After reassembling my bike and riding it for about 3wks with just the hardtail struts the PO had put on her, I was getting used to the ride and I learned where all the major and minor potholes were on the ride back and forth to work.
This weekend, I finally put on some stock shocks that I picked up from another member here, and let me tell you that made a WORLD of difference in the ride
My teeth don't rattle riding down the city streets, and the bike feels much more stable on the highway than it did with the struts. This is all with the shocks set on the stiffest setting while I only weigh about 180# with all my gear.
For anyone considering switching to hardtail struts, make sure you add a spring seat or something because otherwise you will be taking a beating.
I thought riding this bike was fun before, now I'm looking forward to taking some longer rides and even carrying a passenger.