DragBikeMike wrote on 10/05/23 at 10:42:34:

The "standard" riding position completely transforms the bike. Finally, my 6'-2" frame fits on it comfortably. Having the feeling of more control has me riding it a little harder, and the suspension is showing its limitations now.

Those of you who have done the mid-controls conversion know the stock belt cover no longer fits. I didn't want to cut up the stock one, so---

zipidachimp wrote on 10/08/23 at 12:02:30:

Yes, everything about it is better. I'd still like to improve the suspension and sharpen the turning. Looking at some Progressive 412 11.5" shocks. They'll probably finish off whatever money I allocated to his project, so although I'd like an 18" in the front, it's probably not in the cards.

I put some 11 1/2 inch progressive shocks on. Much less truck like steering. I have a sprung bobber 13in wide seat . My butt really likes it.  Got a whole bobber kit from Blue Collar Bobbers. I even put floor boards on it for more foot positions. A few years ago I replaced both knees so the floorboards give more options to squirm around with.

I weigh 220lbs.  got 115-155 spring rate. Preload set on one step down from full stiff. #412-4201c. Stiffer is not better with such a light bike. Weights about 330lbs with bobber kit.

Thanks for the input on suspension mods, guys. Very useful!

Nice job, Bob. I recently semi-decruizerized my new-to-me 2007 s40. Key changes included:

- slightly taller 140/90/15 tire on the back
- 12.5" Drag Specialties rear shocks (purportedly made by Progressive, but cheeeeper)
- Dyna muffler
- usual modifications to the belt protectors to accommodate the taller shocks

I followed the recommendations made in other threads for both the Dyna muffler fitment and the various adjustments to make the taller shocks fit. Muchas gracias to the forum for all that - super helpful.

I got a local muffler shop to get a 4" bit of 1.75" pipe to help connect the metric header pipe to the SAE Dyna muffler. The muffler shop kindly modified the 4" piece of pipe by putting a 10-degree bend in the middle, expanding one end to fit nicely over the header, and reducing the other end to fit inside the muffler. Took him about 15min and he refused to charge me! That never happens these days - it's a nice feeling, and very grateful future muffler customer.

Anyway the end result is a substantially altered geometry, much more like a standard motorcycle. I have not touched the seat or bars, but that may change as I ride the bike more.

Also have to add that with the Dyna muffler I don't really get those loud backfires I used to get with the stock muffler, and my feeling is the bike runs better. I have not altered the carb settings/jets at all from stock.

Cheers all!
Mike