I've got a question about shock performance and what would make the ride smoother. I've got an '06 Custom with stock shocks and seat. The shocks are on the 4th setting (that's where they were when I bought the bike second hand). The problem is that the ride can be very jarring (and can hurt my back after even a short while) and I'd like to smooth it out a bit without softening up the suspension in the process, make it not quite a Ferrari but not a Caddy, either.

Will adjusting the setting on the stock shocks do this or do I need to move to Progressives or something? Can I make it a little less jarring without sacrificing it's holding in turns?

Views, opinions, experience, advice all appreciated (even the jack a$$ stuff!! )
Cheers!

 

Go ahead and soften the shocks. I ride in #2 setting (second from the softest) and I'm 5-11, 200. The only time I dump it to the third slot is when I'm gonna shread the twisties. The only downside to softening the shocks is they will bottom out on big bumps, but the overall ride is much better. It's a tradeoff

 

OK, I'll try that first. That's the kind of input I was looking for. I'm not heavy (170 lbs) but it does seem that it's either bottoming out or the absorbtion is just too abrupt. So, I take it from your post that you'll adjust the shocks routinely based on the ride you plan to do? I always thought of them as more of a "set and forget" kind of thing. Am I misguided?

 

I think besides the seat the shocks will be the second thing I replace on my nightster. I seem to bottom out on a small hole in the ground and I am only 180 5'10. I guess I should mess around with the settings as well.

 

Yeah, the stock shocks suck, on any setting.

New shocks are about #5 on my list of things to replace/upgrade. A good after-market seat ought to make a big difference, too.

 

I put my shocks all the way up, I no longer bottom out.
I also got a new seat that has more dense foam, realy helps!

 

first harley sportster shocks are JUNK, a longer shock works better, i first replaced my stock 06 lo shocks with 12.5 in 418 progressive units nice ride and these are for sale because i now run a reservoir 13.5 in shock to match my 03 sportster sport forks

 

If you wait a week or so, I'll tell you how my new springs work...

I ordered some 15" Progressive 413's. I'm hoping they'll handle my rotund eating habits AND my aggressive riding style *grin*

The fact they're a touch taller and might give me an extra degree or two of cornering clearance never crossed my mind...

But, yeah, the stock springs blow dogs for quarters.

 

where did you get 13.5" reservoir shocks?

 

The reservoir shocks are stock on the 03 XL1200S model and you still may be able to buy them at a Harley dealer. I do happen to have a pair which I might be talked out of at a reasonable price. However if you want new shocks you should try the Progressive Suspension 418's.
KK