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 nce a technology-free zone, today’s motorcycle has become the host of endless modern electronic wizardry. Some bikes tend not to flaunt their tech prowess, while others like the GL1800 wear it proudly like a badge of transistorized honor. In fact, the modern day Honda Gold Wing is very likely the highest tech motorcycle ever produced. There are enough switches and gadgets on its gleaming dashboard to help even a commercial jet pilot feel at home. One of the standout elements of all of this digital dazzlement is a computer-controlled spring-preload adjustment for the rear suspension that even features two memory presets. In the real world that translates to the ability to dial in the rear suspension from the dashboard to achieve the perfect balance between performance and comfort and then being able to do it again, after the bike is loaded. Once set up, a simple push of a button selects the perfect preload and suspension sag for either loaded or unloaded conditions. It doesn’t get much cooler then that, or maybe it does. The folks over at Progressive Suspension founded the company in the Gold Wing market and have continued to stay way ahead of the technology curve. It didn’t take them too long to realize they could make a good thing much better and had soon developed the 460 Series rear shock for the GL1800. By integrating the existing electronic preload adjuster and adding additional preload adjustment and 16 positions of rebound adjustment, the 460 allows a rider to fine tune his suspension to near perfection. The state of the art 460 Series shock is constructed using a durable steel body and hard chrome shaft to reduce wear. Internals include a nitrogen charged damper, which eliminates cavitation and an o-ring backed piston for smooth and consistent movement. Naturally, the spring is a progressive rate unit and designed specifically for the needs of the Gold Wing. Two pre-load ranges allow for varied loading without impacting suspension performance and 16 positions of rebound adjustment allow the shock to be perfectly set up to the riders’ needs. A simple tool, included with the shock, allows the rider to easily make rebound changes. If your market includes the long distance riding and tech loving GL1800 enthusiasts, the Progressive Suspension 460 Series shock is worth checking out and makes an excellent off-season upgrade. Check with your Parts Unlimited rep for more information.  |
