Hello,
I just bought a 2000 Drifter 800 (8600 miles), and one of the first things I noticed was that it seems to ride extremely low. I find myself dragging the foot boards during moderately sharp turns, and when resting on its side stand I fear a stiff wild will knock it over. Also the suspension seems overall to be soft and squishy. I've read on this site how the rear monoshock can be adjusted, but after locating it I discovered that it's already at its firmest setting (setting #7).
Aside from replacing the rear monoshock (they cost close to $500!!) is there anything I can do to stiffen the ride and raise the ride height?
Sounds like it has a lowering kit installed. 800s are taller than 1500s..
I wonder if someone has put a lowering kit on there? If I understand, on the sidestand, it must barely tilt to the left, not enough to be "stable"?? (per your comment about blowing over) If someone lowered it and did not shorten the stand, it would look like that.
I do not have, nor have seen, a lowering kit installed - but maybe someone that has one can tell you what to look for???
(((((Troll beat me to the post, but I'm posting anyway))))))
Calling Driftingirl and Mike her mechanic they installed a lowering kit on her 800, his is still normal, so they will be able to tell you, I'll pm them to get them started on that.
Replacing the mono shock, which I did last winter did not raise the bike any, but it sure made a huge difference in the ride.
They say a picture is worth a 1000 words. If you could post a pic it would save everyone shortening their finger tips.
Are there two approx. 2 inch wide bars showing slightly below the rest of the bottom? There are various kits so seeing is the easiest way. The foot stand is a give-away.
You may also have a lowering kit in the front but we can get to that later.
Don't throw anything away...there will be a buyer waiting!
:) are you looking to lower your ride now Stumpy? The Missus bike easier to get on and off of?
No....LOL
I don't need a lowering kit but everyone with an inseam of 30"or less should consider a trade for this one...or just buying if from the guy above. And there are different setting, front and rear, with Driftin'Girl's lowering kit. Her's had 1", 2" and a 3" lowering capablities on the front and rear.
When you see my BMW you'll see what disaster a too tall bike combined with short legs can cause !!
I have a 30" inseam, and have no issues with the 800, and even better since I re did the seat and have it made to fit me. I would post pictures of my getting it right but PC might get offended and I am trying so hard to be nice to him.
Now don't you go and blame your good behavior on me!