OK, so I have done a number of searches and found good info but not enough to make a decision. let me know if there is a thread that answers what I want. 13 SG. 150 lbs and ride 95% solo. Have stock shocks and have put them at 10 to 20. Doesn't matter, I feel every bump in the road. What should I change to in order to have a better ride? Thanks.

 

JRI from Motorcycle Metal and be done.

 

Ditto.You have to change the shocks.

The stock shocks are way over sprung for a lighter rider like you, Even with 0 psi you wont be able to adjust in any sag on stock HD air shocks, they will be hard and topped out most of the time. Im about 205 -210 and the stock shocks coud not be properly adjusted for sag at my weight and 0 pressure. The rule of thumb os with the rider on the bike they should sag about 1/3 the length of travel so on HD 12" shocks that have 2" of travel you should get 1/2-3/4 " sag and Ill bet they dont move with you on it.

Look into what you can afford JRI, Ohlin, Terry Works or Proressive all will be an improvement, I MO from best to better.

 

yes, start with air pressure adjustments...for me 7 to 10 PSI at 235# with riding gear and about 15 pounds of crap forgotten in my saddlebags

you have the 12" shocks, the ultras etc have 13" shocks...so 50% more shock travel and more time for that travel to take place= smoother ride

you neither want to bottom out or "top out" the shocks

if that doesn't work then you may be looking at dropping cash on premium aftermarket shocks

mike

 

I run flat zero solo. No air pressure at all in the shocks. I add air when the wife gets on. I'm about 185 lbs.

 

Been doing the same research and almost had a set of Progressive 940's from another forum member (missed opportunity). With my budget - seriously considering new set of Progressive 944's w/std springs...little over $500, but sounds like x1000 improvement over stock springboards on my FLHX.

 

+1 on that...Spend the money once and don't look back.....

 

Just put some more weight on...

Another 150 lb should do it. Grow a beard and, if ya have to, dye it gray. Then you'll look like the rest of us!

 

Thanks man! Got the gray beard, not sure about the extra 150.

 

I have had the JRI Type A shocks for a couple months. I do not have bottoming out problems, but these are not plush soft riding shocks. I would say they are a more performance riding shock similar to the ride of a sport coupe car. My stock shocks bottomed out often and the ride was very uncomfortable.