Upgrading your Harley touring rear shock can really improve your ride. A good rear shock makes you more comfortable, especially on long trips. You might ask if you should pick OE-Plus options or premium rebuildable kits. Each choice has its own benefits. It’s important to think about your riding style and what you like. Knowing about these upgrades will help you make a smart choice for your motorcycle.
Key Takeaways
Upgrading to OE-Plus shocks makes riding more comfortable. They give a smoother ride without costing too much.
Premium rebuildable kits let you change settings for damping and rebound. This helps riders perform better on rough roads.
Think about how you ride when picking shocks. OE-Plus is good for casual rides. Premium kits are better for advanced features.
Taking care of shocks is very important. Check for damage and change settings to keep performance and comfort high.
Kingham‘s aftermarket shocks give great stability and control. They work with many Harley models and are easy to adjust.
OE-Plus Options
Features of OE-Plus Shocks
OE-Plus shocks have many features that make your ride better. These shocks usually include:
Improved Damping: OE-Plus shocks absorb bumps and vibrations better than standard ones. This gives you a smoother ride.
Progressive Suspension: Many OE-Plus shocks use a progressive suspension design. This helps the shock adjust to different road conditions. It works well whether you are on the highway or on rough roads.
Adjustable Settings: Some OE-Plus models have adjustable settings for preload, rebound, and compression damping. This lets you change the suspension to fit your riding style and weight.
Benefits of OE-Plus Upgrades
Upgrading to OE-Plus rear shocks can greatly improve your motorcycle’s performance. Here are some main benefits:
Enhanced Comfort: With better damping and suspension design, you will feel less tired on long rides. The shocks take in road bumps, so you can enjoy your trip without pain.
Better Handling: OE-Plus shocks help your bike handle better, especially when turning and stopping. You will feel more stable and in control, making your rides safer and more fun.
Cost-Effective Solution: OE-Plus upgrades often give you a good mix of performance and price. They improve your ride more than stock shocks without the high costs of premium rebuildable kits.
Premium Rebuildable Kits
Advantages of Premium Kits
Premium rebuildable kits have many benefits that make your ride better. Here are some important advantages:
Improved Handling: You will feel better control and more grip, especially when turning. This makes your ride feel more secure.
Comfort on Impact: These kits handle strong bumps well. You will have a smoother ride, even on bumpy roads.
Customization: You can change the length and stroke of the shocks to fit your needs. This lets you adjust the suspension to match your riding style.
Enhanced Ride Quality: With better damping control, you will have more grip and stability. This is important for staying in control at high speeds.
Customization Options Available
When it comes to customization, premium rebuildable kits are great. You can pick from many options to match your likes:
Super Shox Series: This series has three choices: Premier SR1, Premium SR2, and Platinum RR1. Each one fits different needs, from stock setups to longer travel.
DK Custom NEXGEN™ Shocks: These shocks are specially tuned for each bike. They have auto-adjusting damping for a better ride.
CNC-Machined Components: Made with strong materials, these shocks last longer. The gas-charged system helps reduce shock fade, improving performance.
Adjustability: You can adjust rebound and compression settings. This helps you get the best comfort or performance based on your riding conditions.
With these choices, you can create shocks that match your riding style. Premium rebuildable kits not only improve your bike’s performance but also add a personal touch to your ride.
Comparing Harley Touring Rear Shocks
Performance Differences
When you look at OE-Plus and premium rebuildable shocks, you see clear performance differences. The table below shows these differences:
Metric | OE-Plus Shocks | Premium Rebuildable Shocks |
|---|---|---|
Damping | Not specified | Adjustable |
Rebound | Not specified | Adjustable |
Ride Comfort | Similar | Better than stock shocks |
Fine Tuning Adjustment | No | Yes |
Pre-load Adjustment | No | Yes |
You can see that premium rebuildable shocks have adjustable damping and rebound settings. This lets you change your suspension for different riding conditions. On the other hand, OE-Plus shocks do not offer this kind of customization. If you care about ride comfort and handling, premium rebuildable shocks perform better than OE-Plus options.
Cost Considerations
Cost is an important part of your decision. OE-Plus shocks usually cost less. They give you a good mix of performance and price. But if you want advanced features and customization, premium rebuildable kits might cost more.
Think about the long-term benefits of each choice. While OE-Plus shocks can save you money now, premium rebuildable shocks can greatly improve your riding experience. Spending on quality suspension can lead to better handling and comfort, especially on long trips.
Suitability for Different Riding Styles
Your riding style affects which shock option is best for you. If you like casual rides and some long trips, OE-Plus shocks might work for you. They give better comfort and handling without costing too much.
