Does your Harley Touring bike feel a little… bumpy? Maybe you’ve hit a pothole and felt every single jolt all the way up to your teeth. If your ride isn’t as smooth as you want it to be, it’s time to talk about rear suspension. This is a big deal for any Harley rider who loves hitting the open road.
Choosing the right rear suspension for your Harley Touring bike can be confusing. There are so many brands and types! You want to make sure you pick something that makes your ride more comfortable, handles better, and lasts a long time. But where do you even start? It’s easy to feel lost in all the technical details.
That’s why we’re here. In this post, we’ll break down what you need to know about Harley Touring rear suspension. We’ll explore the different options, explain what makes them work, and help you figure out which one is best for you. Get ready to discover how to transform your ride from jarring to enjoyable. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Rear Suspension For Harley Touring Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rear Suspension For Harley Touring Detailed Reviews
1. NEWZQ Rear Air Ride Suspension Set Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring Glide Ultra 1994-2023
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson’s ride with the NEWZQ Rear Air Ride Suspension Set. This kit lets you adjust your bike’s height and stiffness. You can make your ride smoother and more comfortable. It’s a great way to improve how your motorcycle feels on the road.
What We Like:
- Fits a wide range of Harley Davidson Touring models from 1994 to 2023, including Ultra Glide, Ultra Limited, CVO, Electra Glide, Road Glide, and Road King.
- Offers adjustable ride height and air pressure for a customized, comfortable ride.
- Helps absorb bumps and vibrations for a smoother experience, especially on longer trips.
- Provides a significant improvement in ride quality compared to stock suspension.
- The installation process is straightforward for those with some mechanical knowledge.
What Could Be Improved:
- While many models are covered, it’s crucial to double-check your specific bike’s year and model for compatibility.
- Some riders might need additional tools or a more detailed installation guide.
- The long-term durability of the air components might vary depending on usage and maintenance.
This NEWZQ Air Ride Suspension set is a solid upgrade for many Harley riders. It offers a noticeable improvement in comfort and adjustability for your touring bike.
2. TCT-MOTORPARTS Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit Fit for Harley Touring Bagger Road King Electra Glide Street Glide Road Glide 1994-2025
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your Harley Touring bike with the TCT-MOTORPARTS Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit. This kit is designed to replace your stock shocks, giving you the freedom to adjust your ride height. You can lower your bike by 2 to 3 inches when the air is let out. When you need it, you can pump it back up to the normal ride height for a smooth journey.
What We Like:
- Fits all Harley Touring models from 1994-2025.
- Lets you lower your bike for a custom look and feel.
- Easy to adjust ride height for comfort.
- Quickly returns to stock height for normal riding.
- High-quality fittings for reliable performance.
- Includes all the parts you need to install it.
What Could Be Improved:
- The tees are made of plastic, which might not be as durable as metal.
- The exact lowering amount depends on the air pressure and bike weight.
This kit offers a fantastic way to personalize your Harley and improve its ride. It’s a solid upgrade for any Touring rider looking for more control over their bike’s stance and comfort.
3. Woosphy Rear Air Ride Suspension Set Replacement for Harley Davidson Touring Street Glide Bagger Models 1994-2023
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your Harley Davidson Touring, Street Glide, or Bagger with the Woosphy Rear Air Ride Suspension Set. This complete kit replaces your old shocks with new air shocks you can adjust for height. It’s designed for Harley models from 1994 to 2023, fitting Touring Glide Ultras too. You can lower your bike by 2 to 3 inches when all the air is out. Installation instructions are included to help you get it set up.
What We Like:
- Adjustable ride height lets you fine-tune your bike’s stance.
- Lowers your bike for a custom look and easier ground reach.
- Includes all necessary parts for a complete replacement.
- Works with a wide range of Harley Davidson Touring models from 1994-2023.
- Installation instructions are provided.
What Could Be Improved:
- The fully collapsed height might still be too high for some riders seeking a very low profile.
- The range of adjustment, while good, could be wider for more extreme lowering options.
