Columbus Native's Vision: Revolutionizing Sleep Through Innovation

A New Approach to Better Sleep

A native of Columbus is working to change the way people sleep. Her vision is to reinvent the sleep mask, making it more effective and comfortable than ever before. Jill MacRae, co-founder of the Inactive Company, has taken on this challenge with a product that promises to transform the sleep experience.

The company's latest creation, Inactivators, is a high-tech sleep mask designed to create an "optimal" sleeping environment—completely dark, comfortable, and cool. These features are based on scientific research that shows how these conditions can significantly improve sleep quality.

Inactivators have already gained attention from professional athletes. College and pro football teams, including Georgia, Auburn, Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Falcons, and New York Giants, have used the product. This success highlights the growing interest in products that support better rest and recovery.

The Journey of Jill MacRae

MacRae moved to Columbus at the age of four from Miami, Florida. Her passion for wellness was influenced by her father, a trauma surgeon. While she always considered wellness important, it wasn't until later in life that it became her focus.

She graduated from Hardaway High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia. Over the course of 25 years, she built a successful career in sales and marketing at major brands such as Spanx, Dunkin’ Brands, and Starbucks. It was during her time at Spanx that she met Lori Oliver, her future cofounder of the Inactive Company.

"We were traveling around the world and making all sorts of products, and we were always complaining about sleep," MacRae recalled. "We can never get enough sleep."

They tried various methods to improve their sleep, including gummies, vitamins, mattresses, and pillows. None of them worked. Eventually, Oliver had an idea.

"Lori called me one day and said, ‘I've got it. I got the solution to sleep better we've always been talking about,'” MacRae said. “‘I want to re-engineer a 100-year-old product, just like Sara [Blakely] did for Spanx with the girdle. I want to do it for a sleep mask.'”

Innovating the Sleep Mask

Oliver brought MacRae on board in 2019 to help build the company. It took about a year and a half to perfect the Inactivators. MacRae emphasized that they weren’t doctors or sleep experts, but they knew what worked from being consumers.

They collaborated with partners like the Emory Sleep Study Clinic and the Harvard Sleep Symposium to understand the criteria the body needs to fall and stay asleep. Translating this into tangible features in a mask was a significant challenge.

Features That Make a Difference

Since launching, Inactivators have become popular among professional athletes, especially those who typically avoid wearable technology like Apple Watches or Fitbits. The NFL Players Association has been a valuable partner, providing feedback on how the mask is used and helping to create a sleep culture for young athletes.

The mask offers several key features. First, it provides 100% darkness and blackout, which studies show helps the brain release melatonin, a hormone essential for the sleep-wake cycle. The mask also includes temperature-regulating material that absorbs heat according to the circadian rhythm. Consumer testing showed that this technology helps users sleep 20-30 minutes longer on average.

Another unique feature is the space provided for users to open their eyes under the mask. This was inspired by work with Emory University's Veterans Program and the Wounded Warriors program. Many people avoid sleep masks due to fear of not being able to open their eyes if they wake up in the middle of the night.

Expanding the Product Line

Inactivators are priced at $45 on their website. The Inactive Company is also expanding its product line to include pajamas and other items. This expansion reflects the growing demand for products that support better sleep and overall wellness.

As the company continues to grow, it remains focused on improving the sleep experience through innovation and science-backed design. With the support of professional athletes and ongoing research, the future of sleep may look very different—and much more comfortable.

Martian mania: Americans' obsession with the red planet

The Rise of the Martian Craze in the Early 20th Century

The early 1900s were a time of immense optimism and technological progress. Innovations such as the automobile, mechanical flight, and wireless communication captivated the public imagination. This era of discovery and possibility was epitomized by Thomas Edison’s belief that “everything, anything is possible” in the next century. Among those who shared this enthusiasm was balloonist Leo Stevens and astronomer David Todd, who, in 1909, set out to prove that communication with Martians was not only possible but imminent.

