2012 RT - Two Up Riding - Shock Questions

[Indiana Ken]

OK, so I have put on a few pounds over the years. Here I sit at 67 yrs old. 6'2" and weigh 270. Constantly on a diet, and would love to get to 220 or below, but wishful thinking on my part.
My wife come in at around 180, (I learned along time ago to not ask specifics), so when riding two up, we are pushing (breaking?) the weight limits.

I don't feel we are bottoming out, but I have been reading the forum, and there seems to be benefits (handling, ride smoothness, etc.) to junk the OEM shocks, and replace.

Any general comments would be appreciated. Can I adjust (harden) the OEM shocks? If I replace, do I replace fronts and rear? Are Elka what I should buy? Recommended size? They are in the upper limit of my budget, and suggestions on something less expensive.

 

[quasi]

the 2012 rt front shocks can be adjusted. there is a spanner wrench in the tool kit under the seat, that is used. there are I believe 5 different notches that the adjustment ring can be set at. manual explains the procedure better than I can.

 

[Mazo EMS2]

Not sure the front shock adjustment will help you much of you're pushing the weight limit. If you stiffen it up in front, you'll likely make your ride a bit more harsh. You night wanna consider just upgrading the rear shock first.

 

[Bob Denman]

:agree: Stiffening -up the shocks; will make for a "firmer" ride... :shocked:
This is the balancing game being played by the designers of the bike, and there will always be folks who have different needs or ideas...
Take your shocks to their stiffest settings (front and rear). If you need more: you'll have to pop for aftermarket shocks. I would suggest calling Elka directly: they can set you up with what you need. :thumbup: