I bought Ohlins from Howard (Motorcycle Metal) in 2012 for my 2011 Road Glide Ultra. I have since used the same shocks on my 2014 Limited, 2014 CVO Limited, 2017 CVO Limited, 2019 Limited and now the 2020 Road Glide Limited. There has been at least 100% better ride and handling on the Ohlins, I did send them out for a rebuild at 75K, only changed the oil, gas and seals (never leaked). I have also used the torque cam in 2 of the bikes and the Tri-Glide, a excellent choice for heavy bikes and two up. For me the suspension first, it will let you ride faster with better handling. The newer Showa shocks work much better than the old air bags but there is always room for improvement.

 

yes, my bike came with the hand adjustable shocks. I don’t know if the specials shocks are upgraded from the standard but I’m assuming they are the same.

 

I live in Arizona and for the most part, the roads are pretty well maintained. We do have a lot of road tar snakes that get really soft in the heat. I also ride a lot in California, Colorado, Utah and Nevada. I’m fortunate to have a year round riding season. We tend to do early morning or late night rides during the summer where it gets up to 115-120 degrees.

 

Here are my dilemmas, I broke my back in 06 and broke my neck in 2018 and have had 4 failed back surgeries and a successful neck surgery. The stock suspension isn’t bad to me but it’s not great. If upgrading the suspension would eliminate the painful shock I get if I hit a bump or pothole that would be a big plus. Also, with my wife on the back and the tour pack loaded, I feel that the stock suspension bottoms out hitting said bumps and potholes.

as for the stage 2, the 114 has plenty of power and rides at 3000 rpms at 85mph. I would like more power from a stop and getting up to freeway speeds. I don’t ride in the 4500 rpms which is where the house cam shines, so the torque cams are what I’m looking at. A stage 2 is the highest stage upgrade I’d do as when this engine dies, I’ll throw the 131 in it.

I appreciate all the opinions and suggestions! Keep them coming.

 

I have both of these mods on my 2018 Road Glide. The Legend Revos are far and away the best mod. I love the torque cam but my wife loves the shocks. They just gobble up the rough roads with out a problem. Everytime I would hit a big bump she would tense up and I would hear her say ouch. It took her a bit to stop tensing up but now she doesnt even look for the bumps. Enjoy both are great mods.

 

In all sincerity, with a history or a broken back and broken neck, is a Harley the right bike for you?

The Indian Roadmaster and Honda Goldwing are far better riding machines.

 

The Specials come with 12 shocks in the back. 1" shorter than the other bikes. That means you only have about 2 to 2 1/4" of travel. I put 13" RS1's on my RGS and they have 4" of travel. Much more comfortable.

 

I’ve been riding Harleys for over 30 years. Actually, the only street bike I’ve ever owned or ridden. Even with a bad back and neck, I’ll stick with Harley.

 

The Goldwing is the most uncomfortable bike I have ever ridden. The flat 6 gives you no room to stretch out unless you spread your legs like you are giving birth.

 

Same. Over 18,000 miles and I really don't see the problem.

Seat, yes. Suspension, no.