Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length

[SmokeyJoe]

This winter i would like to add an air ride system to the rear, look simple enough.  Any tips on what to get as far as brand would be greatly appreciated.

My real problem is on deciding which monotubes to get.  I have the HD stock wheels all the way around.   So i am not sure if I can do the 2" or do i need the 1" drop.  I do not want ride quality or handling to suffer at all.  Then i get really confused when i look at the part numbers, so if you guys have part number that would be huge plus as i try to put together my shopping list.

If there is anything i need or should get before bigining the install, like items that break, strip or should be replaced, please let me know as i am in Germany and could be waiting a long time for a HD part.

Thanx all

[Para Bellum]

I do not want ride quality or handling to suffer at all.

Unfortunately, when you lower the bike, both quality and handling suffer: quality because the shocks must be stiffer to avoid bottoming, and because there is less travel in the shock to absorb the bump; handling is degraded b/c the bike will scrape the ground at a smaller lean angle.

There are many posts on here about front suspension upgrades with input comparing Traxxion Dynamic's AK-20s, Progressive Suspension's monotubes, HD Premium Ride cartridges, and Ricor Intimidators.  In general, the AK-20 seems to be the best quality at a high price, while PS and HD are close together (PS is better) at roughly the same price.  Ricor seems to be used less often, as there isn't as much said about them, but many reports are positive.

Same goes for the rear, with input on Legend's air shocks vs. Arnott Aldan's version or a home made system using car-type air shocks like Monroe or Gabriel.

Besides searching for posts on here, you can go to traxxion.com, http://www.progressivesuspension.com/monotube/index.html (model 31-2501 for lowering either 1 or 2 inches), http://store.ricorshocks.com/category_s/59.htm, http://www.legendsuspensions.com/Products.aspx?SiteID=2, and http://www.arnottairsuspension.com/.

[SmokeyJoe]

Makes sense that the ride would suffer if lowered, which is what i don't want at all.  Which PS monotube would keep my stock height and perform well overall.  I looked at the AK's and wow they are really proud of those, is the price difference worth the ride quality?  I am not afraid to spend the dime as long as I am getting what i want. 

For the rear does anyone have an opinion on quality of ride of a good air ride system vs a good coil sprung system?  I never had either so i have no point of reference.  I thought i wanted an air ride because i wanted the lowered look, but i am not locked in eihter way at this point.

Basically i am looking for improved performance and ride quality, nothing harsh as i have a bad back that would pay deary to a harsh ride.

[SmokeyJoe]

So i am thinking the Legends but not sure which way to go 12 or13"?

The for the monotubes, which one

[2k]

Have you gave any thought to the homemade(automotive shocks) rear system. Lots of stuff on here and other forums......99% good

http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=86826.0

[SmokeyJoe]

As I research this I am finding out I really do not want the air system at all.

I am thinking a good sprung system now.  I do not mind spending the coin as long as my back is in good shape after a ride.

I have heard good things about the Ohlins and I had them on my Toyota and they were awsome too.

Any other suggestions?

[2k]

I have Progressive 944's and like them........but you are talking a different league!!

[SmokeyJoe]

What can you tell me about the 944's?

I am not locked into anything at this point, its all about the research and comments from folks like yourself. 

[CVO2FIXUP]

 Check out Works Shocks  ( the black billet trackers ) and Works cartridges for the front. Installed this system on my 2010 with dramatic improvement.  Parts are custom made to your bike, weight, and riding style. And are very reliable. Have a friend with over 100,000 KM two up on his Trackers with out any maintenance or failures. 

[FLHTCUSE7]

Went with Ohlins on mine, I am really happy with them, but now I can feel how piss poor the front fork suspension is so that is next on my list.

[2k]

What can you tell me about the 944's?

I am not locked into anything at this point, its all about the research and comments from folks like yourself. 

I am really happy with them, night & day difference in the stock air shocks. Can 'feel' the road better and they handle great. Getting the preload right is the key & different for each rider(s). On the + side it is easy to adjust. Keep in mind that I have not ridden the "expensive" shocks.

[Skillet]

I've had the 944's on for going on two years and well satisfied.