Rear shock psi?
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Road Master
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 1,181
Likes: 2
Rear shock psi?
I just put on a set of 11.25" drop shocks form bitchin baggers. Havent had a chance to ride it weather kinda of crappy. I put 20psi in them, going to be riding the RK solo. Anyone with experience, what pressure are you running. Ive read some old post about people running 30+
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 2,706
Likes: 14
From: Near Frankenmuth, MI
On mine 20 pounds is max for 2 up riding.
You do know that you need to use ONLY the small hand pump designed for Harley air shocks??
Any pressure from an air compressor, or tire pump will blow them in an instant.
You do know that you need to use ONLY the small hand pump designed for Harley air shocks??
Any pressure from an air compressor, or tire pump will blow them in an instant.
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: MN
I'm puttiing on a set of 11.5" today. When I talked to BB they to run about 30-35 psi and I'm 220 and my wife is 130. He said you could go up 45-50 if needed. Weather not to good up here either. Winter is coming.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 14,731
Likes: 2,536
From: Mountain Top, Alabama
Not to give you a short answer, but I really believe it is trial and error to get the "seat of the pants" feel. On my '11RKC the recommended psi was way too firm. Instead of 20-30 solo and 40-50 2-up, I go with 10 solo and 20-25 2-up. Maybe it's because they are new, and could change later, who knows.(By the way, I am 210 lbs.) Like mentioned, air up with a low pressure device (shock pump, even a bike pump) and check it from time to time. There is such little volume, every time you check you will lose psi. Something I do is when I wash my bike, I make sure to splash a little soapy water around the hose and fittings and take a minute to check for leaks. No leaks - find what rides good - and just ride!
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 5,190
Likes: 5
From: Eastern Washington
When I first got my bike it came with 0 psi. Man that ride sucked. I run 18 psi now solo and it fit me pretty good. Get the hand pump and see what fits you best
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 3,156
Likes: 41
From: So Cal
Im running 12 psi now on stock RGC shocks that have had the oil changed in them to 7wt, I ride solo and weigh 210 lbs
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Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 205
Likes: 4
From: Indiana
I have the 11.5" BB shocks on my Ultra and I've experimented with different PSI's for nearly a year. I only weigh 140 and I used to run anywhere between 0-10 psi and the ride always seemed rough. I bumped it up to 30 while riding solo and it's a nice ride. When my wife jumps on I normally keep it at 30. She only weighs 120. If we're traveling and have it loaded down, I pump it up to 40 and again the ride is nice. Good luck!
