One of the best upgrades you can make to your Harley
Look back at any review of a Harley-Davidson touring model (and any other model besides the Pan America), and there's a good chance you'll find a sentence or two about Harley's unusual choices when it comes to suspension. Specifically, the rear shock(s). It seems as though, in order to make the seat height as low as possible, Harley has compromised ride quality in the back by installing a shock with very little suspension travel. It works, but it's not kind to the human spine.
Fortunately, the aftermarket is full of shock options that can dramatically improve the ride quality at the back. The aftermarket also offers several different fork improvements, but that's a topic for another time. Depending on your budget, we have options here ranging from mild to wild, with basic damping improvements, to full adjustability to suit your exact style.
Table of Contents
- 1. Drag Specialties Ride Height Adjustable Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
- 2. Fox Factory IFP-R QS3 Monotube Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
- 3. Legend Suspension AIR Suspension: Shop Now
- Read review
- 4. Legend Suspension Revo-A Coil Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
- 5. Öhlins S36HRCL Rear Reservoir Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
- 6. Öhlins S36DR Adjustable Rear Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
- 7. Burly Slammer Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
- 8. Progressive 490 Sport Shocks: Shop Now
- Read review
Drag Specialties Ride Height Adjustable Shocks
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Drag Specialties is synonymous with V-Twin performance parts and these shocks are no exception. These modest shocks won't break the bank, and give you the ability to adjust the ride height by half an inch. Plus you can adjust the spring preload as well. The nitrogen-charged steel monotube damper bodies are made with hard chrome-plated shafts and dual-rate progressive wound springs that offer a smooth, comfortable ride. These are available in either chrome or black, are sold as pairs, and are meant to be direct replacements for your OEM shocks.
Fox Factory IFP-R QS3 Monotube Shocks
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You might know Fox for its long history with all things off-road, but it also has a significant presence in the Harley-Davidson scene. The IFP-R QS3 shocks represent some of the best shocks Fox makes for Harley touring bikes, whether you ride alone or fully loaded with a passenger. An internal floating piston separates the nitrogen gas from the shock oil to maintain consistent damping control throughout your ride. A three-position Quick Switch Rebound setting is paired with main piston valving that has been ride-tested to work perfectly in any of those settings.
The FOX IFP-R QS3 rear shocks were designed to give you the comfort and control needed to keep you (and a passenger) happily eating up the miles and taming the twists and turns. With an internal floating piston to separate the nitrogen gas from the shock oil, the IFP-R shocks will maintain damping control no matter how long you ride. The main piston valving has been reconfigured and extensively ride tested in a full range of conditions to work in harmony with the new three-position Quick Switch Rebound (QSR) settings.
Three distinct rebound settings make it easy to dial in the correct rebound for different riding situations: comfort on bumpy backroads, "any road" balance of control and comfort, and a "glued to the asphalt" feeling on smooth twisty roads. FOX's IFP-QSR three-position rebound adjustable design - combined with vehicle-specific damping and linear spring rates - gives you a confident connection to the road while soaking up the bumps mile after mile.
If the QS3 is more than you need, Fox also has two other options – theIFP-RandIFP– that still provide better damping than stock, but won't hurt your wallet nearly as much.
Legend Suspension AIR Suspension
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There's another option if you want a low seat height but better ride quality than stock – air suspension. This kit from Legend gives you all the benefits of traditional air suspension, but each kit is designed for a specific model to make it easy to bolt in the required air compressor. After that's mounted up, a switch on the bars lets you fill the shocks with however much air you want. This works great whether you're riding alone or fully loaded up to provide just the amount of comfort you want.
Legend Suspension Revo-A Coil Shocks
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Some people really prefer to have traditional coil spring shocks over air suspension. Legend hasn’t forgotten about those riders, and presents them with the Revo-A coil shock. Legend’s method for providing a better ride with traditional shocks is to use a soft spring rate, but winding it a few inches longer than the standard spring. Once it’s compressed and put into action, the little added travel makes a huge difference in terms of ride quality. With an all-aluminum shock body and the ability to adjust rebound damping, the Revo-A is an excellent alternative to stock or air suspension. Oh, and did we mention that they’re made in the USA?
Öhlins S36HRCL Rear Reservoir Shocks
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The Öhlins S36HRCL Rear Reservoir Shocks for Harley Touring models are some of the most advanced shocks in this lineup, sure to enhance suspension performance with a monotube gas-charged design and external reservoir for consistent damping. The aluminum body ensures durability while reducing weight. Fully adjustable rebound, compression damping, and threaded preload allow fine-tuned customization for varying loads and riding styles. A 36mm piston provides responsive feedback, improving stability, comfort, and cornering confidence. Designed for long-term reliability, these shocks effectively absorb road imperfections while delivering a balance of comfort and sport-oriented performance, making them a premium choice for touring applications. If there is one name in suspension that riders from any segment trust, it's the Swedish brand Öhlins and that's due to their top-notch build quality, as well as performance.
Öhlins S36DR Adjustable Rear Shocks
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The Öhlins S36DRL Adjustable Rear Shocks for Harley Touring (1990-2025) offer a significant improvement in suspension with a simpler design compared to the previously mentioned reservoir-equipped S36HRCL. They are also a fraction of the cost. Built with Öhlins' signature monotube gas-charged construction and a 36mm piston, these shocks provide smoother damping, improved stability, and better road feedback. Adjustable rebound damping and preload allow for easy tuning to match different loads and riding conditions without the added complexity of a remote reservoir. Ideal for riders who prioritize comfort and control without overcomplicating adjustments, the S36DRL delivers premium performance in a more accessible and user-friendly package.
Burly Slammer Shocks
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Burly Brand has been delivering cruiser parts to riders for nearly 30 years at an excellent value. The Burly Slammer are built to do just that, slam your ride. The full Slammer kit, complete with fork springs, is a best seller for Burly Brand and now you can buy each part separately. The Slammer shocks lower the rear ride height up to two inches. Made in America and sold as a pair, check out the Slammer if you're wanting a custom look for your Harley-Davidson.
Progressive 490 Sport Shocks
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The Progressive 490 Sport Shocks for Harley Touring (2006-2025) are an economical way to improve the suspension of your Harley-Davidson Touring model, while enjoying much better handling and ride quality than the insufficient stock units. Featuring a high-pressure monotube design with a deflective disc valve, they provide precise damping control for aggressive riding while maintaining comfort. A threaded preload adjuster and adjustable rebound damping allow fine-tuning for different loads and riding styles, ensuring a controlled and balanced ride. Unlike more complex reservoir shocks, the 490 Sport Shocks offer performance-oriented handling in a compact, maintenance-free package, making them ideal for riders who want a sharper response and improved road feel without additional complexity.
Harley-Davidson Shock FAQ
Is a longer shock better?
It depends. Depending on the bike, longer is not always better, but when it comes to Harleys, we tend to think so. Mainly because, historically, Harley has sacrificed rear ride quality to put the seat as low as possible. A longer shock will raise the seat higher, but if done correctly, will give your Harley a better, smoother ride.
Which shock absorber is best?
Once again, it depends. It depends on the type of riding you do and what you are looking for in an aftermarket shock. That said, there are many aftermarket companies making great shocks for Harleys - and Harley's own catalog of parts is really good too. So, consult with your preferred tuner or dealership for the best shock for your needs.
What types of shocks give the smoothest ride?
See the question above. It really all depends on your wants and needs. Any reputable suspension company can make a shock to your specifications.
Updates
March, 2025: Updated out of stock and discontinued products with currently available offerings.
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