I have a 2006 RoadKing Custom. I want to lower the rear about and 1" or so. Those of you that have lowered your bike with the lowering kit how did it handle. Would short shocks handle better or is their really a difference.

 

went with the blocks just to lower an inch,didnt want to spend the $ on shocks just to lower a little,very happy with my choice.

 

Your bike sould already have the shorter HD shocks on it.I put your shocks and seat on my 06 standard and it made it just the right height for me,and it didn't affect the handling.On my 09 Classic I did the same for the shocks and put a Danny Gray solo on.

 

I have the blocks, haven't had any handling problems. If there is a difference I think you'd have to push pretty hard to tell.
Some of the aftermarket shocks might ride better than stock so you might get a little more benefit than just the height.

 

I don't think you can use the lowering blocks on your RKC. I think the bags have a channel in the back of them to accommodate the shocks. If you change the angle of the shocks you may have a fitment problem. The RKC comes with the 12" shocks. If you want shorter shocks try Bitchen Bagger . They're cut down Harley air shocks. I love mine at 10 3/4.

 

the only problem with using the blocks involves saddlebag clearance, if you change the shock angle the shocks may hit the saddlebags on the leather style bags. Thats the reason most lowering blocks will not fit FLHRCI or RKC models. I'd start looking for a different seat to get the 1" closer to the ground rather than mess with the blocks.

 

I actually had the bag clearance issue on my sporty. the molded HD bags would not mount up after adding the lowering blocks. the blocks work fine, they just reposition the shocks dramatically.

 

Keep in mind that when you change the angle of the shocks you change the way the shock works.. There is a lot of data on the internet on shock angles.. Increasing the angle usually makes for a softer ride but that also increases the travel which can lead to bottoming out issues..

 

Another votr for Bitchin Baggers,I lowered my bike 1 1/2 in Itried lowering blocks,Harleys low shocks and the best option is Bitchin Baggers,but anytime you lower with blocks or shocks ,you will lose a bit of ride quality.

 

i agree with bitchinbaggers.com...love the ride and the service sent mine out on a saturday had them back wensday...175.00