Rear shocks ?
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Joined: Feb 2018
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From: Indiana
Rear shocks ?
Im looking to swap rear suspension on a 2015 FXDL...Can anyone attest to ride quality of 13" or 14" aftermarket shock brands ? Looking to purchase a set, I have read varying reviews per usual. Just got the bike back, waiting on 3 more pieces to come in and would like any and all input on shocks. I do not plan to spend 1k or more, more like $650 to $700 range tops. Opine away.
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From: NW Ohio
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Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 68
Likes: 2
From: Indiana
Thank you for legit first hand feedback. Can you tell a difference though in how the bike feels and handles? I've thought about ohlins as that's what was on my Triumph and seems to be middle of the road cost.
Cruiser
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 135
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From: Mendocino, Ca.
Hi Sturat, the bike just feels more solid, less loose in the turns. Not as cushy as stock. I like that. As many others have said- put good shocks on and you will really notice how crappy the front suspension is.
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From: NW Ohio
Lots of us running Ohlins of various flavors. Probably second most popular after Progressive around here.
To stay in your budget with Ohlins I think you'll have to give up the adjustability features.
To stay in your budget with Ohlins I think you'll have to give up the adjustability features.
I'm sure I'll be sent to purgatory for this, but I recently changed the stock shocks on my 2017 Street Bob, for Drag Specialties 12" chrome shocks for $200 (1310-0641).
DRAG SPECIALTIES SHOCK ABSORBERS
http://www.dragspecialties.com/produ...oductId=248538
I probably would have left the stock shocks there if I hadn't bottomed out on a few rides. My main requirement is that the springs be Progressive (made by them, to Drag Specialties' spec), even if not their brand, and that the price be reasonable.
After a couple months comparing price, function, and my requirements, I decided on those shocks. 1K miles later I'm happy I went in that direction.
My plan, from the day I bought the bike, was to spend only what I had to, to meet any requirements I might have. To avoid overspending, so I could continue to save for my bagger in a couple years.
Interesting thread.
DRAG SPECIALTIES SHOCK ABSORBERS
http://www.dragspecialties.com/produ...oductId=248538
- Shock bodies are steel construction with multi-stage velocity-sensitive hydraulic dampers
- Feature progressive rate springs that provide a softer initial response, but resist bottoming better than stock springs
- Improved damping rates for a more comfortable and controlled ride
- 5-position adjustable spring pre-load (adjusting tool included)
- Chrome-plated or black covers and springs for style
- Custom lengths available for stock ride height or a lowered, custom look
- Manufactured to Drag Specialties specifications by Progressive Suspension
- Sold in pairs
- TüV approved
- Made in the U.S.A.
I probably would have left the stock shocks there if I hadn't bottomed out on a few rides. My main requirement is that the springs be Progressive (made by them, to Drag Specialties' spec), even if not their brand, and that the price be reasonable.
After a couple months comparing price, function, and my requirements, I decided on those shocks. 1K miles later I'm happy I went in that direction.
My plan, from the day I bought the bike, was to spend only what I had to, to meet any requirements I might have. To avoid overspending, so I could continue to save for my bagger in a couple years.
Interesting thread.
Last edited by donmontalvo; Feb 28, 2018 at 09:04 PM.
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From: NW Ohio
I don't disagree...and would add brakes to the list... but not everybody can spend $3-6k on suspension.
Tourer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 290
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From: Portland Oregon
If you are looking for a bit smoother "ride quality" than Stock and don't mind lowering the rear a little... try a Inexpensive Lowering Kit for Dynas.
(They can be purchased on Ebay for under $40 Including Shipping)
It Relocates the bottom of your shock Back about an Inch, which Lowers the rear (seat height) about 11/2"-2".
I have used these Numerous times on different bikes and it seems to me to really smooth out the ride.
As an Example... I purchased a New 2017 RGS in March 2017 without Test Riding it... on my first ride on that bike it felt like I was riding a Rigid Framed bike. Roughest Stock Harley I have ever ridden.
I installed one these Rear Lowering Kits on That Bike and it made it Ride WAY BETTER, I was Very Surprised how much smoother it rode after that. (sold that bike anyway though, baggers just aren't my way of riding)
(They can be purchased on Ebay for under $40 Including Shipping)
It Relocates the bottom of your shock Back about an Inch, which Lowers the rear (seat height) about 11/2"-2".
I have used these Numerous times on different bikes and it seems to me to really smooth out the ride.
As an Example... I purchased a New 2017 RGS in March 2017 without Test Riding it... on my first ride on that bike it felt like I was riding a Rigid Framed bike. Roughest Stock Harley I have ever ridden.
I installed one these Rear Lowering Kits on That Bike and it made it Ride WAY BETTER, I was Very Surprised how much smoother it rode after that. (sold that bike anyway though, baggers just aren't my way of riding)