Suspension Shocks Issue Resolved

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Sep 26, 2016 | 03:22 PM

#21

FNGonaRK

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Sep 2010

Posts: 11,730

Likes: 9,163

From: Georgia

Quote:

Originally Posted by Magnut1

I upgraded my King to some take off premium hand adjustable shocks , 12" from a SGS, and I bought a new HD premium ride (low) front spring set up. Made a world of difference. I paid $200 for the rear and I think $90 for the front. Did the work myself.
So yeah, the air shocks suck big time.

If anyone else would like to do this to the rear of theirs, PM me. I have a set of 12" SGS shocks with less than 5K miles on them. They are in like new condition. $200+ shipping.

Sep 27, 2016 | 03:00 PM

#22

RedRider0151

Tourer

Joined: Jun 2013

Posts: 428

Likes: 153

From: Raleigh NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by oakmossy

i can understand better that the back shocks will make a difference. But I cannot buy that the fronts make that big a difference. Can you describe the difference in the front suspension.

For rider comfort you are correct, the back shocks are the majority of difference, however for performance, its literally all in the front end. All the rode feel, chatter, the ability to soak up bumps and still perform while the bike is at lean....this is ALL done by the front end. THe Harley front end is the simplest design on the market....getting a proper front end, adjusting your sag, getting the damping correct...these all make a HUGE difference in ride feel and performance.....way more so than the difference than changing the back did for comfort....as you will immediately notice the difference in a turn even with the slightest adjustment on the front end...the stock truly are that bad. If you are just pludging away on the highway its may be no big deal to you, but if you are on the old back road twistys, changing out the front will be a MAJOR adjustment to your confidence level and the level of your riding.

Sep 28, 2016 | 09:01 PM

#23

MrHd1

Tourer

Joined: Aug 2007

Posts: 452

Likes: 2

From:

Musta come and gone. Just checked. Best price on EBay. Would rather order from Amazon.

Sep 28, 2016 | 09:18 PM

#24

TSheff

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Feb 2013

Posts: 11,323

Likes: 3,661

From: SE Texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by oakmossy

i can understand better that the back shocks will make a difference. But I cannot buy that the fronts make that big a difference. Can you describe the difference in the front suspension.

Front suspension, Mine (Legend AXEO) are slightly stiffer (I set it that way) than the mushy stock, but they glide over potholes, cattle guards, and rumble strips. The biggest difference is going into and coming out of corners with a firm positive traction feel and not the stock uncertain spongy feel.
Yea I forgot no more drastic front end dive when braking.

Sep 29, 2016 | 10:04 AM

#25

KumaRide

Grand HDF Member

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 4,624

Likes: 189

From: Newcastle, Ca.

The other HUGE advantage of upgrading front suspension with proper spring rate is the increased lean angle as the front suspension does not compress nearly as much. Installed race tech 1.0 springs, and the front stays nicely planted and does not compress to extremes like stock springs. I remember taking the first couple turns at speed after the upgrade, and could not believe how high the front stayed up. If you ride the twisties spirited, this is a must do.