shocks
Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 384
Likes: 15
From: Iowa City, Iowa
shocks
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.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 3,156
Likes: 41
From: So Cal
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.
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.
Last edited by XARAN; Aug 15, 2013 at 09:39 PM.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 14,744
Likes: 402
From: Phoenix '53, '88, '09 Big Twins
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
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
Last edited by mkguitar; Aug 16, 2013 at 12:51 AM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 25,306
Likes: 2,443
From: Eastern NE
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.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 4,741
Likes: 45
From: Indian Land, SC
+1 on that...Spend the money once and don't look back.....
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 2,422
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From: Fla
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!
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!
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Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 384
Likes: 15
From: Iowa City, Iowa
Thanks man! Got the gray beard, not sure about the extra 150.
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 506
Likes: 7
From: Charlotte, NC
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.
