Intro & Lowering XJ 400

[Roamrider]

I couldn't find a particular place on the list for intros or if it's expected, customary, etc. I'm older, live in north central VA, and have owned two XJ 550's and an XJ 650 in the past. My wife and I currently own the several bikes you see on my list. I do wish I'd held on to at least one of the 550's. Those are fun bikes!

I just acquired an inexpensive '82 XJ 400 this weekend to have around as a UJM garage bike for the several friends of ours who want to learn to ride. I'm planning a lowering project which I assume will involve a shorter shock and dropping the triple clamps a bit. I've done this several times in the past on other bike models for my shorter wife. I spent a bit of time doing a forum search for specifics on shorter shock sizes and sources for this bike and didn't find anything specific. So I'm asking if anyone can point me in a direction for something.

Thanks for creating and maintaining a fine resource list.

Jeff

Fredericksburg, VA

[stevem]

Hello Jeff

I'm no expert but I do know a little about your lowering options.

Firstly you could think about cutting some foam out of that big bouncy seat! Not only can you lower it but it will NARROW the seat which is a large part of the problem when trying to get the ladies confident & comfortable.

With regard to the rear shocks I'd just carefully measure the distance between the mounting bolts then buy some shorter aftermarket shocks! Obviously you'll need to think about what model the shocks were intended for weight wise but most of the big part emporiums will be happy to help.

Dropping forks through the yolks is a tried and tested route as used by racers everywhere to tighten up the steering..Not really an issue for us!!! Its possible to go lower by stripping the forks and putting a spacer under the damper rod buts thats a bit involved... Good Luck

[drewpy]

to the YOC jeff