Debating Harley-Davidson Shock Upgrades
Looking to improve the ride quality on your Harley-Davidson? Here are some tried and tested member tips!
Ride quality might not matter all that much to you. If your typical jaunts involve short blasts around town, that is. Otherwise, we’re guessing that a smooth and comfy ride is pretty important. Especially for those of us who aren’t young and invincible like we used to be. If so, finding the best shocks for your Harley-Davidson is probably pretty high on your to-do list. And that very thought is what drove HD Forums member DBLX to seek advice ahead of swapping out the shocks on his Harley-Davidson.
“I’m thinking about swapping my rear air shocks for the HD premium shocks. What are your thoughts and experience? I know there are probably better shocks than the HD shocks. In general, is this an improvement over the air? I think so, but would love to hear all opinions.”
As you might imagine, the general consensus is pretty clear.
“HD Premium shocks, while nothing to write home about, are much better than the old stock air shocks (what isn’t?). That said, I will be replacing the premium shocks on my new CVO as soon as it arrives with my rebuilt Ohlin 3-3s,” says PFWiz.
“Just stay away from the 12” as they’re not much better than the air. Less travel = rougher ride.
Lots of conflicting ways on how to adjust them. I always thought the **** was a gas valve to adjust how fast rebound was. But they’re nothing but a fancy way to stiffen/soften the spring. So unless you weigh 300+ pounds, set them as loose as possible, which is without any slop (about one turn). If you go by the book you wont like the results. If you’re under 200 pounds, I would suggest not even considering them,” adds Just Me.
Likewise, skydude426 noticed a huge difference between the two Harley-Davidson shock options.
“I replaced the stock 13″ air shocks on my 2012 Ultra with 12” HD premium shocks I bought at a big discount on eBay. The difference is night and day. I’ve found it’s all in the adjustment. If I went with the factory suggested adjustment for my weight, the shocks were too stiff. You have to go for a ride with your left bag off so you can easily stop and make an adjustment.
Once I found the sweet spot for riding solo and with my wife on board, I love them and so does my wife. I’m sure there’s better aftermarket shocks out there, no doubt. For the money spent, I’m very happy with the HD premiums. I personally don’t agree with those who say the 12″ premiums are no better than the stock air shocks. That hasn’t been my experience at all.”
But others, like EasTexUltra12, don’t feel like the improvement in ride quality is worth it.
“The ride is better with the premium shocks, but not worth the hassle IMO. If I had it to do over again, I either wouldn’t bother, or I’d go with another option. Adjusting the OEM shocks to account for a passenger and/or luggage was pretty simple. Add or subtract air. Premium shocks are a PITA to adjust. You’ve got to take the left saddle bag off to turn the ****.”
And as grbrown correctly notes, whether you ride solo or with a +1 can make all the difference.
“A feature of the umpteen shocks threads around HDF is that few members tell us if they ride solo or 2-up! If you ride only or mainly solo, there are plenty of shocks out there that will be better than stock air shocks. If Mrs. DBLX rides with you, the rules change. That is because she sits right over the shocks and gets a different riding experience back there. Also, many shocks cannot deal with the additional load (no offense intended!). If you want her to be comfortable, the choice of decent shocks is much shorter.”
All of which are great points. But we’re curious to see what you think! So head over here and chime in with your own opinion or personal experience with various Harley-Davidson shocks. You never know, you might just help someone else avoid a costly mistake!
