Rear Shock Life Expectancy

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Jan 30, 2010 | 12:08 PM

russell6hp

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From: Wilmington, NC

Rear Shock Life Expectancy

What do you suppose is the average life span for the rear shocks on a Dyna, or is there a test? Can't really bounce it like you can with a car...

Jan 30, 2010 | 12:54 PM

grbrown

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From: Bedford UK

Harley shocks come into this world seriously disadvantaged with poor quality! So one part of me says they should be replaced straight away, while the scrooge in me will try to squeeze around 20k miles out of them. The main problem is that shocks deteriorate very slowly, until perhaps a seal fails when it is obvious they are shot. There are superior shocks out there waiting for your bucks!

Jan 30, 2010 | 04:57 PM

hell hound

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From: TEXAS

I have been wondering this too.

Jan 30, 2010 | 07:24 PM

seniorsuperglideE8

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From: along the shore of Mishigami

Replaced mine on my 02 around 15k miles with some Progressives. A lot of two riding that put more of a demand on the shocks. Michigan roads didn't help either.

Jan 30, 2010 | 08:54 PM

MZBuckeye

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From: Brunswick, OH

Quote:

Originally Posted by grbrown

Harley shocks come into this world seriously disadvantaged with poor quality! So one part of me says they should be replaced straight away

That's my thoughts exactly.

Jan 31, 2010 | 06:22 AM

grbrown

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From: Bedford UK

Quote:

Originally Posted by seniorsuperglideE8

A lot of two riding that put more of a demand on the shocks. Michigan roads didn't help either.

My wife and I shipped our Glide to Chicago in 2003 and took part in the Centenary celebrations, then travelled around. We found much the same on Michigan and Wisconsin roads. Been working ever since to improve the ride of my bike. Winter project is underway to fit Ohlins plus 2007 swingarm wheel etc. Michigan has had far reaching consequences!

Jan 31, 2010 | 10:16 AM

russell6hp

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From: Wilmington, NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by grbrown

So one part of me says they should be replaced straight away, while the scrooge in me will try to squeeze around 20k miles out of them.

We think along the same lines! I really want to switch to a stubby shock and lower the @$$ end, but can't justify the expense until what I currently have actually needs replacing. I am almost to 15k miles. I guess around 20K I will get serious. Thanks for the advice. At this point, not much sense in investing in lowering blocks if I'm just going to be switching to a shorter shock in a few months.