Are you sure Ill be able to get them in straight without lifting the back end up? Thats my only concern

 

You could just use an automotive style floor jack to take a little bit of the weight off of the shocks without lifting the wheels off the ground. Might be easier and that's how I usually do it.

Also, I wouldn't wait too long to put new bolts in. If it's bent it's weak and if it breaks while riding the tire will bottom out in the fender and most likely cause you to wreck it.

 

For peace of mind, replace. Never compromise your safety. Failure of any critical fasteners may result in serious injury or death. Did I scare you enough lol...don't take short cuts...you're on a motorcycle.

Easy job to replace those bolts. Be sure to torque to spec.

 

That's my approach as well.

 

Come on man...It's like 50 out.

 

Like others said, the bolts are easy to replace without completely jacking up the bike. All you need to do is support the bike under the frame with a jack to take the weight off the bolts when you replace them and they will go right in. Just do one bolt at a time.

Also, be sure to get the proper hardware. I would recommend grade 8 bolts if it was me replacing them, just for added peace of mind. Don't get the cheap stuff because that could be disastrous.

 

I have been riding Harleys since 1960 and I have never seen a shock bolt break on one. It may have happened but I have never seen it. Has any one else ever seen a lower shock bolt break on a Harley??

 

I have never seen one break or come loose but you surely don't want to be the first...lol

 

Have seen only one shock bolt break in my life, not on a Harley.
Bushing hole was egged out and flexed bolt back and forth till it gave up.

Check the bushing hole while it's out, or it will happen again.

 

If I had any inclination one of my shock bolts was bent or compromised in any way; I'd replace them.

OP you may want to put a cotter pin in that rear axle nut.