Their plan involved flying a hot-air balloon 10 miles above Earth so that Todd could send messages to the red planet. The pair was not just optimistic—they were confident. “We will be talking to the people of Mars before the 15th of next September,” Stevens declared. However, their mission never took off due to a lack of funding. Despite their failure, their belief in extraterrestrial communication was fueled by a widespread fascination with Mars during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

This fascination was largely driven by Percival Lowell, a wealthy Bostonian who transformed himself into an amateur astronomer after being exiled from polite society for abandoning a marriage proposal. Lowell became obsessed with Mars, convinced that he had discovered artificial canals on its surface—structures that, he claimed, could only have been built by intelligent beings. His theories were based on the work of Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli, who first observed what he called "canali" (channels) on Mars in 1877. Though Schiaparelli was known for his absent-mindedness, his observations sparked a decades-long debate among astronomers.

Lowell's claims gained traction when Mars passed close to Earth in 1892, making the canals appear more visible. Newspapers like the New York World ran sensational headlines, fueling public excitement. When the Lick Observatory reported seeing lights on Mars, it led to a media frenzy. Were the Martians trying to signal Earth? It was a topic of conversation everywhere.

Despite the scientific community's skepticism, Lowell continued to promote his ideas through speaking tours and publications. He argued that the canals were irrigation systems used by Martians to transport water across the planet's arid landscape. His theories captured the public's imagination, leading to a wave of Martian-themed cultural phenomena. H.G. Wells’ novel The War of the Worlds (1897) became a bestseller, while dance crazes, Broadway shows, and even advertisements featured Martians.

However, not everyone was convinced. Astronomers like Walter Maunder challenged Lowell’s claims by conducting experiments with schoolchildren, showing that perceptions of Mars' surface varied widely. This suggested that what was seen through telescopes might be influenced by human error or optical illusions rather than actual structures.

Lowell’s reputation suffered further when Eugène Michel Antoniadi, an astronomer from the Meudon Observatory, produced clearer images of Mars that revealed no canals—only natural features. Despite this, Lowell refused to admit he was wrong, continuing to claim new discoveries even as the scientific community labeled him a charlatan.

Though he never proved the existence of life on Mars, Lowell’s work inspired a generation to dream of alien worlds. His legacy, though controversial, played a significant role in shaping humanity’s early fascination with space and the possibility of life beyond Earth.

Martian mania: Americans' obsession with the red planet

The Rise of the Martian Craze in the Early 20th Century

The early 1900s were a time of immense optimism and technological progress. Innovations such as the automobile, mechanical flight, and wireless communication captivated the public imagination. This era of discovery and possibility was epitomized by Thomas Edison’s belief that “everything, anything is possible” in the next century. Among those who shared this enthusiasm was balloonist Leo Stevens and astronomer David Todd, who, in 1909, set out to prove that communication with Martians was not only possible but imminent.

Their plan involved flying a hot-air balloon 10 miles above Earth so that Todd could send messages to the red planet. The pair was not just optimistic—they were confident. “We will be talking to the people of Mars before the 15th of next September,” Stevens declared. However, their mission never took off due to a lack of funding. Despite their failure, their belief in extraterrestrial communication was fueled by a widespread fascination with Mars during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

This fascination was largely driven by Percival Lowell, a wealthy Bostonian who transformed himself into an amateur astronomer after being exiled from polite society for abandoning a marriage proposal. Lowell became obsessed with Mars, convinced that he had discovered artificial canals on its surface—structures that, he claimed, could only have been built by intelligent beings. His theories were based on the work of Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli, who first observed what he called "canali" (channels) on Mars in 1877. Though Schiaparelli was known for his absent-mindedness, his observations sparked a decades-long debate among astronomers.

Lowell's claims gained traction when Mars passed close to Earth in 1892, making the canals appear more visible. Newspapers like the New York World ran sensational headlines, fueling public excitement. When the Lick Observatory reported seeing lights on Mars, it led to a media frenzy. Were the Martians trying to signal Earth? It was a topic of conversation everywhere.

Despite the scientific community's skepticism, Lowell continued to promote his ideas through speaking tours and publications. He argued that the canals were irrigation systems used by Martians to transport water across the planet's arid landscape. His theories captured the public's imagination, leading to a wave of Martian-themed cultural phenomena. H.G. Wells’ novel The War of the Worlds (1897) became a bestseller, while dance crazes, Broadway shows, and even advertisements featured Martians.

