Anyone have ohlin shocks on a 08 street glide, stock HD shocks are 12" the ohlins I can get a deal on are 115/8" wondering if a lower than stock length ohlin will be worth the swapout also wondering about scrapping my bags. Whats everyones advice is a 3/8" shorter shock length that big a deal and do you think I'll get a better ride with the shorter ohlin's.

 

Ohlins are probably the best shocks you can put on a motorcycle. Super adjustable and the highest quality.
With that said - if they're not designed for your bike you shouldn't touch em.
Even though the overall shock length is "only" 3/8" shorter, the travel at the very least is more then likely different.
Not to mention spring, compression, and damping rates.

 

The olhin part#HD540 shocks are designed for the h-d FLH class bikes & I'm always reading on the forum about folks that have lower their streetglides 1" in the rear so was think'n a 3/8" shorter than stock shock wouldn't be a problem. Anyone out there that have olins or shock advice please chime in.

 

I had a pair cut down 1 1/2 " by Phoenix Customs and I wasn't quite happy with the dampening: I am going to sell them... Went back to stock shocks with a bit heavier oil.

 

had them on an old dirtbike back in the 70"s didnt even know they still existed.shorter means stiffer it is a trade off it will handle better but ride much firmer if theyre not stiffer youll bottom out too much.

 

I wouldn't go under stock length, these bikes have little enough ground clearance as is. I believe Fastharley (Howard) said he will be able to get standard length Ohlins.