This Woosphy Air Ride Suspension set offers a great way to customize your Harley’s look and feel. It provides flexibility in ride height and a cleaner profile for your bike.
4. XFMT Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit Shocks Absorber Fit For Harley Touring Baggers Road King Street Glide Road Glide Electra Glide Ultra Classic 1994-Later
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to give your Harley Touring Bagger a custom look and a smoother ride? The XFMT Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit is here to help. This kit lets you easily lower your bike for that slammed look or raise it up to stock height in seconds. It’s designed for a range of Harley models from 1994 and newer, including the Road King, Street Glide, Road Glide, Electra Glide, and Ultra Classic.
What We Like:
- Customizable Ride Height: Lower your bike 2-3 inches for a cool style, or air it up to stock for a comfortable ride.
- Safe “Slammed” Riding: You can ride with zero air pressure without your tire rubbing the fender on most newer models.
- Easy to Use Fittings: The system uses simple push-to-connect fittings for quick adjustments.
- Complete Kit: It includes everything you need for a fully working, adjustable air suspension.
- Smooth Ride: Enjoy a smoother ride thanks to the adjustable air pressure.
What Could Be Improved:
- Rubbing Clarity: While it works on most newer models, checking details for older bikes or specific tire setups is recommended.
- Installation Details: While instructions are included, some users might find the installation requires a bit of mechanical know-how.
This XFMT Air Ride kit offers great flexibility for customizing your Harley’s look and feel. It’s a solid upgrade for riders who want both style and comfort.
5. Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks Compatible with Harley Touring Road King Street Electra Road Glide 2014-2025 with Gloss Black Reservoir
Rating: 9.0/10
Upgrade your Harley Touring motorcycle with Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks. These gloss black shocks offer a unique design and precise adjustability for a smoother, more controlled ride. They are built tough and designed to handle your touring needs.
What We Like:
- Precise Control: With 26 levels of compression and 43 levels of rebound damping, you can fine-tune your ride for any road condition.
- Built to Last: The remote reservoirs feature durable PTFE tubing braided with stainless steel, resistant to extreme temperatures.
- Customizable Comfort: Easily adjust preload to match rider, passenger, and gear weight, ensuring optimal performance.
- Easy Adjustments: No tools are needed to change compression and rebound damping, making adjustments quick and simple on the go.
- Stylish Look: The gloss black finish with exposed reservoirs adds a custom touch to your Harley.
- Accessory Friendly: Reservoir brackets are designed to work with all factory Two-Up accessories.
What Could Be Improved:
- Fitment Variations: It’s important to carefully check the detailed fitment list as these shocks are not compatible with all 2014-2025 Harley Touring models.
- Potential Oil Stains: While it doesn’t affect the product, expect some oil or grease on the packaging due to storage and transport conditions.
These Mofun shocks offer a significant upgrade in ride quality and adjustability for your Harley Touring bike. They provide excellent control and a comfortable experience, making them a worthwhile investment for riders seeking better performance.
Upgrade Your Ride: The Essential Guide to Harley Touring Rear Suspension
Is your Harley Davidson touring bike feeling a little rough around the edges? Maybe you’re hitting bumps harder than you’d like, or your bike feels unstable on the open road. It’s time to talk about rear suspension! Upgrading your rear suspension can make a world of difference, giving you a smoother, more comfortable, and safer ride. This guide will help you pick the perfect rear suspension for your Harley touring bike.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for new rear suspension, keep these important features in mind:
- Adjustability: This is a big one! Look for suspension that lets you adjust the preload, compression, and rebound. Preload helps set the initial sag of your bike, which is how much it sinks when you sit on it. Compression and rebound control how quickly the suspension moves in and out. More adjustments mean you can fine-tune the ride for your weight, your riding style, and the road conditions.
- Travel Length: This is how much the suspension can move up and down. Longer travel can soak up bigger bumps better, offering a plusher ride. Shorter travel might offer a sportier feel and better ground clearance.
