Okay I have tried the DYI air ride and it didn't work out, maybe I expected too much or had too much pressure what ever. Now I still want air ride that I can depend on for a 6K mile trip. My wife has neck problems and would ride more if the bike didn't jam her neck when I hit that bridge @ 80. So is Legend, Arnotts, or something else the way to go for that true air ride feel?

 

I think you will find a lot of responses up in the touring section. I have just put Ohlins on my bike. Can't say enough about how great they are. They are not air ride but bumps are so smooth now no jamming rides like a Cadillac. Most popular shocks seem to be AXEO,Progressive or Ohlins. You will find some people very passionate about there choices. I have done a lot of research on this stuff. All I can say is I am happy with my choice. Good luck. As a side note my bike is a 2011. Almost the same bike.

 

What your DIY system was missing is good quality damping. Unfortunately that is a problem with many of the aftermarket shocks sold to Harley owners. If you want Mrs H to have a comfortable ride with the least possible discomfort I endorse Budda's suggestion - skip the rest and go to Ohlins. I have had mine for several years.

Why are they so good? While riding you will be surprised how much road 'noise' is passed up into the bike through the tyres. Our Ohlins suppressed that to such a degree that we noticed! It means we can ride longer each day and still be ready the following morning. Everything we ride over is damped down and made much more comfortable, even bad railroad crossings. On top of that the bike corners and holds the road better.

I suggest you phone HDF sponsor Howard at Motorcycle Metal, as he started all this (and offers us members discounts)!