Headers or shocks
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 5,063
Likes: 2,582
From: On my bike!
I vote shocks as well, but keep in mind, just any set of aftermarket shocks is not what I mean, the difference between a $499 set and a high quality $899 set will be huge, if $899 is not in the budget then I would personally save up the extra and buy right the first time. As far as a header, a decatted stock header will perform just fine on a stage 2 or less M8, go above stage 2 then I would spend the money on a header.
Club Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 1,689
Likes: 457
I vote shocks as well, but keep in mind, just any set of aftermarket shocks is not what I mean, the difference between a $499 set and a high quality $899 set will be huge, if $899 is not in the budget then I would personally save up the extra and buy right the first time. As far as a header, a decatted stock header will perform just fine on a stage 2 or less M8, go above stage 2 then I would spend the money on a header.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 547
Likes: 389
From: PNW
FYI....I ordered a set of Super Shox 4 weeks ago (thru my HD dealer) and still waiting for them. Seems like Super Shox is taking a very long time to build them.
Incidentally, I live about 8 miles from where Super Shox are built but my HD dealer (who's also close-by) gave me a discount, so I ordered from my dealer instead of directly through the factory.........just think 4 weeks is a long time to wait...my HD dealer agrees.
Incidentally, I live about 8 miles from where Super Shox are built but my HD dealer (who's also close-by) gave me a discount, so I ordered from my dealer instead of directly through the factory.........just think 4 weeks is a long time to wait...my HD dealer agrees.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 504
Likes: 271
From: Anywhere, USA
I've already added the DK Customs 606 air cleaner, Rinehart DBX40 slipons and FP3. Now I'm looking at adding either the Rinehart Slimline Duals or a new set of shocks (haven't made up my mind between Legends or Super Shoxs). So which is the better bang for the buck at this point, headers or the shocks? Thanks
The Ohlin's are $75.00 more, a no brainer. They are tight on the road.
The bike will be faster with new shocks because you will ride much more aggressively. The shocks are huge.
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 668
Likes: 246
From: San Diego, CA.
I vote shocks as well, but keep in mind, just any set of aftermarket shocks is not what I mean, the difference between a $499 set and a high quality $899 set will be huge, if $899 is not in the budget then I would personally save up the extra and buy right the first time. As far as a header, a decatted stock header will perform just fine on a stage 2 or less M8, go above stage 2 then I would spend the money on a header.
In all honesty and fairness, at the same time, I had progressive front fork cartridges installed in the front suspension - results = wow!
I spent about $500 at the time, on that set of Bitubo shocks, which were built to my specs……The Bitubos can be had from several retailers, but forum sponsor DK Customs currently offers them, built to your specs at $550…….Italian Racing shocks that, in my humble opinion, give all other shocks a run for their money…..DK Customs has a bunch of shock testing and shootout type data, and bang for the buck, the Bitubos won…….food for thought…..
Last edited by HM_SanDiego; Feb 22, 2022 at 04:48 PM.
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 668
Likes: 246
From: San Diego, CA.
I really believe the Bitubo shocks are one of, if not the best bang for your buck. You can spend more, but in my humble opinion, you dont need to, unless you simply just have to have brand X shocks.
I just got my Ultra, and have not ridden much yet, with all of our spring rain and cold, but when I upgrade the suspension, I will most likely order a set of Bitubos.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 2,109
Likes: 456
From: The Great Midwest
go with shocks, youll be glad you did
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2020
Posts: 8,140
Likes: 9,546
From: central NC
A set a Bitubos from DK Custom for $550 shipped, and a de-catted head pipe for the price of exhaust gaskets and a couple of drill bits, (and some labor on my part), oh, and a tuner.
Smooth and cool riding for summer 2022.
Smooth and cool riding for summer 2022.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 14,143
Likes: 11,214
From: San Diego, CA
I'd like to say the older I get, the more I care about comfort over sound and performance....
But alas, I have the sickness.........
But hey, I put Ohlins on my bagger.... well, after the crate engine....
But alas, I have the sickness.........
But hey, I put Ohlins on my bagger.... well, after the crate engine....
