My son wants to lower his 05xl using shorter shocks. The standard shocks on the bike are 13". We are thinking of using the nightster 11" shocks but are concerned that they may lower it too much causing the tire to hit on the inside of thefender. Does anyone have experience or suggestions with this mod?

 

I have never used Nightster shocks on my bike but I know if he went with the 11.5" progressives it would be a real safe bet that nothing would rub. The Progressives ride much nicer than stock HD shocks as well.
These would work nicely on his bike...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/PROGR...spagenameZWDVW
Hope this helps cuse
E.

 

Try theinexpensive lowering brackets on eBay first......about 40-50 bucks....You may decide they are perfect.

Searh on eBay keywords "lowering Sportster".

 

I have 11" Progressives and my fender doen't scrape.

 

The shorter shocks equal less shock travel and a bit rougher ride. On the flip side, if you use lowering blocks with the longer 13" shocks, you will retain plenty of shock travel but may not have the fender clearance to accomodate that travel over bumps. I'd look at 11.5" Progressives as a good compromise. The 11" will work but you will have a noticeably harsher ride.