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Can I put any type of shocks in the rear of my vs1400

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2024 5:33 am
by Chadr320
Hello just need some advice. I have a 1997 intruder 1400 and the rear shocks are bad I can tell because they don't bounce anymore and I can feel it bottom out. Does it matter what kind of shocks I put on it. I have never bought shocks before so I have no idea what to buy.

Re: Can I put any type of shocks in the rear of my vs1400

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2024 6:29 am
by Designer
Some Riders like Progressive Shocks. My first upgrade was to go with Koni's.....then moved up to Works Shocks

Re: Can I put any type of shocks in the rear of my vs1400

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2024 6:58 am
by sgtcall
Chadr320 wrote:
Sun Apr 14, 2024 5:33 am
Hello just need some advice. I have a 1997 intruder 1400 and the rear shocks are bad I can tell because they don't bounce anymore and I can feel it bottom out. Does it matter what kind of shocks I put on it. I have never bought shocks before so I have no idea what to buy.

Welcome!

As long as they fit you can use any shock you like. I think the OEM shocks are 13 or 13 and a 1/4 inch but some guys have gone down to 11 and a 1/2, just depends on the look you are going for.

Here are a couple of things to check out.

INTRUDER MANUALS AND INFORMATION
viewtopic.php?f=19&t=14168

POSTING PICTURES ON INTRUDERS ALERT
viewtopic.php?f=19&t=13992

Re: Can I put any type of shocks in the rear of my vs1400

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2024 7:40 am
by navigator
I like the Progressive 412's, your stock length is 13"
Unless you often ride 2up or haul a lot of luggage the standard rate is fine. Heavy duty gives a stiffer ride, but both are adjustable to tune for your expected weight.
Fork springs are also good for improving handling.

https://www.progressivesuspension.com/p ... ies-shocks

Re: Can I put any type of shocks in the rear of my vs1400

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2024 8:21 am
by azazelakira
Following!

Re: Can I put any type of shocks in the rear of my vs1400

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2024 2:48 pm
by hillsy v2
You need to have shocks that can take the weight of the bike. You will see cheap Chinese shocks on eBay that say they fit your bike - and they may fit - but the spring rate and damping is all wrong and it's a waste of money. So, in short, you can't just put on "any" shocks that fit.

Something like Sportster 1200 shocks would be an OK option if you are on a budget. Both bikes have a similar weight and there is (obviously) a better aftermarket for them which means there are a number of different lengths available. I think stock they are around 11.5 inches so if you were also looking at lowering the bike this is an easy option.