Im just hoping the 09s are an improvement over the 99s. I know the progressive monotube is gonna help the front and the 06 swingarm setup should help the rear out a bit. Also just got a stabilizer today in the mail.

 

I'm not sure what if anything they changed between the two years but you figure the 99s have to be kind of sacked out by now. They say that the progressive cartridges help the front out but once i got the good shocks on the rear i found that they were most of the problem. Front triple trees on the touring models are real weak they don't clamp the top of the fork tubes it is what it is a HD.

 

I heard they are valved different and can handle higher loads.

 

I totally understand the budget thing. You already got the 09s, so try 'em like they are if they haven't lost any fluid. If they have lost fluid in transit or whatever, drain them and fill with Amsoil 5w Shock Therapy as a start point. If you need to up the fluid weight later, you can mix 5W and 10W in differnt proportions to achieve anything in between the two. I ended up changing fluid 3 times in the 09, settled for 75/25, 3 parts 5w to 1 part 10w. I've only used the Amsoil so its the only fluid I can comment on. Theres lots of fluid choices out there, but whatever the Amsoil 10w viscosity is, its too heavy for the 09 shocks you have. I've seen others say lighter fluid also, but I'm sorry I can't recommend an exact fluid for you. search "making stock shocks better", lot of info there about fluid changes. Just be mindful that most of the info is pre 09.

 

50 psi max in those 09 rears per the manual...

 

changed to progressive 940's

 

I am glad to know I am not the only person who thinks the 09 touring bikes have awful rear suspension.

 

I fitted an 07 swingarm, wheel, brake and everything else to my old Evo. Haven't addressed the front forks yet, but I recommend you sell that kidney! I have custom-built Ohlins from Motorcycle Metal, #3 type. For the first time in that bike's life (owned from new in 1990) it no longer bottoms out, even 2-up. Ride is superb. Brace yourself and give Howard a call. Ask him to be gentle with ya!

I also have a True-Track kit, which is a further improvement in the handling department. Hopefully you'll get enough change from Howard and the sale of that kidney!

 

On my 06 UC I have progressive 416's so I could have the adjustability, because I pull a trailer on long trips. I also have progressive springs in the forks. Much better ride than stock after I put on the 416's.