I currently ride an 04 Dyna Lowrider. I have a very bad back from a earlier bike accident and the arthritis gets so bad in the middle of my back and lower back where the fractures were that even the slightest road bump can cause a bad jarring pain.

I have rode some new 2010 and 11 and 12 Dyna's and they seem quite a bit smoother ride and better on my back. I have tried different shock/spring tension positions but seems 3 is about the best all around for one up and my 240 pound body. I also spent $200 to have my seat double decker foam modification.

Will newer model Harley shocks, progressive 440's, any ideas that will help over the stock ones to soften the back jarring?

 

I had an 04 dyna lowrider that i got rid of for a 2005 Heritage . Much better on the back. I then traded the heritage for a 2011 Street bob. I need new handlebars and risers but over all the bike is excellent. I feel if I get better fitting bars my back pain will completely go away. I had a severe back injury when I was 19 . the 2011 streetbob is overall the best bike Ive had . I would buy a newer heritage for long road trips if I could afford it but I needed a lighter more nimble bike. If you have the cash might be a good time to trade in . Lots of really cool options and in my opinion only the new bikes (dynas included) ride much better. If you do get a newer dyna dont slam it with low shocks or it will ride harsh again. you might find a great deal on a 2011 before they are all gone. Good luck.

that 2004 lowrider was a cool bike but man it about broke my back. rode like a brick.

 

if you do decide to keep the lowrider get the best suspension you can afford.

 

Get some apes... I found the stock bars on mine caused me to ride in a hunched position which was causing me back pain...

 

I agree 100%!

 

Sundowner seat and 12" apes changed my ride position and helps with my back.

 

As suggested by several above, not only is suspension important but the right seat and bars can make a huge difference as well. You might also want to look at your feet placement. Perhaps forward controls, or highway pegs and maybe even floorboards might be a better fit for you.

 

Good advice on bars and controls. The easiest way to get harshness out of the rear is to go with longer shocks, even 1/2" will make a difference. I had the 440's but found them too stiff, my current Ohlins are way more forgiving.

 

Just check did you have to change cables or wiring to install the 12" apes?

 

Thanks guys, I do have wide glide mini apes and forward controls I put on. I agree that maybe a new one is the way to go. I've been thinking of trading anyway for a softtail. MIssedem, I had a car run over my back on the highway and was in a wheel chair for a little over a year back in 1975, I happened to be 19 also. Sorry to hear about your back injury also.