Best Rear Shocks for Harley Davidson Touring Motorcycles

Steering my Harley Davidson Street Glide down a twisty backroad, I’ve always been acutely aware of how much the ride quality impacts the experience. It wasn’t until I upgraded my Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle’s rear shocks that I truly understood what I was missing. Those stock shocks? They’re fine for cruising, but hit a rough patch or load up with a passenger and gear, and you quickly learn their limitations. The right set of rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles can transform your ride from merely tolerable to genuinely enjoyable, offering better handling, improved comfort, and a smoother journey, no matter the road ahead. I’ve spent time researching and even hands-on with some of the top contenders, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned to help you pick the perfect set for your touring machine.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Mofun Black 13″ Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Compatible with…	View on Amazon
	The ROP Shop (2) Black 13″ Rear Shocks for…	View on Amazon
	Wai Danie 1 Pair 298mm 11.75″ Motorcycle Rear Shock…	View on Amazon
	Mofun 11.75″ Touring Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Preload…	View on Amazon
	Legend Suspensions 1310-0959 FL Touring Revo-A Black Rear…	View on Amazon
	XFMT Motorcycle Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit…	View on Amazon
	WeiSen 10.5″ Rear Shocks Preload Adjustable Lowering Kit -…	View on Amazon

1. Mofun Black 13″ Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Compatible with…

If you’re looking for a straightforward upgrade that retains a comfortable ride height while offering a noticeable improvement over stock, the Mofun 13″ shocks are a solid contender. These are designed to be a direct replacement, making installation a breeze for most home mechanics. They come with progressively wound springs which are crucial for adapting to different road conditions – softer initially for small bumps, then firmer as the compression increases for larger impacts. This design helps keep the ride feeling smooth without being overly bouncy, a common complaint with less refined shocks. Plus, the preload adjustability means you can fine-tune them for your weight or when carrying a passenger, making for a much more controlled and pleasant touring experience.

Key features that stand out:
– Eye to eye Length: 13 inch (330.2mm)
– Preload adjustable to tune to rider weight
– Progressively wound springs for a smooth, comfortable ride
– Easy bolt-on application
– Finish: Black Plating

Pros:
– Simple, direct bolt-on installation
– Preload adjustable for varying loads
– Progressively wound springs enhance comfort
– Affordable upgrade over stock
Cons:
– May not offer the advanced damping of higher-end options.

Best for: Riders seeking an affordable, easy-to-install upgrade that provides better comfort and adjustability than stock 13-inch shocks.

Expert Opinion: These Mofun 13-inch shocks are a great entry-level improvement for riders who want to maintain a standard ride height but gain better ride quality without breaking the bank. The progressive springs and preload adjustability are key benefits for the price.

2. The ROP Shop (2) Black 13″ Rear Shocks for…

The ROP Shop offers a no-nonsense, reliable replacement option for your Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle. These 13-inch black shocks are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, making them a dependable choice if you’re simply looking to replace worn-out stock units without any significant changes to your bike’s ride height or characteristics. While they might not boast the advanced features of more expensive aftermarket options, their strength lies in their dependability and direct fitment. They provide a consistent performance, restoring the ride feel you expect from a well-maintained touring bike. If you prioritize reliability and a straightforward replacement, these shocks certainly fit the bill.

Key features that stand out:
– 13″ Rear Suspension Shocks
– Designed for direct replacement
– Black finish
– Includes a pair of shocks

Pros:
– Reliable OEM-style replacement
– Straightforward installation
– Offers consistent ride performance
– Good value for a standard replacement
Cons:
– Lacks advanced adjustability or specific performance enhancements.

Best for: Riders needing a dependable, direct replacement for their worn-out 13-inch stock shocks without modifying ride height or characteristics.

Expert Opinion: These ROP Shop shocks are a solid, budget-friendly option if you’re just looking to get your Harley back to factory ride quality. Don’t expect dramatic performance gains, but do expect a reliable, hassle-free replacement.

