Ever feel like your Harley Davidson touring bike is bouncing around too much on the open road? You’re not alone. That plush ride you dream about can quickly turn into a jarring experience if your shocks aren’t up to the task. Choosing the right Harley Davidson touring shocks feels like a maze sometimes. There are so many brands, types, and features, it’s easy to get lost and end up with something that doesn’t feel right for your bike or your riding style.
This confusion can lead to uncomfortable rides, especially on longer trips. You might find yourself feeling every bump, or your bike could feel unstable in corners. But what if there was a way to cut through all the noise and find the perfect shocks for your ride? By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a great touring shock and how to pick the best ones for your specific needs. We’ll break down the options so you can finally experience the smooth, controlled ride your Harley deserves.
Top Harley Davidson Touring Shocks Recommendations
- 13" Rear Shocks
- For 1984-2022 Harley Electra Glide Standard, Ultra Classic, CVO
- Eye to eye length: 13 inch (330.2mm)
- Spring Width: 2.45 inch (62mm), Spring Thickness: 0.28 inch (7.5mm)
- Finish: Powder Coated Black
- Adaptive Riding: Nitrogen-charged shocks with multi-stage, velocity-sensitive valving that adjust to your riding conditions
- Customize Your Ride: Five-position cam-style preload adjuster for easy tuning
- Spring Rate Options: Available in heavy-duty or standard rates, heavy-duty recommended for heavier riders or frequent passengers
- Steering Impact: Going longer than stock may slightly quicken steering, while going shorter may slow it and stiffen the ride
- Easy Adjustment: Five-cam style spring load preload adjuster for straightforward ride customization
- 13" Standard Spring Rate With Adjustable Rebound
- Hard Black Anodize
- Fits 1999-2023 Harley Touring Bikes (Roadglides, Streetglides, Ultras, Roadkings, Electraglides, etc)
- All the benefits of the new REVO shocks above plus six external knob adjustments allow fine-tuning of rebound
- Lifetime Warranty
- Condition: Aftermarket brand new, these shocks feature a shock-absorbing hole distance adjustable from 330mm to 335mm. Enjoy a plush ride quality with improved control and resistance to bottoming-out, thanks to the 26 levels of adjustable compression damping and 43 levels of adjustable rebound damping.
- Adjustability: With 26 levels of compression damping adjustment, achieve the perfect balance between comfort and control. The 43 levels of rebound damping adjustment ensure a smooth and controlled response after encountering bumps. Preload settings, adjustable to a height of 50mm on both shocks, allow customization for rider, passenger, and luggage weight, ensuring a personalized and adaptable riding experience.
- Easy Installation: No need for specialized tools – our remote reservoir rear suspension shocks are designed for easy installation and hassle-free adjustments. The rotating reservoir, with an adjustable angle connector, enhances convenience, while oil-free bearings on upper and lower fixed positions ensure durability. Make on-the-fly adjustments with confidence, enhancing your motorcycle's performance without the need for complex tools.
- Design: Elevate the style of your motorcycle with the sleek black hard-coat finish on the reservoir, complemented by stainless steel lines. The 14mm diameter shock absorber, along with a buffer rubber ring, provides not only a stylish appearance but also enhanced ride quality. The reservoir's durable construction ensures long-lasting performance, making these shocks a reliable and stylish addition to your bike.
- Precise Damping Control, Expert Support: Achieve precise damping control easily. Just turn the adjuster counterclockwise to position 0, then count clockwise clicks to your desired setting. For further assistance, contact our customer service for customized damping settings based on your weight and riding habits. NOTE: When adjusting the preload, it’s best to keep the motorcycle suspended, and the rider and passenger should leave the seat. Follow the diagram: first, loosen the safety screw, then rotate the adjustment spring, and tighten the safety screw after adjustment.
- Fits select 1984-2018 Touring Bikes
- Heavy Duty (250lbs +)
- Standard Height
- Fits 1986-2018 Electra Glides, 1998-2018 Road Glides, 1994-2018 Road Kings, 2006-2018 Street Glides, 2015-2018 Ultra Limiteds
- Fitment: For Harley Davidson For Harley Touring Tour Glide FLT, for Electra Glide FLHT, for Road King FLHR, for Road Glide FLTR, for Street Glide FLHX 1980-2025. (Excluding Trike and Models with Fork Cartridge)
- Specifications: Eye to eye Length: 11.7 inch (298mm). Preload adjustable to tune to rider weight.Spring Stiffness: 150 kg
- Excellent Performance: Five-level buckle adjustment springs,customize your own cycling habits. This shock offer a lower position than the stock on rear, It can offer a better riding position and give your bike look cooler with the rear lowering.
- Why choose us: Made with highly elastic materials, it effectively absorbs bumps and improves riding comfort. It meets the shock absorption needs of long-distance touring rides and enhances handling stability.
- Package Including: 1x Pair Touring rear shocks.
- 【Fitment】: The Rear Shocks is compatible with Harley Touring Tour Glide FLT, fit Electra Glide FLHT, fit Road King FLHR, fit Road Glide FLTR, fit Street Glide FLHX 1980-2026(excluding Trike).
- 【Specifications】: Eye to eye Length:13 inch.（330.2mm）Preload adjustable to tune to rider weight. Spring Width: 2.45inch (62mm). Spring Thickness: 0.28inch (7.5mm). Finish: Black Plating. Progressively wound springs for a smooth, comfortable ride.
- 【High Performance】: This shock offer a lower position than the stock on rear,that will make riding more comfortable. It can offer a better riding position and give your bike a new clear look with the rear lowering.
- 【Installation】: Easy bolt-on application.
- 【Package Including】: 1x Pair touring rear shocks.
