How to Lower a Crotch Rocket's Height
The term “crotch rocket’ refers to high-performance motorcycles, whose riding position makes the rider appear to be hugging the bike, as opposed to “cruisers,” “choppers” and other motorcycles with a more relaxed riding position. Lowering the ride height on these motorcycles not only enhances the overall appearance to an extent, but the lower ride height also helps shorter riders mount and dismount the motorcycle and keep the motorcycle steady during stops with better ease.
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Instructions
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Turn the threaded collar on the shock absorber counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench to lower the rear shock absorber’s preload adjustment.
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Remove the existing linkage connecting the rear shock absorber to the rear swing arm with a lowering link. Raise the motorcycle’s rear wheels off the ground with a motorcycle jack and disconnect the shock absorber from the link to swap the link out.
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Lower the front end of the motorcycle to give it an equal ride height. Raise the front wheels off the ground with a motorcycle jack and loosen the bolts on the front forks with a socket wrench. Twist the front forks upward by hand until you achieve the desired ride height. Tighten the bolts with the socket wrench and lower the motorcycle to the ground.
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Remove excess padding from the motorcycle’s seat to achieve a lower rider height. This helps eliminate the “tip-toeing” effect that plagues shorter riders when the bike’s ride height is too high. You can also swap the stock seat for a shorter replacement from the motorcycle manufacturer or from an aftermarket provider.
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Tips & Warnings
Lowering your motorcycle not only affects the overall handling and steering attributes, but it also makes it more prone to dragging its lower chassis components in a turn. Ride your motorcycle carefully until you have become used to the new dynamics.
References
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