3. Wai Danie 1 Pair 298mm 11.75″ Motorcycle Rear Shock…

For riders looking to achieve a slightly lower stance on their Harley, the Wai Danie 11.75″ shocks are a compelling option. These shocks are designed to lower your cycle by about 1.5 inches on many Sportster and FXR models, offering riders with shorter legs more confidence at stops. But it’s not just about lowering; they’re also built for durability with a carbon steel construction and a powder-coated finish for longevity. What truly stands out is the adjustable spring preload feature, which comes with a matching wrench, allowing you to customize the ride feel. They aim to reduce road bump and provide a smoother, safer ride while offering that desired lowered look, making your bike more accessible without sacrificing too much comfort.

Key features that stand out:
– Distance between eyes: 298MM / 11.75″
– Lowers bike approximately 1.5 inches
– Made of durable carbon steel with powder coating
– Adjustable spring preload (wrench included)
– Helps reduce road bump for comfort and safety

Pros:
– Effectively lowers your bike for better foot placement
– Durable construction for long-lasting performance
– Adjustable preload for customized comfort
– Good option for customization and low-profile riders
Cons:
– May feel slightly firmer due to reduced travel compared to 13″ shocks.

Best for: Riders prioritizing a lowered stance (about 1.5 inches) for easier foot placement and a custom look, while still wanting adjustable preload and good durability.

Expert Opinion: The Wai Danie 11.75-inch shocks are a great choice for those who want to lower their bike without compromising too much on ride quality. The adjustable preload is essential for getting the right feel, especially with a shorter shock.

4. Mofun 11.75″ Touring Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Preload…

The Mofun 11.75″ shocks offer a popular way to give your Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle a lower, sleeker profile. If you’re after that “slammed” look or simply need to get your feet flatter on the ground, these shocks can drop your rear end by about 1.25 inches compared to standard 13-inch shocks. Don’t let the shorter length fool you; they still feature preload adjustability to dial in the ride for your weight and cargo. With progressively wound springs and a sleek chrome plating, these shocks aim to offer a more comfortable ride than you might expect from a lowering kit, while also giving your bike a refreshed aesthetic. They’re designed for easy bolt-on installation, making the transformation relatively simple.

Key features that stand out:
– Eye to eye Length: 11.75 inch
– Preload adjustable to tune to rider weight
– Progressively wound springs for a smooth, comfortable ride
– Finish: Chrome Plating
– Easy bolt-on application

Pros:
– Achieves a desirable lowered stance
– Preload adjustable for rider weight
– Progressively wound springs for improved comfort
– Easy to install
Cons:
– Shorter travel may result in a slightly firmer ride than 13-inch options.

Best for: Touring riders who want a noticeable drop (around 1.25 inches) for aesthetics or easier ground reach, prioritizing adjustability and a decent ride quality in a lowering shock.

Expert Opinion: These Mofun 11.75-inch shocks are a solid choice for lowering your touring bike. The progressive springs are a huge plus in a shorter shock, helping to mitigate the harsher ride often associated with lowering kits. Just be mindful of the reduced travel.

5. Legend Suspensions 1310-0959 FL Touring Revo-A Black Rear…

When it comes to high-performance rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles, Legend Suspensions is a name that consistently comes up, and their Revo-A line is a prime example. These 13-inch shocks are a significant upgrade, designed for riders who demand the best in terms of handling and ride quality. The standout feature is the six external knob adjustments for rebound, allowing you to fine-tune how quickly the shock extends after compression. This level of control means you can truly dial in your ride for different road conditions, riding styles, or loads. Hand-made in Sturgis, SD, with a lifetime warranty, these shocks are an investment in superior performance, offering an exceptionally controlled, comfortable, and responsive ride that transforms your touring experience.

Key features that stand out:
– 13″ Standard Spring Rate
– Six external knob adjustments for rebound
– Hard Black Anodize finish
– Lifetime Warranty
– Made by hand in Sturgis, SD USA

Pros:
– Superior ride quality and handling performance
– Highly adjustable rebound damping for fine-tuning
– Durable, high-quality construction with hard anodize
– Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons:
– A premium price point makes them a significant investment.

Best for: Serious touring riders and performance enthusiasts who prioritize superior handling, precise adjustability, and the absolute best ride quality, regardless of the higher cost.

