Definitely need to adjust the preload. Back it off to the lightest setting and go from there. Suspension has to be played with until you get it where you want it. I agree, stock HD shocks aren't all that great, but even at that, they're better than Progressive in my opinion. It mostly depends on what you want out of your bike. If you're a cruiser, then the stock suspension can be tweaked enough to get you somewhat satisfied. But if you're a hard rider...stock ain't gonna cut it.
When adjusting, Rounder is right, counter clockwise to lessen, clockwise to increase preload. Really simple, increasing preload compresses it, making it stiffer...lessening softens.

 

+1 to Dyna stock shocks being ****. No amount of adjusting will change that.

My 2c.

 

MZ...your bike is gettin better and better. How do you like it these days?

 

Thanks! Well, it's been a lot of work, but I think it's ready. I'm actually happier with it than I thought I would be when I first started riding it. The suspension, brakes, tires and TT have put it right where I want it.

Only about 5 weeks until I take it to the dragon, and then we'll see what it's really made of!

 

looking down . On the exhaust side turn towards the front of the bike. Primary side turn towards the rear of the bike.

 

Stoopid question from a newbie, but how do you adjust the shocks? Had my 09 Street Bob for about 3 weeks now (first bike). Do you have to compress the shock to get to the adjustment nut or what.

Enjoyning the bike and the site.

 

shock spanner wrench. Your dealer should have em. They're about 10 bucks.

 

Thanks... Just gotta a spanner wrench. The one I have won't fit.

 

Cool, thanks for the info. Gonna pick up a spanner wrench from my dealer (I hear they are like $11 or so) and work on getting it at least better this weekend (not looking for perfect, but gotta be better than being airborne over bumps, LOL)

 

What ever you do, do not spend more than $11 or so on the tool. Someone posted a while ago that their dealer was pushing a $60 wrench...