Making a list of upgrades to make over the winter and tops is an upgrade to the rear shock and spring. Thinking about Progressing Suspension 465 (PN 465-1048) but they do not list the 800 Drifter on their sight. They do list the Vulcan 800 and Vulcan Classic 800 and both use the 465-1048. Will that work on the Drifter? Anyone using this shock? Is it worth the money?
Generally, Progressive's provide a positive upgrade. I don't have any other info on this one.
I had the same results in a search, so emailed their technical people, will let you know what the reply is.
Heard back from someone at progressiven named Bryce- said they have no application for the 800 ;though they likely have something that will work.
So its find something that works but isn't listed for it, or buy from kaw.
Is the rear shock & spring on the Vulcan 800 and Vulcan Classic 800 different than the Drifter? I was hoping one of them would use the same.
Did a little research online and if you look at OEM shocks the 2000 Classic and Drifter use the same part numbers. This makes me believe that the Progressive 465-1048 should work. I am running this be Progressive and I will let you know what they say.
I'm riding the fence waiting for more information about this swap. Keep it comin'! Mike in TX
I have a progressive shock on mine so something fits. Drifters here are rare but a fellow with a 99 saw mine out front and stopped in . I haven't seen his bike but he said mine is lower by about an inch. I've had a question on the site regarding how to adjust it but no replys. Am I the only one with a Progressive setup?
May be... but progressive should have instructions on their site.
Heard back from Progressive Suspension ans here is what they said:
"We do have an option of a heavier rated spring for you. The part number for the spring you'd want is 1165-20B."
Looks like I have a another winter project!
I put the 465-1148 on my Drifter 800. I noticed after some time there were marks on the suspension arm where the front-bottom of the shock had impacted it a few times. I could see how this could happen if the rear tire bounced off the ground. So I actually took my suspension arm off (the next time I was doing tire maintenance) and ground out about 1/8" of the suspension arm where the shock was hitting. I haven't had that problem since.
There's some dirt roads I travel on from time-to-time so things can get a bit bouncy for me and I'm sure this is what caused it, but I'd bet if you're staying on smooth roads you won't see this problem.
I can tell you, it stiffens the back end right up and handles much better, however, I also did the progressive fork springs at the same time too.
It's a good-lookin' shock, too bad it ends up hidden under there.... ;)
Looks like the 465 is on sale right now. $368
http://www.jcmotors.com/p-18434-progressive-suspension-465-series-rear-shock-kawasaki-vn800-vulcanclassicdrifter-motorcyc.aspx (http://www.jcmotors.com/p-18434-progressive-suspension-465-series-rear-shock-kawasaki-vn800-vulcanclassicdrifter-motorcyc.aspx)
Hey TripWire & Angstrom, I think I'm going to buy the 465 tomorrow. I'm about 250lbs. and wonder if it will work for me. Are you guys close to my weight and are you happy with the purchase? Is there any adjustments on the shock besides tightening up the spring? Also, anybody know what needs taken off to replace the shock? ??? Thanks, Jim