Expert Opinion: The Legend Revo-A shocks are in a different league. The rebound adjustment is a game-changer for touring bikes, allowing incredible control over the suspension’s response. It’s a premium product with a price tag to match, but the performance gains are undeniable.

6. XFMT Motorcycle Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit…

For the ultimate in ride height flexibility and comfort, the XFMT Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit is truly something special. This comprehensive kit allows you to lower your bike 2 to 3 inches when fully deflated for that custom, slammed look, and then raise it back to stock ride height in seconds for a smooth, comfortable cruise. The system uses high-flow, high-pressure fittings and a manifold-style dump valve for optimal performance and quick adjustments. What’s even better is the claim that you can ride with zero air pressure without rubbing (on most ’09-later models), meaning you can literally cruise slammed. This kit offers an unparalleled level of customization, comfort, and cool factor for your Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle.

Key features that stand out:
– Fully height adjustable rear air suspension
– Lowers bike 2-3 inches, raises to stock height in seconds
– High-flow, high-pressure push-to-connect fittings
– Manifold-style dump valve block for optimum performance
– Ability to ride with zero air pressure without rubbing (on most models)

Pros:
– Unmatched adjustability for ride height on the fly
– Transforms bike’s look from slammed to standard
– Offers exceptional comfort when properly aired
– Comprehensive kit with all components included
Cons:
– Installation is more complex and involves additional components like an air compressor.

Best for: Customizers and riders who want maximum flexibility in ride height, a slammed look when parked, and the ability to adjust comfort for different road conditions and loads.

Expert Opinion: Air ride systems like this XFMT kit offer the pinnacle of adjustability for a touring bike. Being able to go from slammed to comfortable at the touch of a button is incredibly versatile. Just be prepared for a more involved installation process.

7. WeiSen 10.5″ Rear Shocks Preload Adjustable Lowering Kit -…

If your goal is to achieve the absolute lowest stance possible for your Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle, the WeiSen 10.5″ Rear Shocks are designed specifically for that purpose. These shocks are significantly shorter than stock, providing a substantial lowering of around 2.5 inches compared to typical 13-inch shocks. While this dramatically changes the look and helps those with a shorter inseam get their feet firmly on the ground, it’s important to note that the shorter travel will naturally make the riding experience a little rougher than with longer shocks. Despite the aggressive lowering, they still feature preload adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune them somewhat for your weight. With their easy bolt-on application and sleek chrome finish, they’re a popular choice for customizers focused on aesthetics.

Key features that stand out:
– Eye to Eye Length: 10.5 inch
– Significant lowering effect (approx. 2.5 inches)
– Preload adjustable to tune to rider weight
– Finish: Chrome Plating
– Easy Bolt-on Application

Pros:
– Provides a very aggressive, low-slung appearance
– Maximizes ground reach for shorter riders
– Preload adjustable for basic tuning
– Simple installation
Cons:
– Shorter travel inherently leads to a noticeably rougher ride quality.

Best for: Riders prioritizing the most significant lowering possible for their Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle for a custom look and maximum ground reach, understanding that ride comfort will be compromised.

Expert Opinion: The WeiSen 10.5-inch shocks deliver an extreme drop, which looks fantastic but comes at a cost to ride comfort. While they have preload adjustability, the reduced travel means you’ll feel more of the road. It’s a choice for aesthetics and low-rider stance over plush comfort.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles, it’s crucial to think about what kind of rider you are and what you prioritize. For those on a tighter budget who just want a better-than-stock ride without significant changes, the Mofun 13″ or ROP Shop 13″ options are excellent. They offer improved comfort or reliable replacement respectively, for a fair price. If lowering your bike is key for either aesthetics or better ground reach, you’ll be looking at the 11.75″ Mofun or Wai Danie shocks, or even the WeiSen 10.5″ for an extreme drop. Keep in mind that shorter shocks generally mean a firmer, potentially rougher ride due to less suspension travel.

