly heavier.

See more on Lowering Block Kits for that model Sporty at this LINK.

 

Sir Graham! Do you wear ladies boots?? I had no idea...

 

Just passing time in the showroom while their mechanics gave my Buell it's annual inspection - idle curiosity, no more!

 

Thanks to all i will def pass along your suggestions .