Options for Lowering my Bike

  • PaulyWally
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16 Oct 2011 10:44 #483498 by PaulyWally
Options for Lowering my Bike was created by PaulyWally
I want to lower my bike. I'm only 5'6" and I'm on my tip-toes at a stop.

I'm going to be getting a lower profile seat, and that should take 1-2 inches off. I'd like to try and take another inch off the chassis. I've been investigating quite a bit, and aside from chopping, here is what I've found my options to be:

FRONT:
Shorter forks/fork tubes
Remove Stock Spacer(s)
Install Spacers
Smaller wheel/tire

REAR:
Shorter Shocks
Lowering Blocks
Smaller wheel/tire

So... Did I miss anything? What is generally recommended? Any other info/thoughts I need to consider?

Thanks!

1976 KZ750 Twin

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16 Oct 2011 11:18 #483505 by Patton
Replied by Patton on topic Options for Lowering my Bike
Riding boots with tall heels, such as cowboy boots, are often helpful.

Good Fortune! :)

1973 Z1
KZ900 LTD

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16 Oct 2011 11:24 - 16 Oct 2011 11:30 #483509 by DivideOverflow
Replied by DivideOverflow on topic Options for Lowering my Bike
In the rear, a lot of people just use lowering links, which adjusts the attachment point of the shocks to a higher point on the bike, that way you don't have to change the shocks or anything else expensive. You just need to ensure that nothing rubs.

On the front, you can just lower the clamp on the forks. There are instructions in the service manuals, but basically it involves loosening the fork clamps, and sliding the clamps down a little. This generally takes 2 people to get it right. You should sit on the bike to measure, make the adjustment, and check again. Also, if you drop the front too much, it will negatively impact handling (more likely to wobble). I guess that is what you were talking about with the spacer...

You should be able to get the adjustment you want without spending a lot of money.

1980 KZ750E1
North Carolina Crew
Last edit: 16 Oct 2011 11:30 by DivideOverflow.

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16 Oct 2011 14:11 - 15 Feb 2013 11:40 #483531 by martin_csr
Replied by martin_csr on topic -
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Last edit: 15 Feb 2013 11:40 by martin_csr.

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16 Oct 2011 16:42 #483548 by ramtough_63
Replied by ramtough_63 on topic Options for Lowering my Bike
I'm 5'4" slid the forks up used a shorter rear shock. back in the day they made lowering blocks the moved the angle of the shock back. I cant find anyone who makes them now. (brother made a set for my goldwing)I have however seen a few sets go on ebay for crazy money I am gonna order the lowering blocks for the forks from schnitz racing when I disassemble it this winter. because im still on my tip toes unless I wear my old school harley boots lol

1978 KZ1000 A2
Thrown Together To Ride Til Winter
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16 Oct 2011 17:14 #483555 by Patton
Replied by Patton on topic Options for Lowering my Bike
Don't be surprised to discover that the lowering blocks result in a very stiff strut-like rear suspension.

Good Fortune! :)

1973 Z1
KZ900 LTD

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