Author Topic: How to size the spacer for Progressive springs? (Read 6130 times)

davesavvy · « **on:** November 01, 2006, 07:15:02 AM »

Hey all-

I tried searching but didn't find what i was looking for. After deciding that upgrading my front suspension for my winter project, I had to chose between the Progressive vs. Race tech/gold valve mods. Although the RT/GV is probably the "best", it's just too much (performance & cost) for what I really need.

So after reading and searching, the Progressive install seems easy and fairly inexpensive and will be a lot better than stock, good enough for me.

So my question is this:

Is there a way to pre-determine what size 1" pvc spacer to use based on rider's weight and riding style? I know RT/GV has an online calculator to identify the spring kg size, which is nice. But Progressive seems like there is just 1 spring choice but the spacer length will effect the preload.

I have seen people reference spacers from 1" longer than stock to +4", but that's useless info to others without knowing their weight/riding style.

Any info would be appreciated.

BTW I'm 210 w/ gear on an 03' 1200S.

PS Please don't turn this thread into a Progressive VS Racetech/Gold Valve thread...there is already plenty of those.

chupacabra · « **Reply #1 on:** November 01, 2006, 07:45:39 AM »

I'd extend the tube to the max, place spring, washer, and then a piece of PCV . Mark it right at the top of the tube. Cut the PVC about 1/8 inch longer and you should be very close.

Read the directions that come with the springs.

I made three sizes for my B6, 3 3/8, 3 1/5, and 3 5/8, alot shorter then stock. Stock springs are shorter so the spacer is longer. I started out making a 3 1/2 but when I finished it ended up being 1/8 short so I made a match. It worked alot better then stock, but still weak. I made a new set at 3 1/5, big differents. I made one more set at 3 5/8. haven't tried those yet. I need to change oil and seals first. Its ez to change spacers, only takes about ten minutes.

davesavvy · « **Reply #2 on:** November 01, 2006, 06:00:56 PM »

But how would that method account for riders that weigh 180 lb. vs 280 lb.? Once again, getting back to my original question...is there a way that the spacer length can be predetermined by a rider's weight and riding style?

theroamr · « **Reply #3 on:** November 13, 2006, 05:34:27 PM »

If adding the Progressive front springs to a 1200 you use the stock spacer. You only need a longer spacer if adding them to a 600.

chupacabra · « **Reply #4 on:** November 13, 2006, 08:01:07 PM »

The spacers I cut for my G1 B6 we're alot shorter then stock, 2" or 3" shorter.

kedeg_97B12 · « **Reply #5 on:** November 14, 2006, 10:35:12 AM »

Quote from: "theroamr"

If adding the Progressive front springs to a 1200 you use the stock spacer. You only need a longer spacer if adding them to a 600.

That's what I thought. Mine is first gen but the directions said reuse the stock shims. Don't know about the much slower second gens though.

pmackie · « **Reply #6 on:** November 14, 2006, 08:25:24 PM »

My bike is a 2nd gen 600, the Progressive instructions said to cut the spacers even with the top tubes, and this was a good start.

I weigh 180 lbs, usually travel with a tank bag and Kappa hard bags. Tend towards more aggressive cornering...

The "even with the top" suggestion from Progressive worked well. Smooth ride, but I am going to add about 3/8" more preload this winter, as the ride was still a little soft in the corners.