HD versus Standard Progressive Springs?

[JungleJustice]

This may be a forgone conclusion - since I have already ordered the rear coil-overs - however, I wanted to ask the question about the Progressive rear shocks and springs gor the ' 80 GS 1100 E any way;

The standard marketing blurbs all over the web indicates that one should select the "Heavy Duty" versions of the shocks for riders over 220 pounds or for two-up riding more than 40-50-60 percent of the time... I am 265 and 6'-3, so it would make sense, but I will likely never have anyone on the back (my girlfriend rides herself)! I just wanted to verify that this stipulation was not too "over-protectionist" - I just don't want to end up with an incorrect / heavy / too stiff a setup!?

I ordered Black/Black by the way!

[GS-ESW]

rear shocks for 1980 GS-1100-E

Howdy Jungle Justice, to confirm my choice of black/black Progressive Shocks, that you saw on my identical '80 GS-1100-E, I dug up my reciepts from Jan. of 2009. Progressive Suspension Part # PS1204BG 13.0" that is for the shock bodies. The spings are separate, part #DS310031 BLK with a load rating of 90/130. I am 200 lbs, and 6'2", and these feel perfect. I put them on the top (stiff) setting, and adjust the front fork dampers to "4" (stiff). The shocks cost $169.15, and the springs $69.25.
Good Luck, and smooth rollin'. GS-ESW

[bwringer]

Yes, you will want the heavy-duty springs, no question about it.

In fact, on my GS850G, I ended up switching to the extra-heavy-duty 120/170 springs -- they're listed under the Kawasaki Voyager.

With just me, they're perfect in the first position. Add another click for luggage, two clicks for the wife, three clicks for wife & luggage.

[TheCafeKid]

Yes, you will want the heavy-duty springs, no question about it.

In fact, on my GS850G, I ended up switching to the extra-heavy-duty 120/170 springs -- they're listed under the Kawasaki Voyager.

With just me, they're perfect in the first position. Add another click for luggage, two clicks for the wife, three clicks for wife & luggage.

Hey Bri, I just snagged a set of Progressives on Ebay (actually for a CB900F but I wanted that extra inch on em) and they came with 110/150s i think? You think that will be substantial enough for my fat arse, and roses skinny one? The MDIs i have on it now are simply BRUTAL, even with my weight. I like my bike sprung a little on the stiff side, but my kidnneys were PI$$ED..

[almarconi]

I'm 230 and have the heavy duty springs, I would not want anything lighter.

[TheCafeKid]

I'm 230 and have the heavy duty springs, I would not want anything lighter.

Damn i got you by 30 lbs... Guess I will purchase some HD springs when I have the cash to do so. Anyone have a spring compressor i can borrow? Cant complain too much tho, I snagged em for $35 plus shipping.. And they look damn nice

[almarconi]

I believe the 105/150's are the heavy duty springs, if you want heavier you will need the bwringer specials.

I wonder if some F350 (1 ton) front coils spring would work for you big guys

[TheCafeKid]

I believe the 105/150's are the heavy duty springs, if you want heavier you will need the bwringer specials.

I wonder if some F350 (1 ton) front coils spring would work for you big guys

Oh Ok, well good deal then...Thanks Al

[JungleJustice]

Thanks guys; sounds like I did right by going with the HD units!

Let's get together soon Eric! Next time you feel like it, or find yourself in the area - give me a heads-up and ride out to Shoreline (I'll show you some of the other toys...)