BMW R1150GS Lowering

[Yellowjacket]

... I looked for Wilber and they seem to have certain set lengths. I found Works Performance when I discovered on eBay some BMW lowered shocks for sale. They apparently have been making racing shocks for BMW "S" bikes and have expanded to other models. They asked for the desired height, rider weight, and passenger weight. There is a choice standard shocks or addition of a separate hydraulic unit which cost a few hundred more. I chose the standard shocks. Their engineer then calculate the dimensions for the shocks. These shocks are rebuildable later for about $100.

I started a thread at http://www.bmwbmw.org/bmwforums/viewtop ... highlight=

for the folks who have expressed interest in this project. The shocks should arrive in 2-3 weeks.

Works Performance is at:
http://www.worksperformance.com/html/bmw.html

I ordered the shocks from Works Performance:
-2 inches lower on the back shock
-1 1/2 inch shorter on the front shock.
-Also plan on getting seat shaved for more ergonomic fit for my shape.
-These mods should allow me to get the balls of my feet comfortably planted on the ground.
-Will be looking up the JVB Team for spontaneous tech services soon.
-Ok I waive my video rights.

[guitardad]

Just another thumbs up for Works Performance. I ordered a set of rear shocks from them for Hans, got the same questions about weight and intended use, and they picked the right springs for the job. Apparently they get their springs custom wound by another California shop. Anyway, the shocks arrived 2 weeks later. Now if I could just finish taking the bike apart, so I can start putting it back together!

[Dough Boy]

It would have a LOT cheaper if you'd tried the seat first.

[Yellowjacket]

It would have a LOT cheaper if you'd tried the seat first.

Belive me I would have liked to get away with just a seat modification. I did quite a bit of research involving sitting on the chassis in the low position.
Also tried a low seat on a R1200GS. It is finally simple math and physics that convinced me. By measuring so many inches from seat to the ground and so many inches that can be reduced by shaving off the seat. Yes I almost bought some platform boots (seriously) and conceptualize a temporary seat made of wood, rock straps, plastic bag, injection foam, and faux leather (ask me later). I also tried some bricks under my regular boots to measure the inches I needed to gain/reduce. In the end I decided on a combination of the shocks for conquering length (w. 30% preload) and a shaven seat (to Longo next) for some comfort. BTW the gas tank is currently only half filled and there is no passenger or tall bag plus guitar on the bike yet.

[RJP3579]

It would have a LOT cheaper if you'd tried the seat first.

Belive me I would have liked to get away with just a seat modification. I did quite a bit of research involving sitting on the chassis in the low position.
Also tried a low seat on a R1200GS. It is finally simple math and physics that convinced me. By measuring so many inches from seat to the ground and so many inches that can be reduced by shaving off the seat. Yes I almost bought some platform boots (seriously) and conceptualize a temporary seat made of wood, rock straps, plastic bag, injection foam, and faux leather (ask me later). I also tried some bricks under my regular boots to measure the inches I needed to gain/reduce. In the end I decided on a combination of the shocks for conquering length (w. 30% preload) and a shaven seat (to Longo next) for some comfort. BTW the gas tank is currently only half filled and there is no passenger or tall bag plus guitar on the bike yet.

By the time you get it all lowered and such, won't you basically have an R1150C???

This was my 1000th post...Woohooo! I am a Board Wizard now...call me Harry Potter of BMWBMW...

[Yellowjacket]

Hi HarryPotter: You are right. It sure smells like a R1200C in the making. I wished for a sixth gear to cruise on, and an articulated final drive. Hope this explains this exercise (madness). Gotta keep life interesting.

[Yellowjacket]

I called Works Performance today and the shocks should be shipping early next week. They apparently have lots of orders.

[Yellowjacket]

Called Works Performance today. They are still waiting for the custom springs and a jam nut. I am hoping all these parts in by mid-month.

[Yellowjacket]

I called Works again and there is no ETA on the spring. Has anyone ordered from other companies that makes custom shocks?

[Yellowjacket]

Chiba: Good thoughts. I am thinking that while some may not know the pejorative load that "jap" carry, there are still folks around us that find the term offensive. A little enlightenment or education may help. BTW the term "jap" or "kraut" can be heard in WW2 documentaries and interviews. Give it another fifty years, the term may even disappear completely from the English language.

[Yellowjacket]

The shocks are finally here.
Jim: How much time do you think it may take to replace the shocks?

[Hello Kitty]

Don't forget that you need to cut the side stand as well. And most likely the centerstand as well. With my sidestand, Walt just cut it at the base and welded a new "foot" on a little bigger than the original, which is nice.

The center stand just had a chunk taken out at a convenient spot and was welded back together. Make sure whoever is welding knows what they are doing and you will need to keep an eye on that weld for a little while to make sure it isn't showing signs of failing. That would suck.

Mark Sigley lowered his GS and didn't cut the sidestand. He had to be REALLY careful about where he parked and had more than one "incident" where the bike tipped over because it wasn't getting enough lean onto the sidestand.

It doesn't take much time to change the shocks if you have Jim helping you, couple/few hours.

[Yellowjacket]

Thanks for the reminder!

[Yellowjacket]

Jim: Do you happen to have welding equipment?

[Bicyclist]

Moses, it would be a good idea to remove the stands for welding. Arc welders can do nasty things to electronics.

Walt's idea to weld on a larger foot is a good one. Makes the stand less likely to sink into a soft surface.