Triumphrat

FattRat · 09-12-2005, 12:40 PM

I went for a rather spirited ride yesterday on the BonnieBlack. Lemme first say that before I went out, I decided to use the Triumph recommended psi (plus an additional pound for my 240lb.s), unlike on my prior rides.

In addition, as advised (over the phone) by a reputable suspension specialist.... I ran my factory rear shocks in their softest setting in an attempt to match the overly soft factory front-end.

Between these two changes, the bike didn't wallow, wiggle, or pogo on a bumpy road with switchbacks that was taken at a spirited 40 to 70 mph.

- HOWEVER -

I found my foot wedged between the tarmac and gear lever during an up-shift while I was leaned over. In addition, my buddy (behind me on his K1200R), commented that it looked like I was dragging all sorts of stuff ("side-stand/pegs") while I was riding through some downhill switchbacks.

Soooooo........
I'm gonna get some Progressive springs & decent fluid up front, and considering the Ikon shocks (with their multiple adjustments) for the back.
My question:
I plan to mount some Hepko Becker hard bags to the bike and keep 'em there pretty much all the time. Though my 24" inseam doesn't allow my feet to reach the ground now, would I be better served considering the taller Ikons made for the Thruxton? And would there be anything additional I would have to do with the front end?
Or (for my short legs) would I be okay with simply better shocks (Ikon?) in the prescribed Bonneville length?
Note: Though short, I'm a phatphucker too..... weighing in at 240 pounds (plus the leather, helmet, armor, Brandy & cigars in one bag, first aid kit & water in the other.)

Those of you who know, I anxiously await your wisdom. My 200 mile run yesterday was an absolute kick in the BUTT fun day! The factory suspension seems to work better if you keep the rear shocks at their softest setting, and I guess Triumph might knew what they were talking about when they advised 33/38 for the tires........ go figure.

rickykarate99 · 09-12-2005, 03:18 PM

Taller rear shocks are a very good idea. They will sharpen the steering plus give you more cornering clearance and shock travel.

I'd suggest the Hagon's through Dave Quinn motorcycles. I've got the cheap-o $179 version on my Thrux and it's a world of difference, with much better ride quality. Stock bonnie shock length is 340mm, stock Thruxton is 365mm. Dave also stocks a 350mm, which is a nice compromise between the Bonnie and the Thrux. Happy riding!

RedBird · 09-12-2005, 11:22 PM

Rat,

My recommendation is to give Works Performance a call--they are out in your area and they make shocks that are second to none and they make them to fit you (they make them to your specific weight with riding gear). If you are not satisfied with them, they will rebuild them until you are! Price is about the same for similar shocks, but their higher performance shocks can approach $500 or more.

My dealer is an old racer and he will not ride a bonnie unless it has Thrux length shocks on it. He says it makes all the difference in the world in how it handles in curves. Of course he doesn't ride with stock shocks either.

Since you are inseam challenged, I would stay with the stock length or go 1" shorter and look into lowering the front the same amount. With your weight, I believe you will be much happier with shocks from Works.

Larry

VR6 · 09-12-2005, 11:34 PM

I'm 6'3" and 225 and I have the Ikons. With the middle spring preload setting it does fine on smooth roads but pushing it in the corners it feels like it wants to wander a little. With the max preload it is fine until it is asked to do too much then if feels like it bottoms out. I think I'm undersprung. Regardless of what shocks you get I would recommend making sure they put a spring on them for your weight. Good luck.

VR6 :-D

PS, I've been told that it looks like I drag all sorts of things on my bike too. :hammer: