Ohlins Feedback
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Tourer
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 361
Likes: 3
From: Alexandria, Va
Ohlins Feedback
Hello, I just got back from having my Ohlins installed at a local HD dealer and thought I'd post some feedback. I'm coming off a stock air shock suspension so the difference is quite remarkable. I haven't adjusted anything yet but I can tell you the ride is greatly improved. I can actually feel the road better but without any harshness, just a smooth appreciation for the terrain. The bike also feels like it brakes better because the rear wheel is better planted to the surface. I bought them from Howard at Motorcycle Metal and it was a pleasure dealing with him; he was very responsive and worked with me on shipping. I was looking at other rear shocks but Howard was the only one that got back to me when I asked questions. How I'm treated as a customer is a huge factor in my purchases. I look forward to dealing with Howard if he comes up with something to improve the forks.
Some pictures below. Sorry about the crappy quality.
New out of the box
On the bike. Cost me 56,000 Won for installation. That's about $50 US. I guess the Korean Harley Techs liked the shocks (some of them took turns riding it)
Tucked away
I've got some Metzlers coming and I can't wait to feel what new tires and shocks do for the bike.
Oh yeah, saw this bike outside and took some pictures. Pretty cool eh. I like the various leather bags.
I liked the seat
Thanks for everything Howard.
Ride safe everyone.
Some pictures below. Sorry about the crappy quality.
New out of the box
On the bike. Cost me 56,000 Won for installation. That's about $50 US. I guess the Korean Harley Techs liked the shocks (some of them took turns riding it)
Tucked away
I've got some Metzlers coming and I can't wait to feel what new tires and shocks do for the bike.
Oh yeah, saw this bike outside and took some pictures. Pretty cool eh. I like the various leather bags.
I liked the seat
Thanks for everything Howard.
Ride safe everyone.
Last edited by Kilo6; Apr 24, 2010 at 03:42 AM.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
Happy customer #5 reporting in. I installed the #2-3 last September and continue to marvel at how smooth this bike rides now. It glides over small bumps like they aren't even there, and their compliance for all types of road irregularities has two indirect side-effects. One is that I don't need to use my backrest except on long trips, as the improved ride extends my back's ability to cope without soreness. Second is my butt tolerance for staying on the bike for extended periods. I can go longer now without dismounting to reform my butt shape.
A smooth ride is no good without handling competence and these shocks also increase compliance and control. I've used the 12" SG shocks, which were little better than no shocks at all, and some 12˝" Progressive 440's with standard springs. Each step has been progress toward a better-performing suspension and I will not be looking for further improvements, as I don't think it is possible.
BTW, I sold my old Progressives on Ebay for $300 and bought the Ohlins for $516 shipped. What a great bang-for-the-buck deal that was!
A smooth ride is no good without handling competence and these shocks also increase compliance and control. I've used the 12" SG shocks, which were little better than no shocks at all, and some 12˝" Progressive 440's with standard springs. Each step has been progress toward a better-performing suspension and I will not be looking for further improvements, as I don't think it is possible.
BTW, I sold my old Progressives on Ebay for $300 and bought the Ohlins for $516 shipped. What a great bang-for-the-buck deal that was!
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
The only adjustment on the #2-3 is preload. I don't ride 2-up but have found that the default preload is right for both fully loaded with Tour Pak and unloaded (no TP) conditions. Howard sets the preload for your needs prior to shipping.
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Just installed a set of Ohlins #3's on my Procharged 09 Road King and they work awesome with adjustable ride height, dampning and preload and are an excellent upgrade from the stock shocks. I used Ohlins products thru much of my roadracing career and quality is second to none. The personal service and setup for my bike and riding style by Howard/Motorcycle Metal was priceless!
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Jamie Long / Fuel Moto USA
The USA's Leader V-Twin EFI & Performance www.fuelmotousa.com
Contact 920-423-3309
Email jamie@fuelmotousa.com
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,890
Likes: 73
From: MA
I just don't know, I must be missing something here. I can't see where a preloaded shock can handle the weight difference between a solo rider at an average weight of 175# and a fully loaded bike with an additional weight factor of an average passenger at 130# plus maybe 50-60# of gear. That is an additional 190# plus the rider for a total of 365# and the ride isn't stiff or hard for the solo set up?
Also, the Op doesn't say which model he bought but it looks like the adjustable kit #3.
Also, the Op doesn't say which model he bought but it looks like the adjustable kit #3.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 6,532
Likes: 132
From: SoCal
Love my Ohlins , have been using them since 1979 and my cheapness got in the way of buying the #3's and although I love my #2's , I wish I would have paid the extra $ for the #3's cause moving the c-clip is a PITA.