So, least expensive option for shocks to raise frame on a DNA / Softail Conversion

[JJR60616]

This is a Softail DNA Conversion. Softail parts to fit should be 89 to 99.

So, first pic is what this thing looked like when I got it.

It had 24 inch wheels... not my thing, so I took them off.

I went with 15 inch wheels, think I could or maybe should have gone for 16's or even 17's.

But have fenders already now.

Like what I have now, but the frame is sitting way too close to the ground.

And this thing has a nice rake to it with an extended front end.

Now I'm going to put the rear wheels up on ramps and do the adjustments, but given the shortcuts I've found when going through this, I would not be surprised to find its got used stock or even lowered shocks.

Plus note the scrapes on top of the axle housing, so its been this way before i got it.

So planning on new suspension if needed.

Would like to consider the least expensive option to raise the frame.

Dont want to spend 2K for a air ride system.

Am so cheapskate, considering just taking out the shocks and welding rod in and welding the swingarm for a "Hillbilly Hardtail"

But I'm not a kid , and I rarely ride hardtails anymore , unless its a local bar run or something.

Now on Softails, typically a "shorter" stiffer shock would actually be sufficient to hold stock height, but I'd like to raise it some.

And I guess I dont understand how an air ride system would help anyway, given its opposite of a typical shock system...longer = higher on a traditional shock system..

But Softails , shorter shock usually brings the angle in line for the swingarm.

And the DNA is at least 4 or 5 times the weight of the usual OEM Softail Rear so I'm in uncharted territory for my knowledge.

So, anyone can tell me what are good cheap options for "Raising" the profile of the bike/frame, more ground clearence?

Like would Progressive 422's do the trick? The Heavy Duty 422-4001C?

Or the Progressive Airtail Shocks? ( I think not, DNA is way heavier than OEM swingarm, and they make a point of mentioning OEM specs.)

Or something else I maybe have never heard of? (my knowledge of trikes is limited, learning as I go)

Thanks for any and all info and assistance!

[Marc H]

My flying blind thought is first you need to get the shock out of it and measure the eye to eye length.Your already looking at Progressive and they usually give the shock length for the bike so do that and also make sure the eyes are the same type and size.The shocks aren't holding up anything heavier on your bike than stock but what we don't know is if the attaching points are in stock position which would alter the ride height and needed spring strength.Hope some of this helps.

[JJR60616]

My flying blind thought is first you need to get the shock out of it and measure the eye to eye length.Your already looking at Progressive and they usually give the shock length for the bike so do that and also make sure the eyes are the same type and size.The shocks aren't holding up anything heavier on your bike than stock but what we don't know is if the attaching points are in stock position which would alter the ride height and needed spring strength.Hope some of this helps.

Yeah, thats my next move, to see what I'm dealing with...

Spent all day replacing and fixing the fuel systems... no fuel filter on this, and the manifold was shot, gaskets chewed up

because installed wrong, and carb hanging with no brace etc...also it ran but the old carb was spitting gas out overflow, so rather than beat it up to get the float loose, had a new CV sitting around.

Thing runs like a bear now... 95ci Kit, cam etc...

So hoping when I get under this thing that I find Progressive 422's adjusted wrong, or something good enough that I can upgrade on the cheap by putting LA Choppers Heavy Duty (Gray) Replacement Springs in it.

Also need to slide the axle forward slightly, the chain is tight, and need to get a little bit of slack in it.

Hoping maybe that will lift it a touch also.

Anyway, thanks for the reply!