As I always mess with things, I decided to replace my heavier oil 13" HD touring shocks with the standard height (13") Premium Ride Hand Adjustable ones (part #54000008).

I installed them right before a 2k mile trip on Highway 1. Not the smartest thing to do, as I do not like to make changes on the bike right before a trip but, I did it anyway...

To my surprise, the shocks performed perfectly. It is hard to describe, but after a day of riding, I realized that I did not notice the shocks at all. The bike rode smoothly and I did not even think about the shocks. This is an indication that they did what they were supposed to. They let me enjoy the ride. In addition, when I hit a few big bumps at high speeds, they did not hit hard. They bottomed out, as they should, but they were not harsh. I had the setting at 4-5 clicks softer than recommended and it was just right for me.

Overall, I love these shocks! They work better than the heavier oil touring shocks I had before, and are pretty easy to adjust.

Website Info: http://www.harley-davidson.com/gma/g...bmLocale=en_US

 

I installed the same shocks only for the Street Glide Height (slightly Lower) on my 2012 FLHX! I absolutely Luv the ride that they give! So does my passenger!

 

I've had the 13" premium ride shocks for at least 6 months. I weigh 220 lbs. and to be honest when it is just me I think they ride a little stiff. Now, when I load the bike and get my wife on the back I crank them up to 15-17 clicks and they ride great. Personnally I would have liked to have seen a little lighter spring on the adjustment side. Other than that they work really well.

 

I weigh 210 and I had a full tour pack. According to the manual, I should have been at around 8-9 clicks preload. I think I had it at 3 or 4 clicks and the ride was perfect. With one more click, it was firmer but not harsh. My intention was to start soft and, if I would bottom out a lot, I would increase the preload.

So, you might want to try a lower preload when riding single.

 

The full tourpak makes the difference for you. I don't know if the 12.5" shocks for the SG and RG Customs are sprung a little lighter or not since they don't come with a tourpak. I have tryed it with no preload and at 1-2 clicks, it is still kind of stiff. Like I said, if I'm two up with the Mrs. or loaded for travel it is all good.