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I'm using their twin adjustable rear shocks (manufactured by Italian suspension specialists, Bitubo). They are reasonably priced and perform extremely well. I use the 13.5" (stock) length.
I read their performance shock tests before making my decision, and they could discern no difference between the Bitubo shocks and their highly regarded Pro Action shocks.
If you prefer to buy American go with Pro Action. If you want a bargan mid priced shock choose Bitubo.
I have been very happy with the Bitubos. Compression and rebound dampening are adjustable. My Road King rides and handles like a different bike with these shocks.
I think the most expensive that i have seen advertised are the Ohlins but they are the most adjustable at $1400 at Big Bear Choppers. Obviously if you want remote preload adjusters then it will be more and might be cheaper to grab a pair from Howard with all the bells and whistles...
I don't like Ohlins due to maintenance schedule, so started talking with Exit for a pair of compression/rebound and preload adjustable shocks with remote or piggy back reservoirs for a heavier bagger. Gave me a ballpark price of $1200, which isn't bad. My only experience with them are shocks for my Race quad which was equipped with long travel 3 way fully adjustable versions, those shocks allowed that quad to soak up everything!
I don't like Ohlins due to maintenance schedule....
Shocks are either maintainable or throw away when they are shot. With maintenance comes a schedule - or we can just wait until they need it. Ohlins are no different - except they provide remarkable ride quality. Ya takes ya choice!
I think the most expensive that i have seen advertised are the Ohlins but they are the most adjustable at $1400 at Big Bear Choppers. Obviously if you want remote preload adjusters then it will be more and might be cheaper to grab a pair from Howard with all the bells and whistles...
I don't like Ohlins due to maintenance schedule, so started talking with Exit for a pair of compression/rebound and preload adjustable shocks with remote or piggy back reservoirs for a heavier bagger. Gave me a ballpark price of $1200, which isn't bad. My only experience with them are shocks for my Race quad which was equipped with long travel 3 way fully adjustable versions, those shocks allowed that quad to soak up everything!
All shocks internals get dirty and worn over time. Exit also advertises "EXIT Shocks are fully serviceable for an endless life..." Its up to the owner if they want a shock performing as designed after years of usage.
Their bagger shocks have only preload and compression adjustments. Would they make a one-off rebound adjable shock for you?
Here the shocks are $1,100. If you decide to get them, please post a review. The more competition the better and having another American company make after market equipment is a bonus.
There are a lot of Ohlin fans and when I called the vendor he questioned me about the type of riding i do on my road king. I'm 220lbs and ride 50% solo and 50% two up with a tour pak. He suggested two sets of shocks...um, no
i went with HD Premium Adjustable shocks and am very happy with the purchase.
Are you keeping the bike forever? If yes, call Howard get Olins.
Regardless of which brand we buy, they can always be swapped over to a later model. AFAIK all the rubber-mount touring bikes use shocks which can be inter-changed, if the air system is dropped.
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