HD doesn't seem to make it easy to find out what weight oil they use in the forks of my 2008 1200C. I want to try a lighter wt oil to see if I can make the front forks more compliant over bumps.

Anyone know?

Thanks.

 

According to Amsoil , Harley type E fluid is comparable to 10wt fork oil.
The next weight down is usually 7wt or 7.5wt.
I recently picked up some BelRay 7wt which I'm going to try in my 48.
If you're a big guy , 10wt might be about best , but 7wt would be worth a try.
Generally 5wt will cause a bounce with standard dampers for most riders.
If you have never serviced the forks , anything might work well , as they usually have metal and gunk from the initial break in miles.
I used screamin eagle fork oil in my Ultra a couple years ago as a quick way to slow down fork dive on very hard braking , the SE was suppose to be equal to 15wt.
Mick

 

I heard the recommended weight is Bel Ray 15. I'm getting ready to do mine, so interested in what others say.


John

 

This argument is about to be settled for good...

The front fork fluid is a proprietary formula that honestly is not 100% matched outside of Harley Type E. The closest viscosity specs would be approximately a 7.5W fork oil.

You will never be satisfied with the damping rod forks. They utilize orifice flow, which is a compromise. Heavier fork oil will give you less dive, but it will be a harsher ride. Lighter oil will induce more dive, but will give you a smoother ride.

 

That may explain why I have been running BelRay 7w and am happy with it. About 15,000 miles now. I have a new bottle ready on the shelf.

 

 

I have used 5 and 7 and am going to 10 as front dive is still a big problem.
I am also trying 10 wt Amsoil Shock therapy with ATF with transmission fluid with seal fix in the rear shocks (as I have a leak), Their Showa's 13" air adjustable so I can swap out the fluids at will. see:
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...oday-pics.html
and
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/searc...rchid=26231741

Any real riders will want to take note as the ride is vastly, vastly improved with Shoaw's, the absolute best $50 I ever spent.

.

 

I use ATF and I like front end dive. .puts more traction on the front brake/wheel.
also handy to "bounce" the front end to get started backing up.

 

I went from Bel Ray 10 to 15 and find the ride a bit harsh (170 lb). I have Progressive springs up front and took 1/4 inch off the pre-load when I went from 10 to 15.

I'm going back to 10 weight and am going to add 1/2 inch pre-load.

 

Good to know, I weigh 170.

John