Does a RKC ride like other baggers?
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Tourer
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 494
Likes: 0
From: Dallas, Texas
Does a RKC ride like other baggers?
I'm currently on a 08 SG, but have decided that what i really want is a RKC. One of the reasons for buying a bagger was the suspension and comfortable ride since i've got a bad back. Does a RKC ride like all other baggers, comfort wise or am i going to be giving up good suspension for a trade? I'm assuming it's the same, but i'd like to just be safe and get opinions.
I plan on renting to ultimately get a feel, but i want to do my homework before i take the plunge. Also, does a lowering suspension ride the same as well or is it a firmer ride?
thanks so much
I plan on renting to ultimately get a feel, but i want to do my homework before i take the plunge. Also, does a lowering suspension ride the same as well or is it a firmer ride?
thanks so much
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 8,051
Likes: 50
From: Florence, MT (Bitterroot Valley)
You'll find it rides better than the Street Glide. Primarily because of the additional travel in the rear suspension. Go for a test ride, or rent one for 1/2 day so you know for sure it's what you really want. Probably some folks out there that would be willing to make the trade with you as there are many that want to go to the SG.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 715
Likes: 1
You'll find it rides better than the Street Glide. Primarily because of the additional travel in the rear suspension. Go for a test ride, or rent one for 1/2 day so you know for sure it's what you really want. Probably some folks out there that would be willing to make the trade with you as there are many that want to go to the SG.
Best of luck.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 3,351
Likes: 1,936
From: Formerly Tampa Bay, FL, Currently Western PA
Have you checked / adjusted the air pressure in the shocks? That will make a world of difference. As mentioned, you could even get new shocks.
The '09 and '10 have an all new frame, and reportedly handle much better. But, I don't know if your back is going to tell much of a difference. I would say that if suspension is the ONLY reason you want to switch to the RKC, then you are making a mistake. As mentioned, you could just get a set of RK 12" rear shocks and then there would be no difference between the rear suspension of your SG and a RKC.
The '09 and '10 have an all new frame, and reportedly handle much better. But, I don't know if your back is going to tell much of a difference. I would say that if suspension is the ONLY reason you want to switch to the RKC, then you are making a mistake. As mentioned, you could just get a set of RK 12" rear shocks and then there would be no difference between the rear suspension of your SG and a RKC.
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Road Master
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 778
Likes: 10
From: Windsor Ontario
It might be a lot cheaper to change out your rear shocks.
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Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 193
Likes: 1
OP - by RKC are you referring to the Road King Custom? If so, that was only made from 2004-07, and it is lower than the standard RK via the shocks. I've got almost 40k miles on mine, and owned three Electraglides before it. I would say it rides harsher than any of the Glides I've had. The newer Glides ride even better.
You mentioned back pain. I've got a Corbin seat on my RKC and I love it. It's very firm, and not everyone's butt likes that, but it works for me even on long hops (500+ mile days). The best thing I ever did was buy the removeable backrest for it (a buddy had one he didn't need anymore). This is the real cure for lower back pain, imho - you should try one out if you haven't - they are amazing.
You mentioned back pain. I've got a Corbin seat on my RKC and I love it. It's very firm, and not everyone's butt likes that, but it works for me even on long hops (500+ mile days). The best thing I ever did was buy the removeable backrest for it (a buddy had one he didn't need anymore). This is the real cure for lower back pain, imho - you should try one out if you haven't - they are amazing.
