Do you know if 12 inch chrome after-market Road King shocks (Listed on eBay as "CHROME Lowering Kit Shocks Harley Road King 1997-2011") will work the same as RK takeoff shocks or are they different? I have a 2009 XL1200C and I'm thinking of putting RK shocks on and want to go with 12 inch. I noticed that the eBay lowering kit shocks appear cheaper than the equivalent 12 inch black takeoff shocks.

Thanks,
Sporty

 

Size wise Yes, quality is another thing. But yes they will fit.

 

Thanks! I really appreciate your thoughts and info! I was worried that the quality or the ride might not be as good, so think I'll stick with the proven and go with takeoffs.


Sporty

 

Any thoughts on buying 13 inch shocks and then adding lowering kit versus just getting 12 inch shocks and forgetting lowering kit? The only reason I ask is that the 13 inch takeoff shocks seem to be going for a lot lower price on eBay than the 12 inch shocks.

Thanks,
Sporty

 

Just wondering what the difference is between the 54635-09 and the 54631-02B low profile shocks. Maybe just a mounting dimension for the different model years? Niether are meant to fit a Sportster so maybe its doesnt matter.
Some Sportster mounting comments mentioned that you have to add washers, is that because the shock is a larger diameter and you have to get it out away from the frame/guard/etc?
I have not liked the 1200 Custom OEM shock performance so the idea of the RK shocks seem better than spending $400-$600 on Progressives/Works and others.

 

Personally I dont like the angle of the longer shock with the lowering kit. And you still loose the travel length too.

I believe the difference between the two part numbers is just the model they came off of. As far as I can tell they are virtually the same. And the reason for the washers is yes the air shock have a larger diameter body and will hit the top belt guard that will then rub your rear pulley. Either take both washers and move them to the bottom or toss the guard.

 

The stock shocks on my XL1200R are, I believe, 13.5", correct? Would a set of 12" air shocks just bolt right on without needing any other modification? Does the XL-C use 12" stock shocks?

 

I think you are correct in that the R is 13.5. Custom XL are 11.5 shocks.
I would say to keep your current ride height and configuration get the 13" FL shocks. 1/2 inch is not going to be that noticeable.

 

I was thinking of getting 12" shocks instead, for both the aesthetic and functional reasons. I just wanted to make sure they could bolt right on without any issues.

Not 100% sure yet though...

 

I have an 09' Nightster and looking to go to air shocks. I can get the shocks listed below for a good price, just wondering if the "lowered" model will do what I want. Looking to eliminate bottoming and obviously improve the ride. Are these a good option or should I go taller?

54661-02A Road King FLHR Street Glide 12" single shock "lowered"

Thanks