93 flhs front suspension
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,205
Likes: 18
From: SE Michigan
Lost the air assist feature on front forks of my '91 FLHS when I replaced my handlebars a couple of years ago. Without the air pressure the front OEM springs were sloppy and weak; slamming to bottom on the slightest bump. Had the Progressive "variable rate stock height" fork springs installed which really firmed up the front end just right; firm but responsive. Also got rid of the "bagger wobble" with the Glide Pro swingarm isolator/front motor mount kit and went to Custom Cycle S.S. cleave bearings to replace the OEM rubber crap on the inside of the swingarm. Tight, responsive, and now predictable suspension. No need to buy a post 2008 bagger to get tight suspension if you make these or similar changes IMHO.
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,898
From: Bedford UK
The air assist on my 1990 still works! Owned it from new. I keep around 15psi in it for solo and closer to 20psi for 2-up. I've never ridden it with no air, but would expect the ride to be very soft. Would be OK if you're very light, but fitting stronger springs is probably essential.
You could phone Progressive for their advice on a set of springs. They are an HDF sponsor, so might even offer a discount?
You could phone Progressive for their advice on a set of springs. They are an HDF sponsor, so might even offer a discount?
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,379
Likes: 226
Lost the air assist feature on front forks of my '91 FLHS when I replaced my handlebars a couple of years ago. Without the air pressure the front OEM springs were sloppy and weak; slamming to bottom on the slightest bump. Had the Progressive "variable rate stock height" fork springs installed which really firmed up the front end just right; firm but responsive. Also got rid of the "bagger wobble" with the Glide Pro swingarm isolator/front motor mount kit and went to Custom Cycle S.S. cleave bearings to replace the OEM rubber crap on the inside of the swingarm. Tight, responsive, and now predictable suspension. No need to buy a post 2008 bagger to get tight suspension if you make these or similar changes IMHO.
I've searched on google - is there a link for the Custom Cycle S.S. cleave bearings ?
to date and for the OP - I've also removed the entire wiring and plumbing for the air assist front end and installed progressinve springs with 20 wt oil and a pair of progressive shocks for the back, it has made a world of difference in the handleing.
I intend to install the glide pro system this winter , but would like to replace the cleave blocks at that time. Those bearings seem to be a good way to eliminate the worn out cleave blocks.
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,898
From: Bedford UK
I've searched on google - is there a link for the Custom Cycle S.S. cleave bearings ?
to date and for the OP - I've also removed the entire wiring and plumbing for the air assist front end and installed progressinve springs with 20 wt oil and a pair of progressive shocks for the back, it has made a world of difference in the handleing.
I intend to install the glide pro system this winter , but would like to replace the cleave blocks at that time. Those bearings seem to be a good way to eliminate the worn out cleave blocks.
to date and for the OP - I've also removed the entire wiring and plumbing for the air assist front end and installed progressinve springs with 20 wt oil and a pair of progressive shocks for the back, it has made a world of difference in the handleing.
I intend to install the glide pro system this winter , but would like to replace the cleave blocks at that time. Those bearings seem to be a good way to eliminate the worn out cleave blocks.
I have a True-Track Trackula kit on my 1990 Glide. Comes with bronze swingarm bushings, new mounting rubbers all round, plus rear stabilizer. Everything in one parcel. Original and best!
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 842
Likes: 47
From: New Hartford CT
I have the same on my '89. Along with new Progressive shocks and Progressive 'variable rate' fork springs, it tightened the suspension up considerably, with a corresponding increase in handling confidence. The ride is not quite as 'plush', as you might expect with stiffer suspension, but the improvement in handling is well worth it. The jury is still out on the Progressive shocks; I compromised there due to budget constraints. Next year I may take the plunge and invest in the Ohlins.
Last edited by rivercityslim; Sep 22, 2010 at 09:12 AM.
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,205
Likes: 18
From: SE Michigan
Cleave bearings...
I've searched on google - is there a link for the Custom Cycle S.S. cleave bearings ?
to date and for the OP - I've also removed the entire wiring and plumbing for the air assist front end and installed progressinve springs with 20 wt oil and a pair of progressive shocks for the back, it has made a world of difference in the handleing.
I intend to install the glide pro system this winter , but would like to replace the cleave blocks at that time. Those bearings seem to be a good way to eliminate the worn out cleave blocks.
to date and for the OP - I've also removed the entire wiring and plumbing for the air assist front end and installed progressinve springs with 20 wt oil and a pair of progressive shocks for the back, it has made a world of difference in the handleing.
I intend to install the glide pro system this winter , but would like to replace the cleave blocks at that time. Those bearings seem to be a good way to eliminate the worn out cleave blocks.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 2,379
Likes: 226
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 135
Likes: 0
From: NW FL
Hey, how's that look? The Road King nacelle? I've been thinking of doing that myself.