Does your Harley Touring bike feel a little… bumpy? You love cruising, but sometimes those road bumps can really shake things up. It’s frustrating when your ride isn’t as smooth as it should be. You’ve heard great things about Ohlins shocks, but figuring out which ones are best for your Harley can feel like a puzzle.
Choosing the right Ohlins shocks is a big decision for any Harley Touring rider. There are many different models, and each one promises a better ride. But how do you know which features matter most for your specific bike and your riding style? This can be confusing, and you want to make sure you get the best upgrade for your money.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Ohlins shocks for your Harley Touring. We’ll explain what makes them special and help you understand the differences between the popular options. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which Ohlins shocks will give you the smoothest, most comfortable ride possible. Get ready to transform your Harley experience!
Our Top 5 Ohlins Shocks For Harley Touring Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ohlins Shocks For Harley Touring Detailed Reviews
1. Ohlins HD 779 OHL STX 36 Blackline
Rating: 9.2/10
The Ohlins HD 779 OHL STX 36 Blackline shocks are a fantastic upgrade for your motorcycle. They are designed to give you a smoother ride and better control. These shocks are built with high-quality materials. They will make your riding experience much more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- They provide a significantly improved ride quality.
- The black finish looks really cool on any bike.
- Installation is usually pretty straightforward.
- The shocks offer great adjustability for different riding styles.
- They are built to last and handle tough conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point can be a bit high for some riders.
- Finding them might be difficult sometimes due to limited stock.
If you’re looking to enhance your motorcycle’s performance and comfort, the Ohlins HD 779 OHL STX 36 Blackline is definitely worth considering. They deliver on their promise of a superior ride.
2. Ohlins Shocks Harley-Davidson Touring Bagger
Rating: 8.5/10
Ohlins Shocks for your Harley-Davidson Touring Bagger are a serious upgrade. These shocks are designed to give your ride a much smoother feel. They help your bike handle better on the road. You’ll notice a difference in comfort, especially on longer trips. Ohlins is known for making high-quality suspension parts.
What We Like:
- Smoother ride quality, especially over bumps.
- Improved handling and stability for a safer feel.
- Ohlins’ reputation for top-notch performance.
- A noticeable boost in overall riding comfort.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point can be a significant investment.
- Installation might require some mechanical know-how or professional help.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, requiring patience.
If you’re looking to seriously enhance your Harley Touring Bagger’s performance and comfort, these Ohlins shocks are a fantastic option. They offer a premium experience for those who demand the best from their ride.
3. HD 159 Ohlins Shocks for ALL Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring Motorcycles 1998-Newer with FREE Preload Settings!
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your ride with the HD 159 Ohlins Shocks! These shocks are made for ALL Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring Motorcycles from 1998 to newer. They come with free preload settings, which means they are set up just right for you before you even get them. This makes a big difference in how your Harley rides. You’ll feel smoother turns and a more comfortable ride, even on bumpy roads. Ohlins is known for making really good parts for motorcycles, and these shocks are no exception. They help your bike handle better and give you a more enjoyable experience on every trip.
What We Like:
- Makes your Harley ride much smoother.
- Improves handling for safer turns.
- Comes with free preload settings, saving you time and effort.
- Fits all Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring models from 1998 and up.
- Ohlins is a trusted brand for high-quality motorcycle parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some riders.
- Installation might still require some mechanical know-how.
These Ohlins shocks are a fantastic upgrade for any Harley touring rider. They offer a noticeable improvement in comfort and performance for your bike.
4. Legend Suspensions 1310-0959 FL Touring Revo-A Black Rear Shocks 1999-2024 Standard 13″
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson’s ride with the Legend Suspensions 1310-0959 FL Touring Revo-A Black Rear Shocks. These 13-inch shocks offer a standard spring rate and adjustable rebound, giving you a smoother and more controlled experience on the road. They fit most Harley Touring bikes from 1999 to 2023, including popular models like Roadglides, Streetglides, and Roadkings. The sleek black finish looks great and the shocks are built to last.
What We Like:
- Smooth Ride: The adjustable rebound lets you dial in the perfect feel for your bike and your riding style.
- Built Tough: The hard black anodize finish resists wear and tear, keeping your shocks looking good.
- Wide Fitment: Works with a huge range of Harley Touring bikes, making it an easy upgrade.
- Easy Adjustments: Six external knobs make fine-tuning the rebound simple.
- Made in the USA: Hand-built in Sturgis, South Dakota, which is pretty cool.
- Lifetime Warranty: Legend Suspensions stands behind their product, giving you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price Point: These are a premium upgrade, so they are an investment.
If you want a better ride on your Harley Touring bike, these Legend Suspension shocks are a top-notch choice. They offer great adjustability and are built to last.
5. Ohlins FKC 101 Ohlins Front Fork Cartridges for All Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring Motorcycles 1999-2013
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring motorcycle with the Ohlins FKC 101 Front Fork Cartridges. These cartridges are designed to fit all Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring models from 1999 to 2013. They bring a significant improvement to your bike’s handling and ride quality. You’ll feel more control and comfort on every ride, from city streets to winding roads. This upgrade is a game-changer for any Harley owner looking for top-tier performance.
What We Like:
- Improved handling and stability.
- Smoother ride over bumps.
