Best Rear Shocks for Harley Touring Motorcycles

As a Harley touring rider, I know firsthand the difference a great set of shocks can make. There’s nothing worse than hitting a pothole and feeling it jar your spine, or struggling with your bike’s handling on a twisty road because your suspension just isn’t cutting it. Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure, commuting daily, or just cruising on the weekends, upgrading your Harley touring shocks is one of the most impactful improvements you can make for comfort, control, and overall ride enjoyment. I’ve spent time researching, talking to fellow riders, and looking at what’s available on the market for Harley suspension upgrade options. This guide is designed to cut through the noise, comparing some of the top contenders for the best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles to help you make an informed decision and truly enhance your riding experience. We’ll dive into specific models, discuss their pros and cons, and help you find the perfect match for your riding style and budget.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Mofun Black 13″ Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Compatible with…	View on Amazon
	XFMT Motorcycle Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit…	View on Amazon
	Legend Suspensions 1310-0959 FL Touring Revo-A Black Rear…	View on Amazon
	Mofun 11.75″ Touring Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Preload…	View on Amazon
	Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks with Gold…	View on Amazon

Detailed Product Reviews

Mofun Black 13″ Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Compatible with…

If you’re looking to achieve a lower stance for your Harley touring bike while still prioritizing a comfortable ride, these 13-inch Mofun shocks are a solid option. They’re designed to replace your stock shocks, offering a slightly lower position at the rear which can be great for riders who want a bit more ground reach or a custom look. The progressive wound springs are a key feature here, working to provide a smooth feel over varied terrain without being overly stiff. The black plating also gives them a sleek, understated appearance that blends well with most Harley aesthetics. These are an easy bolt-on application, making installation straightforward even for a DIY enthusiast.

Key features that stand out:
* Progressively wound springs: Offer a smoother, more comfortable ride by stiffening gradually.
* 13-inch eye-to-eye length: Provides a subtle lowering effect compared to standard 13.5″ or 14″ shocks.
* Preload adjustable: Allows you to tune the suspension to your rider weight or load.
* Sleek black finish: Complements a wide range of Harley touring models.

Pros:
* Easy to install as a direct bolt-on replacement.
* Affordable way to achieve a lowered stance and improved comfort.
* Progressive springs adapt well to different road conditions.
* Adjustable preload enhances tunability for individual riders.

Cons:
* May not offer the same level of sophisticated damping as premium, high-performance shocks.

Best for: Riders seeking a simple, cost-effective way to lower their Harley touring bike slightly and improve basic ride comfort without breaking the bank.

Expert Opinion: These Mofun 13″ shocks are a great entry-level option for riders who want to improve their bike’s aesthetics and basic ride quality. While they won’t offer race-level performance, the progressive springs and adjustable preload are definite upgrades over stock for many touring models.

XFMT Motorcycle Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit…

For the rider who wants ultimate control over their bike’s ride height and comfort, the XFMT Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit is a fantastic choice. This system completely replaces your conventional spring and damper setup with air springs, allowing you to instantly raise or lower your bike by 2 to 3 inches with the touch of a button. Imagine cruising slammed to the ground for that custom look, then airing it up to stock height for optimal comfort over speed bumps or rough roads. The system features high-flow, high-pressure fittings and a manifold-style dump valve for responsive adjustments. A big bonus is the ability to ride with zero air pressure without rubbing, which provides a safety net if you ever lose air on the road.

Key features that stand out:
* Fully adjustable ride height: Lower your bike 2-3 inches or raise to stock in seconds.
* High-flow, high-pressure fittings: Ensure quick and reliable air adjustments.
* Manifold-style dump valve: Provides optimum performance for raising and lowering.
* Ride with zero air pressure: Offers a failsafe, preventing tire rubbing even if air is lost.

Pros:
* Unparalleled adjustability for ride height and stance.
* Dramatically improves ride comfort over varied terrain.
* Allows for dynamic changes to suit different riding conditions or loads.
* Safety feature allows riding even with depleted air pressure.

Cons:
* Installation is more complex than traditional shocks and requires electrical work.

