Air shock gurus
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 1,988
Likes: 17
From: Between Fort Worth and Wichita Falls Texas
Shoot, I've had zero up to fifty pounds and I can't see a difference. I think it's the nature of those shocks. I'm going to put Progressives on. At least then I can see the springs so maybe I'll think it rides better.
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 365
Likes: 0
From: Illinois
I'd say you're going to have to experiment. Every set up is different. You'll get some people telling you the stock shocks suck and there's nothing you can do, but for most people there's a sweet spot that will give you an excellent ride and handling. If you've got a soft ride, but you're bottoming out, then add air. If the ride is too stiff all the time, let some out. It probably won't help you much, but on my Limited I'm at 26 pounds solo (180 lbs) and 37 pounds two-up (295 pounds if she's telling the truth). And yes, a few pounds can make a huge difference in the ride.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 3,156
Likes: 41
From: So Cal
Im 210 Lbs and ride solo 95% of the time , when I was using the stock HD Air Shocks the best ride I found was between 0-10 psi but even at that the shocks were over sprung and I did not get any "sag" out of them. So they were always running topped out unless they hit a bump.
If you want to make a big difference in the ride quality and handling change out the stock shocks for some after market JRI or Ohlins from Motorcycle metal are top of the line then there are Progressive 940 or 944, 444, or terry cable or Works orr even the HD Premium Hand Adjustable off the CVO are a big improvement. Im running the Progressive 940 with lighter springs and they are great IMO.
If you want to make a big difference in the ride quality and handling change out the stock shocks for some after market JRI or Ohlins from Motorcycle metal are top of the line then there are Progressive 940 or 944, 444, or terry cable or Works orr even the HD Premium Hand Adjustable off the CVO are a big improvement. Im running the Progressive 940 with lighter springs and they are great IMO.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 3,832
Likes: 127
From: Coastal Carolina
Read the ___ manual. The set up and pressure recommendations changed when they redesigned the frame, so anyone with an older bike will tell you something completely inapplicable to your bike. On my 2011 RKC the recommended pressure of 40 psi is great for me solo (215) and with my wife (110).
Stage II
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Baton Rouge, LA
Get those damn things off and put on the progressives... I bought an '05 Electra and it rode bad from the dealership. Went back and complained about the ride and they said to play with different pressures. I even bought another set off Ebay (mistake) and the ride was still BAD!! Bought the cheapest Progressives (412's) and now it rides on a cloud.. I'm 240lb...spend the $200!!
Supporter
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,685
Likes: 36
From: Hoboken, NJ
I've begun to notice, now that the "bloom is off the rose" so to speak, that the ride on my '10 FLHX is... stiff. NOTHING like my Night Train but still... for a $20+g bike, I expect a somewhat plusher ride.
I may look into the Progressives.
I may look into the Progressives.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 4,598
Likes: 421
From: Lansing mi
Get those damn things off and put on the progressives... I bought an '05 Electra and it rode bad from the dealership. Went back and complained about the ride and they said to play with different pressures. I even bought another set off Ebay (mistake) and the ride was still BAD!! Bought the cheapest Progressives (412's) and now it rides on a cloud.. I'm 240lb...spend the $200!!
Did you get the HD springs and are they 13"?
I'm looking for any info on the 12" with the softer springs. I'm 180 lbs and never ride 2-up, solo only.
Stock 13" sucks and they are to tall for me to. At this time in my life with little income I cant justify spending $570 + to get a good soft ride, but I will spend $200 to get a improved ride, and I shouldn't even need to spend that much. A Turing bike should ride smooth stock.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 1,699
Likes: 8
From: New Jersey
Before you buy progressives call howard at motorcycle metal he will help you figure out what shock will work best for your riding style
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