However, if premium performance and adjustability are what you’re after, the Legend Revo-A shocks truly shine. They offer a level of ride control and refinement that simpler shocks can’t match, thanks to their advanced rebound adjustments. For the ultimate in on-the-fly ride height customization, the XFMT air ride kit stands alone, letting you go from slammed to touring-comfortable in mere seconds. It’s a more complex installation but offers unmatched versatility. Remember, the choice often comes down to balancing comfort, ride height, adjustability, and your budget.

Final Verdict

After poring over these options for Best Rear Shocks for Harley Davidson Touring Motorcycles, it’s clear that “best” really depends on your individual needs and riding style. If you’re a casual rider looking for an affordable and easy upgrade over stock for better comfort, either the Mofun 13″ or ROP Shop 13″ will serve you well. For those wanting that custom lowered look and easier ground reach, the Mofun 11.75″ or Wai Danie 11.75″ strike a good balance, with the WeiSen 10.5″ being the most aggressive lowering option at the expense of ride comfort.

But if you’re a serious touring enthusiast who demands top-tier handling and precise control, the Legend Revo-A shocks are an investment that pays dividends in every mile. And for the rider who wants it all – show-stopping adjustability, a slammed look, and comfortable touring height on demand – the XFMT Air Ride Kit is the undisputed champion. Ultimately, your choice in Harley Davidson touring motorcycle rear shocks will define your ride, so choose wisely based on what truly matters to you.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Why should I upgrade the rear shocks on my Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle?
A1: Upgrading your rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles can dramatically improve ride comfort, handling, and stability. Stock shocks often lack the adjustability and advanced damping to handle varied road conditions, passenger weight, or heavy loads effectively. Better shocks reduce bottoming out, provide a smoother ride over bumps, and enhance your bike’s overall responsiveness.

Q2: What’s the main difference between 13-inch and 11.75-inch (or shorter) rear shocks?
A2: The length refers to the eye-to-eye measurement. 13-inch shocks typically maintain a stock ride height and generally offer more suspension travel, leading to a softer, more comfortable ride. Shorter shocks (like 11.75″ or 10.5″) will lower your bike, improving ground reach and giving a custom “slammed” look. However, this reduced travel often results in a firmer, potentially rougher ride, as there’s less room for the shock to absorb impacts.

Q3: Are adjustable preload shocks worth it for Harley Touring bikes?
A3: Absolutely! Preload adjustability is highly beneficial for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles as it allows you to fine-tune the spring compression to match your weight, a passenger’s weight, or any cargo you’re carrying. This helps maintain proper sag, prevents bottoming out, and ensures a more consistent and comfortable ride, regardless of your load.

Q4: How do air ride suspension kits compare to traditional spring shocks?
A4: Air ride kits, like the XFMT system, offer unparalleled on-the-fly adjustability. You can raise or lower your bike to your desired height with the push of a button, which is impossible with traditional spring shocks. This means you can have a slammed look when parked and a comfortable, stock ride height while cruising. They generally provide a very plush ride when properly adjusted, but installation is more complex and involves an air compressor.

Q5: Can I install new rear shocks on my Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle myself?
A5: Many standard replacement rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles are designed for easy bolt-on installation, making it a feasible DIY project for those with basic mechanical skills and tools. However, for more complex systems like air ride kits or high-performance shocks requiring precise tuning, professional installation is recommended. Always refer to your bike’s service manual and the shock manufacturer’s instructions.

Q6: Will lowering my Harley Davidson Touring bike affect its handling?
A6: Yes, lowering your bike, especially significantly, can affect its handling. A lower rear end changes the geometry, potentially altering steering response and cornering clearance. While it can make flat-footing easier, extremely short shocks (e.g., 10.5″) will have reduced suspension travel, leading to a harsher ride and less ability to absorb bumps, which can impact comfort and control on rough roads. It’s a trade-off between aesthetics/ground reach and ride quality/performance.

Q7: How much should I expect to spend on the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles?
A7: The price range for rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring motorcycles varies widely. Basic replacement or entry-level lowering shocks can range from $150-$300. Mid-range performance shocks often fall between $400-$800. Premium, highly adjustable shocks like the Legend Revo-A, or full air ride suspension kits, can easily cost $1,000-$2,000 or more. Your budget will largely dictate the level of performance and features you can get.