- Better control during braking and cornering.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation process.
What Could Be Improved:
- Higher price point compared to stock parts.
- Might require professional installation for some riders.
The Ohlins FKC 101 cartridges offer a noticeable upgrade for your Harley. They transform your riding experience, making every journey more enjoyable and secure.
Ohlins Shocks for Harley Touring: Your Ultimate Upgrade Guide
Ready to give your Harley Touring bike the ride of its life? Ohlins shocks are a top-tier upgrade that can transform your cruising experience. They offer a smoother, more controlled ride, especially when you hit bumps or corners. This guide will help you understand what makes Ohlins so special and how to pick the perfect set for your Harley.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at Ohlins shocks for your Harley Touring, keep these important features in mind:
- Adjustability: The best Ohlins shocks let you tweak things like preload, compression, and rebound. This means you can fine-tune your ride for different road conditions and how you like to ride.
- Springs: Ohlins offers different spring rates. A stiffer spring is good for carrying heavy loads or for aggressive riding. A softer spring can give you a plusher ride for long trips.
- Damping Technology: Ohlins uses advanced damping systems. These systems help control how the shock moves, reducing bouncing and keeping your tires on the road for better handling.
- Build Quality: Look for shocks that are built to last. This includes good seals and robust construction that can handle the demands of touring.
Important Materials
Ohlins uses high-quality materials to make their shocks strong and reliable:
- Aluminum: Many Ohlins shock bodies are made from strong, lightweight aluminum. This helps with performance and keeps weight down.
- Steel: High-strength steel is used for internal parts and mounting points. This ensures durability and can handle stress.
- Nitrogen Gas: Inside the shocks, a special gas called nitrogen is used. This helps prevent the fluid from foaming, which keeps the damping consistent even during hard use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your Ohlins shocks perform better or worse:
- Proper Installation: Getting your Ohlins shocks installed correctly is super important. If they aren’t put on right, they won’t work as well. A good mechanic can make sure they are set up perfectly.
- Regular Maintenance: Like any part of your bike, shocks need a little care. Keeping them clean and checking for leaks will help them last longer and perform better.
- Riding Style: If you’re a rider who pushes their bike hard, you’ll really notice the difference Ohlins makes. For casual cruising, you’ll still feel a smoother ride, but the biggest gains are for more demanding riding.
- Load: Carrying a passenger or lots of gear can make your stock shocks struggle. Ohlins shocks are designed to handle extra weight, keeping your ride stable and comfortable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Riders who upgrade to Ohlins shocks often rave about the improvements:
- Smoother Rides: Many riders report a much smoother ride, even over rough roads or bumps. The harshness is gone.
- Better Handling: Cornering feels more stable and predictable. The bike feels more planted, giving you more confidence.
- Reduced Fatigue: On long rides, the improved comfort means you’ll feel less tired. This lets you enjoy the journey more.
- Customization: Riders appreciate being able to adjust the shocks to their liking. Whether it’s for a solo ride or with a passenger, you can dial it in.
Ohlins shocks are a fantastic upgrade for any Harley Touring rider looking for a superior ride. They offer advanced technology, durable materials, and a noticeable improvement in comfort and handling.
Ohlins Shocks for Harley Touring: Your Questions Answered
Q: What are the main Key Features of Ohlins shocks?
A: Key features include adjustability for preload, compression, and rebound, different spring options for various needs, advanced damping technology for better control, and high-quality build for durability.
Q: What materials are typically used in Ohlins shocks?
A: Ohlins shocks often use strong and lightweight aluminum for the body, high-strength steel for internal parts and mounting, and nitrogen gas inside for consistent performance.
Q: How does proper installation affect the quality of Ohlins shocks?
A: Proper installation is crucial. If shocks aren’t installed correctly, they won’t perform at their best, and you might not get the full benefit of the upgrade.
Q: What is the benefit of adjustable preload on Ohlins shocks?
A: Adjustable preload lets you change the initial tension on the springs. This helps you set the right ride height and balance for different loads, like carrying a passenger or luggage.
Q: Can Ohlins shocks improve my bike’s handling in corners?
A: Yes, Ohlins shocks are known to significantly improve handling. They help keep the tire in contact with the road, reducing bouncing and making cornering more stable and predictable.
Q: Are Ohlins shocks good for long-distance touring?
A: Absolutely. The improved comfort and reduced fatigue from a smoother ride make Ohlins shocks ideal for long-distance touring.
Q: What happens if I don’t perform regular maintenance on my Ohlins shocks?
A: Skipping maintenance can lead to reduced performance, a shorter lifespan for the shocks, and potential issues like leaks. Regular cleaning and checks are important.
Q: How does the weight I carry affect my Harley’s suspension?
A: Carrying a passenger or heavy luggage puts extra stress on your suspension. Stock shocks can sag or bottom out, but Ohlins shocks are designed to handle these loads much better.
Q: What is rebound damping, and why is it important?
A: Rebound damping controls how quickly the shock extends after being compressed. Proper rebound damping prevents the bike from bouncing excessively, keeping it stable.
Q: Are Ohlins shocks worth the investment for a Harley Touring bike?
A: For many riders, the significant improvements in ride comfort, handling, and adjustability make Ohlins shocks a worthwhile investment for their Harley Touring bike.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.