Best for: Riders who prioritize maximum adjustability, a custom slammed look, and superior ride comfort, especially those who frequently carry passengers or varying loads.

Expert Opinion: The XFMT air ride kit fundamentally changes how your Harley touring bike performs and looks. It’s a significant upgrade that offers a level of customization and comfort that traditional shocks simply can’t match. Be prepared for a more involved installation, but the payoff in flexibility and ride quality is substantial.

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

When it comes to premium performance and handling, Legend Suspensions consistently rises to the top, and their Revo-A Black Rear Shocks are no exception. These 13-inch shocks are engineered for Harley touring bikes from 1999-2023, offering a significant upgrade over stock with their advanced features. The standout capability is the six external knob adjustments for rebound damping, allowing riders to precisely fine-tune how the shock extends after compression. This means you can dial in your ride for optimal control and comfort, whether you’re cornering hard or cruising straight. Made by hand in Sturgis, SD, USA, and backed by a lifetime warranty, these shocks speak to quality and durability. The hard black anodize finish adds to their rugged appeal.

Key features that stand out:
* Six external rebound damping adjustments: Provides precise control over shock extension for tailored performance.
* 13-inch standard spring rate: Optimized for balanced performance and ride quality.
* Hard black anodize finish: Durable and aesthetically pleasing.
* Lifetime Warranty: Assurance of quality and manufacturer support.

Pros:
* Exceptional handling and control due to advanced rebound adjustability.
* Premium build quality and durability with a lifetime warranty.
* Hand-made in the USA, ensuring high standards.
* Significant upgrade for aggressive riders or those seeking refined performance.

Cons:
* These are a high-end option, making them a considerably more expensive investment.

Best for: Performance-oriented riders who demand the best in handling, adjustability, and ride quality for their Harley touring motorcycle, willing to invest in a top-tier suspension.

Expert Opinion: The Legend Revo-A shocks are in a different league for performance. The external rebound adjustments are a game-changer for riders who want to truly dial in their suspension for aggressive riding or specific road conditions. If you push your Harley and want it to respond like a sportier machine, these are definitely worth the investment.

Mofun 11.75″ Touring Rear Shocks Lowering Kit Preload…

For Harley touring riders looking for a more aggressive lowered stance, the Mofun 11.75″ Touring Rear Shocks are an excellent option. These shocks are shorter than your typical stock units, dropping the rear of your bike noticeably and giving it that custom, low-slung appearance. Like their 13-inch counterparts, these Mofun shocks feature progressively wound springs, which are designed to provide a smoother and more comfortable ride despite the reduced travel. The preload adjustability allows you to tailor the spring tension to your weight, a crucial feature for any rider. With a gleaming chrome plating finish, these shocks can also add a touch of classic shine to your Harley, making them a great choice for both aesthetics and functionality.

Key features that stand out:
* 11.75-inch eye-to-eye length: Delivers a significant lowering effect compared to stock.
* Chrome Plating: Offers a classic, eye-catching finish.
* Progressively wound springs: Provide a comfortable ride by gradually stiffening.
* Preload adjustable: Allows for suspension tuning based on rider weight and load.

Pros:
* Achieves a noticeable custom lowered look.
* Offers improved ground reach for shorter riders.
* Progressive springs enhance ride comfort despite shorter travel.
* Easy bolt-on installation.

Cons:
* The reduced travel might slightly limit comfort on extremely rough roads.

Best for: Riders seeking a significant lowering effect for their Harley touring bike to improve ground reach or achieve a specific custom aesthetic, while still maintaining reasonable ride comfort.

Expert Opinion: These 11.75″ Mofun shocks are ideal for riders who are serious about lowering their Harley. You’ll definitely notice the difference in stance and feel. While the shorter travel inherently means less plushness than longer shocks, the progressive springs and preload adjustability help mitigate harshness, making them a solid choice for a lowered custom look.

Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks with Gold…

Stepping up the performance ladder, the Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks offer a highly sophisticated and adjustable suspension experience for specific 2014-2025 Harley touring models. The highlight here is the exposed remote reservoirs and comprehensive adjustability, providing riders with an advanced level of control over their ride. You get an impressive 26 levels of adjustable compression damping and 43 levels of rebound damping, along with adjustable preload. This means you can fine-tune your suspension to an incredible degree, matching it perfectly to your riding style, road conditions, and loaded weight. The nitrogen-filled design helps resist heat fade, ensuring consistent performance, and the PTFE tubing with stainless steel reinforcement for the reservoir lines speaks to their robust construction.

Key features that stand out:
* Remote reservoirs: Dissipate heat more effectively, ensuring consistent damping performance.
* 26 levels of adjustable compression damping: Provides fine-tuning for how the shock absorbs impacts.
* 43 levels of adjustable rebound damping: Offers precise control over how the shock extends after compression.
* Adjustable preload: Allows for sag adjustment based on rider, passenger, and gear weight.
* Progressive rate springs: Stiffen quickly for improved control when riding aggressively.

Pros:
* Exceptional adjustability for compression, rebound, and preload.
* Remote reservoirs resist heat fade for consistent performance.
* Enhances stability and smoothness of the ride across varied conditions.
* Robust construction with high-quality materials.

Cons:
* The extensive adjustability might be overwhelming for some riders initially.

Best for: Experienced Harley touring riders on compatible models who desire comprehensive suspension tuning, superior control, and advanced performance for spirited riding, touring with heavy loads, or custom setups.

Expert Opinion: These Mofun remote reservoir shocks bring a truly high-performance feel to your Harley touring bike. The sheer number of damping adjustments means you can really dial in the ride to your exact preferences, something that serious riders will appreciate. They offer a significant performance leap over standard shocks, especially when pushing the limits or carrying a lot of gear.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re looking for the best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles, you’ll quickly notice a few main categories. On one end, you have the Mofun lowering kits, both the 13-inch black version and the 11.75-inch chrome version. These are fantastic choices if your primary goal is to lower your Harley touring bike’s rear end for aesthetics or better ground reach. The 11.75-inch model will give you a more dramatic drop than the 13-inch, which is a subtle change. Both use progressively wound springs for improved comfort over stock, and they’re preload adjustable which is a big plus for customizing for your weight. They’re also easy to install, making them great for DIYers.

Moving up in sophistication, the XFMT Motorcycle Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit completely changes the game. This isn’t just about lowering; it’s about on-the-fly height adjustability. You can slam your bike when parked or air it up for optimal riding height and comfort. While the initial installation is more complex compared to traditional shocks, the ability to ride with zero air pressure as a failsafe is a brilliant design element. This is ideal for riders who want ultimate control and a truly custom setup.

For those who prioritize pure performance and refined handling, the Legend Suspensions Revo-A Black Rear Shocks are a top-tier choice. These are handcrafted in the USA and offer six external rebound damping adjustments, allowing for incredibly precise tuning. While they don’t offer the extreme height adjustability of air ride or the aggressive lowering of the shorter Mofun kits, they focus entirely on superior ride quality and control at a standard ride height. They’re a significant investment, but their lifetime warranty speaks volumes about their durability and the brand’s confidence.

Finally, the Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks sit in a unique position. They combine extensive adjustability (26 compression, 43 rebound levels!) with the heat-dissipating benefits of remote reservoirs. These are for the rider who wants performance and fine-tuning but perhaps on a slightly different budget than the Legends. They offer a level of control that rivals high-end performance shocks, making them excellent for aggressive riding, heavy loads, or simply dialing in that perfect feel. The hassle-free installation for damping adjustments is a practical benefit. When considering the best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles, think about your main priority: a quick lowering, extreme adjustability, pure performance, or advanced tuning.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles really comes down to what you prioritize most in your ride.

• If you’re on a budget and simply want to lower your bike for looks or better ground reach, the Mofun 11.75″ or 13″ lowering kits are fantastic, straightforward choices that offer a noticeable upgrade over stock comfort without breaking the bank. The 11.75″ gives a more dramatic drop, while the 13″ is a subtle improvement.

• For the rider who wants ultimate control over ride height and a show-stopping custom look, the XFMT Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit is your go-to. It offers unparalleled on-the-fly adjustability, transforming your bike’s stance and comfort with the push of a button.

