Has anybody who has a 08 SG noticed the ride seems stiff. While riding down the freeway the other day I hit a couple bi-level slabs and almost got catapulted off the bike. And, about a month ago, there is a drainage culvert
that extends half way into the street. I hit this s.o.b. going about 50 and I bounced so hard I was pissing blood that night. I don't get it, I only put about 5 lbs of air in the shocks, but they feel like they are bottomed out all the time.
Do I need new shocks already? Or maybe one of those air compressor set up's.

 

Check the manual, I don't have mine with me but I think that the average 180-200 lb rider should have about 20lbs in the suspension. They can take up to 50 lbs. Just slowly keep adding pressure and your ride will improve. BTW mine is an 09.

 

Maybe they are bottoming out. In which case, add more air.

 

The '08's take less air than the '09's. Stock shocks are JUNK... I put the progressive 430's (11-1/2") on my bike and it was ALOT better. I got tired of scraping my boards, so I bought a set of Ohlins (12" shocks and am waiting patiently for them, should be here friday. I hated the way my bike rode stock, change them crappy things out for either Ohlins, Penske, Works performance, Progressive, or anything else. You will be happier...

 

Ditto, Try adding more air. Remember the SG shocks are an inch lower to begin with.

 

You got that backwards...The '09's take less air then the previous models......

Solo rider on an '09= 10-15 PSI (unless your baby huey LOL)

 

New shocks will be a big help. Check out motorcyclemetal.com for a discussion of Penske shocks - I put these on my bike and it has made a huge difference in ride quality. Call Howard directly.

 

What you are describing sounds like you are bottoming out, “Jolts on major bumps”.
That would mean you need more air.

Since 5lbs isn’t working for ya, try 10 lbs. I was getting the same feeling this year at 8lbs, so I am now up to 12 lbs. It’s better I’m not getting those sudden jolts.

 

You need more air, at least 20psi for a solo rider depending on weight. Buy a hand pump so you can adjust it to suit your needs on the fly/ride. I know what I need for daily riding, and two up w/a tour pack on my SG. Having the correct amount of psi makes a big difference in ride quality.

 

I changed the oil in my shocks to a 10 weight oil and it made a world of difference.