I'm getting tired of tippy-toeing around on my 07 TE450 (I'm actually tired of tippy-toeing around on almost any full sized bike). But I was wondering if anybody knows of anyone out there that might manufacture shock links that will bring the bike down about an inch. I figure if I drop the front end and the back both an inch, it would help me. I don't want to go too low and lose ground clearance. But an inch would be good.
I'm not a big fan of lowering links because the change suspension geometry. Most suspension shops can lower the ride height by installing spacers (limiters) in the forks and shocks.
The forks can be slipped up in the stanchions an inch without bottoming. I could install a spacer between the piston and bumper on the shaft, but I like the idea of the links. I've seen them successfully installed on other brands of bikes and like the idea that they can be easily accessed without shock removal or disassembly. I don't know if a one inch drop will significantly change the lever ratio on the linkage.
It's not so much the lever ratio as it is the rate of compression, I'm not saying that they don't work and in some cases they may actually improve ride quality or handling but I have also seen people hugely disappointed after installing them.
lowering if you combine the link with cutting the subframe 15mm or so, and a slight trim of the seat foam you can shorten it up about 65 mm. you would want to have somebody revalve the shock to work with the link if you are a A or fast b rider IMHO... the link does change things up quite a bit.
Thanks to you guys for all the input. I think I have enough information to get the bike a bit lower now.
I've got a Kouba HL-2 1.5" link with maybe 100 miles on it that will fit your bike. I don't need it. It's yours for $85. including shipping. PM me.
I have fitted the Kouba 1.5 link and have been very happy with it. Very easy to install, doesn't cost alot, and you can keep it when you sell the bike. If you are an enduro god you may notice the geometery differences, but I can't tell.