However, if you ride often on tough terrains or enjoy spirited rides, premium rebuildable shocks are a better fit. Their adjustability lets you customize the suspension to fit your riding style. You can change the shocks for different conditions, ensuring the best performance and comfort.
Kingham’s Aftermarket Motorcycle Shocks
Kingham’s Rear Shock Absorbers
Kingham’s rear shock absorbers are known for their quality and performance. These aftermarket motorcycle shocks are made just for Harley Touring motorcycles. Here are some important features that make them a good choice for riders:
Triple Adjustable Models: You can change compression damping, rebound damping, and spring preload separately. This lets you adjust your ride for different conditions.
Performance and Flexibility: These shocks work well on different road types and riding styles. You can set them up to fit your needs.
Stability and Control: Kingham’s shocks give you a stable and controlled ride. You will feel more secure on the road, whether you are cruising or riding on rough paths.
Kingham’s rear shock absorbers also use a nitrogen-charged monotube design. This design helps with heat dissipation and keeps damping steady. You will enjoy consistent performance, even on long trips.
Compatibility with Harley-Davidson Models
Kingham’s aftermarket motorcycle shocks fit many Harley-Davidson models. This means you can upgrade your suspension without worrying about fitting problems. Here’s a quick look at how Kingham’s shocks compare to OE-Plus and premium rebuildable kits:
Feature | Kingham’s Rear Shock Absorbers | OE-Plus / Premium Rebuildable Kits |
|---|---|---|
Yes | N/A | |
Nitrogen-Charged Monotube Design | Yes | N/A |
Tool-free Adjustment | Yes | N/A |
Fade-free Damping | Yes | N/A |
With these features, Kingham’s shocks are a big upgrade over standard options. You can expect better handling and comfort on your rides. The hydraulic preload adjustability makes it easy to change settings for different conditions.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing OE-Plus Shocks
Installing OE-Plus shocks is easy. Just follow these steps:
Gather Tools: You need basic tools like a socket set, torque wrench, and a jack.
Lift the Motorcycle: Use a jack to lift your bike safely. Make sure it is stable before you start.
Remove Old Shocks: Unbolt the old shocks from their spots. Keep the hardware for later.
Install New Shocks: Place the OE-Plus shocks in position and secure them with the original bolts. Be sure to torque them to the manufacturer’s specs.
Check Alignment: Make sure everything lines up correctly before lowering the bike.
Installing Premium Rebuildable Kits
Installing premium rebuildable kits takes a bit more care. Here’s how to do it:
Prepare Your Workspace: Make sure you have a clean, bright area to work.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Each kit may have special installation steps. Always check the manual.
Remove Old Shocks: Just like with OE-Plus, carefully unbolt the old shocks.
Install New Shocks: Place the new shocks and secure them. Pay attention to any adjustments needed for preload or damping.
Test the Setup: After installation, check the settings and adjust them based on your riding style.
Maintenance Best Practices
To keep your shocks working well, follow these maintenance tips:
Regularly check shocks for signs of wear, like leaks or rust.
Clean shocks and make sure they are lubricated to avoid dirt buildup and rust.
Adjust preload settings based on riding conditions to keep balance and reduce stress on the suspension.
Watch for signs that show maintenance is needed:
Clunking sounds
Uneven tire wear
Too much vibration
By following these tips, you can improve ride comfort, cornering, and overall stability and control.
When picking between OE-Plus and premium rebuildable kits, think about the main differences. OE-Plus shocks give you better comfort and handling for less money. They are great for casual riders. Premium rebuildable kits offer more customization and better performance. They are best for riders who want a special experience.
Consider your riding style. Do you like easy rides or tough roads? Your choice should match what you need. If you are not sure, ask a professional. Experts can help you choose the best option for your motorcycle.
FAQ
What are OE-Plus shocks?
OE-Plus shocks are better parts for your bike’s suspension. They help make your ride more comfortable and improve handling. These shocks have better damping, a special design for different road conditions, and some models let you change settings for preload, rebound, and compression.
How do premium rebuildable kits differ from OE-Plus options?
Premium rebuildable kits let you adjust damping and rebound settings. This means you can customize your ride more. They perform better and handle well compared to OE-Plus shocks, which usually do not have these extra features.
Can I install these shocks myself?
Yes, you can put in both OE-Plus and premium rebuildable shocks by yourself. Just follow the instructions from the manufacturer closely. Make sure you have the right tools and a safe place to work.
How often should I maintain my shocks?
Check your shocks often for any wear or leaks. Clean them and adjust the settings based on how you ride. Regular maintenance helps keep them working well and makes them last longer.
Are Kingham shocks compatible with all Harley-Davidson models?
Kingham shocks fit many Harley-Davidson models, like the Road King and Street Glide. Always check if they work with your specific model before buying.
