Would a newer set of stock air shocks be any better ( ride quality ), than my original 2004 air shocks? I can pick up a set of 2012's locally , for dirt cheap, if it was worth doing.

 

You don't want air shocks if you want a better ride.

 

There might be a marginal difference in a new set, because they are not worn out,but that would be about it. Those things are usually worn out after 10k miles , some less.

 

These stock shocks do a decent job for the intended purpose which is to provide dampening for riders from 125 pounds to half a ton.

You might search for changing the oil in the existing shocks as it does make quite a nice improvement indeed.


Are the aftermarket ones that much better ? Sure they are but not worth the money to me, I went that route before in my opinionated opinion the stockers have a much wider range of weight where they work fine, are stupid simple to adjust instantly and do the job.

Look in the Goldwing forums about these shocks, those guys rebuild them.

FWIW I went with synthetic ATF in mine and was happy. I do have a second pair waiting for amsoil shock therapy.

I removed the air line connector, clamped a steel rod in the vice to hang the shocks upside a couple days to drain and used a animal syringe to get the new fluid back in, total cost about 12 bucks.

 

I don't know-maybe I'm just old. I 've been riding my '06 w/stock rear shocks for 2 years,and those shocks would be the last thing I'd ever change on that bike. I rode my '93 Classic w/stock shocks for 10 years,never thought about changing them either.
Some of these younger guys suffering from the "princess and the pea" syndrome?

 

Air shocks are OK for the one up rider.

My limited bottomed out constantly when riding with a passenger.

I'd describe the ride more like princess and the pothole.

 

Some of us younger guys have ridden bikes other than Harley's and know better solutions exist.

 

If they are dirt cheap, I'd try them just to see and learn from. I like having data points for comparison.

I do not know if the newer shocks are rebuildable like the old ones are, or even Showa made.

 

It sounds like I might be better off just changing the oil in mine, and call it good.

 

The newer shocks allow for more air pressure and thus range.
Not sure that equates to weight or better dampening although I'm sure Harley will tell you they are light years ahead of the older stuff.

Grain of salt...