Hard to get bike on the center stand? Buy new shocks/springs

[Ansimp]

I purchased some second hand progressive shocks from eBay for the Rats Nest as I was having great difficulty getting her on the center stand. In 2013 fully loaded I could easily flick her up on the center stand and couldn't understand all these other riders that were driving onto blocks of would etc to get their bikes up onto the center stand. After a couple of years of hard miles I had become one of these riders that needed a block of wood under the back tire to get my bike up onto the center stand. I felt like the rear springs/shocks had sagged and even with full air pressure they were letting me down. I installed my new ( second hand ) progressives and what a difference. Not only does the Rats Nest jump up onto the center stand but huge potholes don't even rate a mention. :good:

Progressive rear shocks installation

• Ansimp
• Jul 31, 2016

Progressive air shock install

• Ansimp
• Aug 1, 2016

If you are bottoming out or having trouble getting your bike onto the center stand then get new springs/ shocks. You won't be disappointed. :yes:
I can't believe how well the Rats Nest handles with the new rears and I can't wait to change the front springs. I now know why this bike was such a poised canyon carver when I first rode her in the USA and once those 35 year old springs are changed she will be perfect for the job again. arty:

 

[zman]

Good to know, I was thinking a spring kit might make the ride better, Think I am sagging too, even full up on air seems soft, actually front and rear seem soft.
Congrats on the success.

 

[joedrum]

yep oldwings should never had relied on air to replace springs and use weaker stuff on bikes made to carry a lot ...and travel ...age proves this to be not a good thing ...what was ever wrong with adjustable spring rate system ....

 

[Denver]

Damper's make a huge difference as well, :yes: maybe more than the spring's do. :good:

 

[mcgovern61]

I did the same here with new rear shocks and now new Progressive fork springs. Huge difference.

Think of it......how many 35 year old cars are out there on the road? How many of them have their original shocks and springs? :whip:

Sometimes we are a funny group that way in that we expect everything on our 30+ year old bike to remain original forever! :hihihi:

 

[julimike54]

I think it's because you look at the ODO & see xx,xxx miles thinking it's not that old. At least that is what I have to keep reminding myself

 

[Ansimp]

+1 with Gerry and Mike :yes: