I have been selling and installing Arnott Air Ride for about 3 plus years now. I have zero complaints with the product. With that said Air Ride regardless of the company is not for everyone. I have found that most of the air ride systems like to have more weight on them for a better ride. Case in point, my bike has a softer ride with the Tour Pack on and loaded for a week long trip. Flying solo the ride is a little firmer, sport type feel. Since it is air ride it is adjustable to a degree. Originally the notion was to dump air to gain a softer ride while I have found the opposite to be true. Granted to much air makes for a rigid type ride. I agree with the previously posted comment in regards to a gauge. Without one I found myself searching for the sweet spot. With the gauge I inflate to my desired number and adjust accordingly.

The different shocks offered from Arnott Air are similar with the main difference being the adjust ability on the Aldan's. The adjustment is fine for those that are really looking to fine tune their suspension. I have the non adjustable version.

With all of the different brands on the market their are differences in the shocks. Arnott runs an air over oil shock as opposed to a simple air cylinder. Some brands use dual air to inflate and deflate. Others use air over a spring. They all work similar in principal. Which is best? That is an end user decision.

 

Hey pled I got them installed from the dealer when my bike was new because I am 5'6'' and needed more reach on my '09 UC. The only thing I didn't like at first was they put a spring loaded toggle switch down where I couldn't reach it.I bought the handlebar switch and I love the system. I pull up to a stop and drop about 3" out of the back in a matter of about 2 seconds. I ride it just off of the bottom for around town then when I hit the highway I can pump it to my comfort level.Also good when bike is loaded for a trip you can adjust the level on the fly. JMHO

 

I love the Arnott system on my 09 UC. I can stand flat footed with it lowered slightly and can drop it when on an incline going from side to side. No more tippee toes. I bought a center stand for a lowered bike from Wheeldock. When my bike is raised to stock height I can lower my stand with no pressure then drop the bike down on it. Love it. If I let all the air out there is no way some jerk can come by and bump it off the stand. I always park this way, when on hard top, even for gas. On sand or gravel it is back to jiffy stand. When on the jiffy stand I park it slammed. You have low clearance under the bike with a center stand so I raise it when I see speed bumps. I also raise it in the twisties. Lowered will scrape the floorboards. I lower it when I see sand or gravel for better footing. Best thing I have added to this Ultra. Mention this forums. They gave me 10% off about 15 months ago.

 

I want this system for my 08 Street Glide What is the going cost for this system today??I also have 2 buddys that want it do they offer a discount if ya buy 3.

 

If you are looking for the same comfort level as stock then stay with stock. If you need a little tighter or looser ride then change your shock oil. The Arnott system will give you a stiffer ride and not much better on the adjustable ones. The only good part is the height adjustment, but it comes with a price. Last month I tried 4 different systems, I went back to stock with an onboard compressor and a damn lowering kit.
I hope this helps.

 

I have no problem with the comfort. I ride all day with several groups with no problem. If you want a softer ride let air out. Firmer ride put air in. I would not want a permently lowered 09 UC. They don't come with much clearance at stock height. If lowered and cornering you really drag your floorboards. About the discounts you will have to call them. 1-800-251-8993. They do systems for Cadalac, Jag, Lincoln and Beemer. If its good enough for them then it is good enough for me. I don't race on a track or do motocross and don't need any specialty system. System is exactly what I needed.

 

thanks again for all the great info.i get the impression that the majority have had very good expriences with this product.and that has brought me to the conclusion that this is what i want .pricey yes ,but it will do the job i'm after. with the air pressure gage that puzzled showed in his post will make finding that sweet spot much easier.ride safe

 

While I dont have Arnotts on the UC, I have them on the Rod. Thought I would chime in and give props to Arnotts customer service/ post sale help. From all the vendors I have ever delt with, these guys are the best. I thought I had a problem with one component of the system, they sent me a new one, no questions asked. When I asked for a custom bump stop to lower the bike, they took care of it no charge. 5 year warranty and they go out of the way to keep you happy. If you buy these, your in great hands. Corey is the motorcycle guy at Arnott, give him a call if you have any questions.

Edit 1/15/2012
I put the Arnott system on the Ultra and have had it on for the past 1.5 years, no issues as I expected. Ride is great, install easy (I have the bracket that attaches to the bag support behind the left bag. While not in the same class as Ohlins, for people wanting to get the bike low for short legs or the slammed look, this is a great system. I installed it to keep from hitting my extended rear fender on tall Chicago curbs when backing into parking spots.

 

Can you elaborate on this? When you say the Aldans are adjustable, do you mean manually? Or are there multiple switches on the Aldan kit, like one for ride height and one for stiffness? My buddy has a setup like this on his softail and I like it.

Im considering the Aldan kit, but If the Aldan kit doesnt have on the fly adjustability for fine tune/stiffness, only on the fly ride height, Ill just buy the Bilstiens

 

Air ride system components are prone to failure - shock seals/bags, solenoid assembly, compressor, air lines/fittings, switches. Who wants to be miles away from home with a hardtail bagger? Best suited for bar hoppers!