Have you ever finished a long day of riding your Harley-Davidson only to feel like you just went ten rounds in a boxing ring? Many touring riders accept back pain and stiff joints as the “price of admission” for the open road. However, your bike’s stock suspension is often the real culprit behind that bone-jarring ride. Upgrading to Öhlins shocks is the gold standard for transforming a harsh, bumpy experience into a smooth, luxury-level cruise.
Choosing the perfect set of Öhlins for your specific Harley model can feel overwhelming. With confusing spring rates, adjustable settings, and different ride heights, it is easy to pick the wrong setup and waste your hard-earned money. You want a better ride, but you need to make sure you get it right the first time. The wrong choice leaves you with a bike that handles poorly or bottoms out on every pothole.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to pick the right suspension for your touring machine. We simplify the technical jargon and explain how to match the right shock to your unique riding style and passenger load. By the time you finish reading, you will have the confidence to choose the perfect upgrade. Let’s dive into the details and get your Harley ready for the smoothest miles of your life.
Top Ohlins Shocks For Harley Touring Recommendations
- Fits: 2014-2026 Harley Touring Models (Road King, Road Glide, Electra Glide, Street Glide, Ultra)
- Ohlins HD 779
- 13" Length- Standard Spring Rate- 150-500 lbs
- Brackets for reservoirs included
- Blackine shocks, black hoses, gold reservoirs
- 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
- Ohlins FKC 101 Ohlins Front Fork Cartridges for All Harley Davidson FLH/FLT Touring Motorcycles 1999-2013
The Ultimate Guide to Ohlins Shocks for Harley Touring
Upgrading your Harley Touring bike’s suspension is one of the best investments you can make. Ohlins is the gold standard for motorcycle handling and comfort. These shocks transform a stock ride into a smooth, controlled experience. If you spend long hours in the saddle, this guide helps you choose the right set.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for Ohlins, focus on three main features: adjustability, dampening, and sag.
- Adjustability: Look for shocks with adjustable preload and rebound. This allows you to fine-tune the suspension for your weight and passenger load.
- Dampening Technology: High-end Ohlins shocks use advanced valving. This technology reacts quickly to bumps and keeps your tires planted on the road.
- Reservoirs: Piggyback reservoirs are common on performance models. They keep the oil cool, which prevents “shock fade” during long, aggressive rides.
Important Materials
Ohlins builds its shocks using high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum. This material is strong, lightweight, and resists corrosion. The internal components, such as steel shafts and precision-machined pistons, ensure a long lifespan. These shocks are built to handle the heavy weight of a Harley Touring bike without bending or failing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your ride depends on how you set up the shocks.
- Improvement: Proper “sag” setup is vital. Sag is how much the bike settles under your weight. When you set the sag correctly, the shock works in the middle of its travel. This provides the most comfort.
- Reduction: Buying the wrong spring rate is a common mistake. If the spring is too soft, you will bottom out. If it is too stiff, the ride will feel harsh and jittery. Always check your total rider weight before purchasing.
User Experience and Use Cases
Ohlins shocks cater to two main types of riders. First, there is the Touring Rider. These users want to eliminate back pain. Ohlins soaks up potholes and expansion joints, making 500-mile days feel easy.
Second, there is the Performance Bagger Rider. These riders want to lean their bikes harder in corners. Ohlins provides the stability needed to take turns with confidence. Whether you are cruising down the highway or carving up mountain passes, these shocks offer a noticeable upgrade over stock air shocks.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Ohlins shocks worth the high price?
A: Yes. They offer superior comfort and safety compared to stock Harley shocks.
Q: Can I install these shocks by myself?
A: Most riders can install them in under an hour. You only need basic hand tools and a motorcycle jack.
Q: How do I choose the right spring rate?
A: You must choose based on your body weight and how often you carry a passenger. Most retailers provide a weight chart to help you.
Q: Do I need to service them often?
A: Ohlins shocks last a long time, but they should be serviced every 20,000 miles to keep the oil and seals in good shape.
Q: Will these shocks lower my bike?
A: Ohlins offers both standard and lowered shock lengths. Choose the length that fits your riding style and seat height.
Q: Do I need special tools to adjust them?
A: Most Ohlins shocks come with an adjustment tool. You can adjust the preload by hand or with a simple wrench.
Q: Will they improve my cornering?
A: Absolutely. They reduce bike wallowing in corners and provide much better grip.
Q: Can I use them with a heavy tour pack?
A: Yes. Just make sure to increase the preload setting to account for the extra weight.
Q: Are they better than air shocks?
A: Yes. Ohlins coil-over shocks provide a more consistent feel and do not leak air like stock bags.
Q: Should I buy a remote reservoir?
A: If you ride aggressively or in very hot climates, a remote reservoir helps the shock perform better for longer periods.