Suspension questions

[Mountain rider]

I'm looking to re-do the front forks on the 86 Aspy, so question number 1, Progressive or Race Tech springs? Is there any advantage with the straight rate springs over the progressive springs? Another question, would there be any advantage to scrapping the air ride system (front and rear) and going with a standard suspension system?

Having done a flush and fill on the front forks has done wonders for the control and feel of the ride. Even the wife felt more comfortable and commented on how much better everything felt. I can only imagine rebuilding the forks with new springs and seals would not help but improve things drastically.

[CrystalPistol]

For me ... 1985 GL1200A mostly two up but often just me .... Progressive frt springs and #416 rear air / spring shocks and 15 wgt fork oil. Rear shocks are stiffer dampers and really tamed down "bobbing" or porpoising of rear end on long sweepers which in turn eliminated most of rake changes so much steadier there.

I made the up grade 20 years ago ... near $300 and change then. "Wife Unit" has often commented on improved ride.

[chrisz]

For my '83 I've replaced the air shocks with Hagons on the rear and straight springs (with gold valve emulators) for the front. This has improved the ride for me markedly. Using straight springs on the front for me was key as you know what you are getting as the springs compress, with progressives there is always that uncertainty due to the various compression rates possible.

[sportsfreaked]

I did my 85 Limited Edition over the winter. I put progressive springs up front and used 15wt fork oil. The ride was just to rough for me with 15wt oil so I went back to ATF and it's much smoother. I also put progressive air shocks on the back. Wow what a difference in ride with the forks and the shocks. I kept the air suspension because I do ride up 2 up and like to be able to adjust. I always ride with no air in the front. If you are going to put new shocks on I would suggest doing the swing arm bearings while you are there. I put new swing arm bearings in as well and man she handles great now. I also repacked the steering head bearings with new grease.

I went with progressive springs just because of cost. The Race tech springs were double the price and the progressives work just as well. What ever you go with you won't be disappointed in the ride. It makes a world of difference especially 2 up. Best of luck.

[Mountain rider]

Thanks so much, the answers are greatly appreciated. I'm seriously considering the Race Techs, as I like the uniformity of performance. J&P has them for $111 and change, only $24 more than the Progressives, so worth a try. I'm thinking while I have the forks apart, I may as well repack and torque the steering head bearings. That pretty much leaves me with the timing belts and another oil change left to do before next Spring.

[sportsfreaked]

Make sure that the Race Tech is for a PAIR. Most places that I looked at sold Race Tech as a single spring and not in PAIRS.

[grand rouge]

Sonicsprings.com Straight rate. $84.00 US. Have them in 84 Aspy. Most excellent. 10wt. Maxima fork oil. 6 inches from top of empty collapsed fork. I have Progressive springs in my 85 LTD. Same fork oil specs. Better ride / control with the Sonics.

[Rednaxs60]

If you are going to do the forks and at the same time repack the steering stem bearings, I'd replace the bearings with a new set from All Balls. Changed mine this year and even though they did not exhibit any wear requiring replacement, the bottom bearing fell apart when I tried to remove it. I was a bit surprised after only 33 years (tongue in cheek).

[Mountain rider]

sportsfreaked, thanks for making me look. You are right, that price is per spring, not per pair. Rednaxs60 and grandrouge, thanks for the information. You're right, if I've got the head apart, it's just as easy to replace them as repack them, and if a straight rate set of springs is available for about the same price as the Progressive's, why not. I really appreciate all the help as I want to do this once and get it right. Doing the work is cool, but I'd rather be out riding.