- Ride Height: Some suspensions allow you to change the bike’s ride height. Lowering it can make your bike easier to handle at low speeds. Raising it can improve cornering clearance.
- Spring Rate: This is how stiff the spring is. A stiffer spring is good for heavier riders or when carrying a lot of gear. A softer spring might be better for lighter riders.
- Damping: This refers to how the suspension controls the movement of the spring. Good damping prevents the bike from bouncing too much after hitting a bump.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in your rear suspension greatly affect its durability and performance.
- Aluminum: Many shocks use aluminum bodies. It’s lightweight and strong. Some high-end shocks have billet aluminum bodies, which are machined from solid blocks for maximum strength and a premium look.
- Steel: Steel is often used for springs and sometimes for shock bodies. It’s strong and cost-effective.
- Chrome: Chrome plating is common for a stylish look and added protection against corrosion.
- High-Quality Seals and Bushings: These small parts are crucial for smooth operation and preventing leaks. Look for brands that use reputable seal manufacturers.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a rear suspension great, and what can make it fall short?
- Build Quality: Precision machining and tight tolerances mean a suspension will perform better and last longer. Poorly made parts can lead to leaks or inconsistent damping.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often invest more in research and development, leading to better-performing and more reliable products.
- Serviceability: Can the suspension be rebuilt or serviced? Shocks that can be rebuilt will last much longer and allow for future tuning.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the suspension is rated for your typical load, including your weight, passenger, and any luggage. Exceeding this can damage the suspension and compromise safety.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How does good rear suspension feel, and when is it most important?
- Comfort: The most noticeable improvement is comfort. Bumps, potholes, and rough roads feel much smoother. Your back and your passenger will thank you!
- Handling: Better suspension improves how your bike handles in corners. It keeps the tires planted on the road for better grip and stability.
- Control: You’ll feel more in control of your motorcycle, especially when braking or accelerating. The bike will feel more planted and less likely to wobble.
- Long-Distance Riding: If you do a lot of touring, comfortable suspension is essential. It reduces fatigue and makes those long days in the saddle much more enjoyable.
- Carrying Loads: If you often ride with a passenger or carry luggage, upgraded suspension will prevent your bike from sagging and improve its handling.
Choosing the right rear suspension is an investment in your riding experience. Do your research, consider your needs, and you’ll be enjoying a smoother, more controlled ride in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of upgrading my Harley touring rear suspension?
A: The main benefit is a significant improvement in ride comfort and handling. You’ll feel fewer bumps and the bike will be more stable.
Q: Do I need special tools to install new rear suspension?
A: Yes, you will likely need some basic motorcycle tools, including wrenches and possibly a torque wrench. Some kits may require specific mounting hardware.
Q: Can I adjust the suspension myself?
A: Yes, most aftermarket suspension systems are designed for easy user adjustment of preload, compression, and rebound.
Q: How much does rear suspension for a Harley touring bike typically cost?
A: Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for basic upgrades to over a thousand dollars for high-performance, fully adjustable systems.
Q: Will changing my rear suspension affect my bike’s ground clearance?
A: Yes, depending on the adjustment or the specific model, it can either raise or lower your bike’s ride height.
Q: Is it better to get air suspension or coil-over shocks?
A: Air suspension offers more adjustability for ride height and load capacity, while coil-over shocks often provide a more direct and responsive feel.
Q: How do I know what spring rate I need?
A: The ideal spring rate depends on your weight, your passenger’s weight, and how much gear you typically carry. Many manufacturers offer guides to help you choose.
Q: Can I install rear suspension myself, or should I take it to a mechanic?
A: If you are comfortable working on your motorcycle and have the right tools, you can install it yourself. Otherwise, a qualified mechanic can do it for you.
Q: How often should rear suspension be serviced?
A: It’s a good idea to have your suspension inspected annually. If the suspension is rebuildable, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for fluid changes and seal replacements.
Q: Will upgraded rear suspension void my Harley’s warranty?
A: Modifying your suspension may affect your warranty, especially if the modification causes a problem. It’s best to check your warranty terms or consult with your dealer.
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.