- Superior Ride: RKV86 Rear Shock Length of Eye to Eye Core 295mm, Universal For Harley Sportster from 2004 to 2020. Boasting 30 levels of compression damping adjustment and 60mm compression stroke, has a 14mm smooth chrome-plated hydraulic rod, these shock absorbers deliver a smoother, more comfortable ride.
- Enhanced Adjustability：Featuring a seat level adjustment range of up to 10mm and a spring preload adjustment range of 25mm. Whether you're looking to improve ride comfort or optimize performance, these adjustments give you the flexibility to meet your specific needs.
- Heavy-Duty Construction：Crafted from high-strength 6061-T6 aluminum and a robust 8mm spring wire diameter, these shock absorbers are built to last. Capable of handling a maximum load of 400-700 lbs, they combine durability with lightweight design, ensuring reliable performance mile after mile.
- Comprehensive Package：Each purchase includes a hex key and an adjustment wrench, providing everything you need for easy installation and maintenance. These essential tools make it simple to adjust your shocks, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
- Fitment: Sportster Forty-Eight XL1200X (2010-2022) / Iron XL1200NS (2018-2020) / Sportster Low/superLow XL883L (2005-2019) / Nightster XL1200N (2007-2012) / Roadster XL1200CX (2016-2020) / Roadster XL1200R (2004-2008) / Seventy-Two XL1200V (2012-2016) / Sport XL1200S (1996-2003) / SuperLow XL1200T (2014-2017) / Forty-Eight Special XL1200XS (2018-2019) / Roadster XL1200CX (2016-2020) / XL883 (2004-2009)
Upgrade Your Ride: A Buyer’s Guide to Harley Davidson Touring Shocks
When you own a Harley Davidson touring bike, you want every part of your ride to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Your shocks play a big role in that. They soak up bumps and keep your tires on the road. Upgrading your shocks can make a huge difference. This guide will help you choose the best shocks for your Harley.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for new shocks, keep these important features in mind:
- Adjustability: Some shocks let you change how stiff they are. This is great because you can adjust them for different loads, like riding solo or with a passenger and luggage.
- Travel Length: This is how much the shock can compress. Longer travel can mean a softer ride, but it might also affect how your bike handles.
- Spring Type: Shocks use different kinds of springs. Some are air-adjustable, which lets you fine-tune the ride. Others have coil springs that you can preload.
- Damping: This is how the shock controls movement. Good damping stops your bike from bouncing too much.
Important Materials
The materials used in shocks affect how long they last and how well they work. Most good touring shocks use:
- Steel: Strong and durable, steel is used for the main body of the shock.
- Aluminum: Lighter than steel, aluminum is sometimes used for shock bodies or caps to reduce weight.
- High-Quality Seals: These keep oil inside the shock and dirt out. Good seals are vital for the shock’s performance and lifespan.
- Durable Springs: Whether air or coil, the springs need to be made of strong metal that can handle repeated compression and expansion.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your shocks better or worse:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better parts and have stricter quality control.
- Construction Quality: Look for clean welds and smooth finishes. Poorly made shocks won’t last long.
- Adjustability Options: More ways to adjust your shocks usually means a better, more customizable ride.
- Maintenance: Shocks need care. Not cleaning them or checking for leaks can reduce their quality over time.
- Riding Style: If you ride aggressively or carry heavy loads often, you need shocks built for that.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most Harley Davidson touring riders want shocks that make long rides more comfortable. People upgrade for:
- Comfort on Long Trips: Shocks that absorb road imperfections reduce fatigue on cross-country journeys.
- Improved Handling: Better shocks can make your bike feel more stable, especially when cornering or at highway speeds.
- Carrying Extra Weight: If you often ride with a passenger or a lot of gear, adjustable shocks can keep your bike from sagging.
- Better Control: Shocks that offer good damping give you more confidence on varied road surfaces.
For riders who cruise scenic routes or commute daily, a comfortable and stable ride is key. For those who push their bikes on winding roads, responsive and adjustable shocks are a must. The right shocks enhance your entire riding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main benefits of upgrading my Harley Davidson touring shocks?
A: Upgrading your shocks can make your ride much more comfortable, improve handling and stability, and help your bike handle extra weight better.
Q: How do I know if my current shocks need replacing?
A: If your ride feels bumpy, your bike bounces a lot, or you notice leaks from the shocks, it’s probably time for an upgrade.
Q: Are adjustable shocks worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, adjustable shocks offer more flexibility. You can fine-tune your ride for different conditions, like carrying a passenger or riding on rough roads.
Q: Can I install new shocks myself?
A: For many riders, yes. Basic tools and some mechanical knowledge are usually enough. However, if you’re not comfortable, a professional mechanic can do it.
Q: How much travel length should I look for?
A: This depends on your bike and riding style. Longer travel often means a softer ride, but it’s important to check if it fits your bike without issues.
Q: What’s the difference between air shocks and coil-over shocks?
A: Air shocks use air pressure to adjust stiffness, offering easy, on-the-fly changes. Coil-over shocks typically use a spring that you adjust by turning a collar.
Q: Will new shocks affect my bike’s ground clearance?
A: Some shocks, especially those with longer travel or different mounting points, might slightly change your bike’s height or ground clearance. Check the product details.
Q: How often should I maintain my new shocks?
A: Regularly clean your shocks to remove dirt and debris. Check for any oil leaks and ensure all mounting bolts are tight. Refer to the shock manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: Are there specific shock brands recommended for Harley Davidson touring bikes?
A: Yes, brands like Öhlins, Progressive Suspension, and Legend Suspensions are popular and well-regarded for their quality and performance on Harley touring models.
Q: Can I use shocks designed for other Harley models on my touring bike?
A: It’s best to use shocks specifically designed for your Harley Davidson touring model. Different models have different weight capacities, suspension geometry, and mounting requirements.