We rode the Tail of the Dragon and on the way back we rode over some very bumpy back roads down by the Great River Road. By the time I got home my shoulders and back were killing me (my buddy also rides a 2021 Tri-Glide and he was saying the same thing).
So we figured we need to do something other than shocks, seat/backrest, and lower rear tire air pressure.

I talked to a couple of riders who have converted their straight axle to independent suspension along with adding a raked triple-tree.
I did the triple-tree mod to my 2013 but nothing so far to my 2021.
They said they'd never have another trike without IRS - it makes that much difference.
I have no clue since I've never ridden one that has IRS.

Spoke to Kool Trikes in Clarksville, TX (Randy Butler) about their Independent Suspension and he gave me a ton of information as to why to go with his particular product (seemed to know what he was talking about). He also suggested a 10-degree triple-tree over a 9-degree one.

It's spendy but if it'll help save my back and shoulders it might be worth the investment.
We're planning another 5,000 mile ride for next summer.

Does anyone out there in trike land have any information or know anything about Kool Trikes Independent Suspension (good or bad).
Since it is spendy we both want to make sure we make the best decision possible - not interested in just throwing away that kind of cash.

Thanks!

 

Before I jumped that far for a solution I would look into setups like DK has with 14" coil over shocks and bracket. Many have reported very good results.

 

How spendy is it?

 

Your sore back and shoulders aren’t due to the rough road. They are due to having to muscle the TriGlide in turns. Still, my ride improved significantly when I replaced my stock shocks with Progressives.

 

This is what I found when I had a tri glide. BRP wore me out and I couldn't wait to trade it in on a FW. I don't know how it is different, I just know that for me the steering is less intensive on my back and shoulders. JMMV

 

Check their web site but as I remember it's about 1k for the ultimate comfort package.

Another point is it's easier to push than pull but do both using the push action more. Twisting at the hip to use body force in conjunction with arm/shoulder can make it much easier.

Be sure your handle bar height and seat are correct for your body size to give you optimal position. You can google that to more detailed information.

 

I solve the harsh ride, and sore shoulders, by going back to a 2 wheel Ultra Limited.

 

IRS 5495.00 Installation extra.

 

I don’t think it will change the way your bike feels riding the tail of the dragon. It’s a trike, no matter what you do to it it will minimally improve the work you have to input to turn a beast that size on a road like TODD. Or the cherohala for that matter.. my opinion.
I installed the 14” with comfort lift kit fro DK and it rides better but still a beast to turn compared to my FLHTC.

 

I did the raked front end with a 21" wheel. It has made steering much easier.