• When uncompromised performance, superior handling, and precision tuning are your absolute goals, and you’re ready to invest, the Legend Suspensions Revo-A Black Rear Shocks stand out. Their American craftsmanship, advanced rebound adjustment, and lifetime warranty make them a top-tier choice for the discerning rider.

• And for those seeking advanced, fine-tuneable performance with remote reservoirs for consistent damping, without quite the premium price tag of Legend, the Mofun Remote Reservoir Rear Suspension Shocks offer an incredible range of adjustability for compression and rebound, providing a highly refined and controlled ride.

Ultimately, each of these shocks offers distinct advantages. Consider your riding style, your budget, and what kind of improvements you’re hoping to achieve, and you’ll find the perfect match to make your Harley touring experience even better.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Why should I upgrade the rear shocks on my Harley touring motorcycle?
A1: Upgrading your rear shocks can dramatically improve your riding experience. You’ll notice better ride comfort, especially on long journeys or rough roads, enhanced handling and stability in corners, and improved control when carrying passengers or heavy luggage. Stock shocks are often a compromise, and aftermarket options offer superior damping, adjustability, and overall performance, making them one of the best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles investments.

Q2: What’s the main difference between lowering shocks and standard-length shocks?
A2: Lowering shocks, like the Mofun 11.75″ or 13″ options, are simply shorter than standard shocks (which are typically 12.5″ to 13.5″ for most Harley touring models). This shorter length reduces the bike’s rear ride height, giving it a custom, lowered look and potentially improving ground reach for shorter riders. Standard length or performance shocks focus on optimizing travel and damping for comfort and handling without altering the bike’s original ride height.

Q3: Are air ride suspension kits worth the investment for Harley touring bikes?
A3: Air ride suspension kits, such as the XFMT option, are a significant investment but offer unparalleled versatility. They allow you to adjust your bike’s ride height on the fly, from slammed to stock height, which is fantastic for aesthetics, clearing obstacles, or managing different loads. For riders who want maximum customization, superior comfort, and dynamic control over their suspension, an air ride system can be incredibly worthwhile, making it one of the most flexible choices among the best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles.

Q4: What does “preload adjustable” mean, and why is it important?
A4: Preload adjustable means you can compress or decompress the shock spring, effectively changing how much force is required to start compressing the shock. This is crucial for tuning your suspension to your specific weight, or the combined weight of a rider, passenger, and luggage. Proper preload ensures the shock operates within its optimal range, preventing bottoming out or feeling too soft, and maintaining the correct ride height.

Q5: What are remote reservoir shocks, and what are their benefits?
A5: Remote reservoir shocks, like the Mofun Remote Reservoir option, feature a separate chamber (the reservoir) connected to the main shock body via a hose. This reservoir increases the volume of damping oil and nitrogen gas, which helps dissipate heat more effectively. Better heat management prevents “shock fade” during aggressive or prolonged riding, ensuring consistent damping performance. They often also allow for independent adjustment of compression and rebound damping, offering a higher level of tunability than non-reservoir shocks.

Q6: Can I install new rear shocks on my Harley touring motorcycle myself?
A6: Many standard bolt-on rear shocks, like the Mofun lowering kits, are relatively straightforward to install with basic tools and some mechanical know-how. However, more complex systems like air ride kits or remote reservoir shocks might require specialized tools, wiring, or a deeper understanding of suspension dynamics. If you’re not confident, it’s always best to have a qualified mechanic perform the installation to ensure safety and proper setup for your best rear shocks for Harley touring motorcycles.

Q7: How do I know what length shocks I should get for my Harley touring bike?
A7: The ideal shock length depends on your desired ride height, personal comfort, and specific Harley touring model. Shorter shocks (like 11.75″) will lower your bike more significantly but reduce suspension travel, potentially impacting comfort on rough roads. Standard lengths (around 12.5″ to 13″) aim for a balance of comfort and handling. Always check the manufacturer’s fitment guide for your specific year and model, and consider how a change in length might affect your bike’s handling characteristics and lean angle.