Does rear shock length affect belt tension on a '04 harley sportster xl1200c

 

Yes. If the shock length places the centerlines of the front pulley, swingarm pivot bolt, and rear pulley in a straight line, as the shock compresses, the belt loosens a little. Same if the rear pulley centerline is above a line drawn from the front pulley through the swingarm pivot bolt. However, if the rear pulley is below that line (with long shocks), the belt will tighten as it reaches the point where all 3 centerlines line up, and loosen again as it passes that point.

 

Just thinking about it, I'd say YES

 

Yes, as said above. I run 15" rear shocks and I needed a belt tensioner to take up the slack. I adjust my belt with no rear shocks installed. I position my swingarm parallel ( tightest belt position ). I then adjust the belt tension with the swingarm parallel. Then i adust my tensioner.

 

 

Yes, it does on all belt-drive bikes, including our Harleys, all models.

 

Yes. But I've gone from my 11" to 13" with no issues. The tension did not change enough to warrant an adjustment.

 

Yes it does.