However, not everyone was convinced. Astronomers like Walter Maunder challenged Lowell’s claims by conducting experiments with schoolchildren, showing that perceptions of Mars' surface varied widely. This suggested that what was seen through telescopes might be influenced by human error or optical illusions rather than actual structures.

Lowell’s reputation suffered further when Eugène Michel Antoniadi, an astronomer from the Meudon Observatory, produced clearer images of Mars that revealed no canals—only natural features. Despite this, Lowell refused to admit he was wrong, continuing to claim new discoveries even as the scientific community labeled him a charlatan.

Though he never proved the existence of life on Mars, Lowell’s work inspired a generation to dream of alien worlds. His legacy, though controversial, played a significant role in shaping humanity’s early fascination with space and the possibility of life beyond Earth.

STAAH Enhances SwiftBook Booking Engine

Enhancements to SwiftBook Booking Engine Improve User Experience

Hotel distribution technology provider STAAH has introduced new improvements to its SwiftBook Booking Engine, aiming to make the hotel booking process more straightforward for users. These updates are designed to streamline the experience and reduce confusion during the reservation journey.

One of the most significant changes is the redesigned Datepicker interface. The new version offers a “clutter-free” layout that removes excessive information, promotional content, rates, and restrictions from the booking calendar. This update is especially useful for mobile users, who often face challenges with limited screen space.

By eliminating non-essential details and only marking sold-out dates with a simple "x," the updated Datepicker supports a broader range of booking behaviors. It accommodates guests who are simply browsing for availability rather than looking for specific rate options. This shift in design helps create a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Hotels can easily implement the new Datepicker design through the BE Themes module in SwiftBook. They can select the updated interface from a dropdown menu, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.

Another notable improvement is the introduction of a visual indicator for sold-out dates. Previously, dates without availability were labeled as "SOLD," which led to confusion among users. Many interpreted this label as meaning the entire date was unavailable, including both arrival and departure times.

The updated design replaces the "SOLD" label with a clear "x." Additionally, it partially shades dates that are unavailable for arrival but still allow for departures. This change reduces misinterpretation and enhances the overall user experience.

These updates aim to make the availability status more intuitive, helping to reduce user frustration. By improving clarity, the latest enhancements in SwiftBook’s booking engine are expected to prevent potential guests from abandoning the booking process.

Collaboration with Cloudbeds

The recent upgrades come on the heels of STAAH’s partnership with Cloudbeds, a hospitality management software platform. This collaboration, announced earlier in May, aims to provide hotel operators with tools to streamline their channel management processes. By integrating with Cloudbeds, STAAH is expanding its capabilities to support hotels in managing their bookings more efficiently.

The improvements to the SwiftBook Booking Engine reflect STAAH’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the digital experience for both hoteliers and guests. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, such innovations are essential in meeting the changing expectations of travelers.

Benefits for Hotel Operators

For hotel operators, these updates offer several advantages. The simplified booking interface not only improves the guest experience but also helps reduce the likelihood of abandoned bookings. A smoother and more transparent process can lead to higher conversion rates and better customer satisfaction.

Additionally, the ability to customize the booking interface through the BE Themes module gives hotels greater flexibility. They can tailor the look and feel of their booking page to align with their brand identity while maintaining a seamless user experience.

The integration with Cloudbeds further strengthens STAAH’s position in the market. By offering a comprehensive suite of tools, STAAH enables hotel operators to manage multiple channels more effectively, reducing the administrative burden and allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional service.

Looking Ahead

As the travel industry continues to adapt to new trends and technologies, STAAH’s latest updates demonstrate a forward-thinking approach. By prioritizing user experience and providing flexible solutions, the company is well-positioned to meet the needs of both hotels and guests.

With continued innovation and strategic partnerships, STAAH is setting a new standard in hotel distribution technology. These efforts are likely to have a lasting impact on how hotels manage their online presence and interact with customers.

STAAH Enhances SwiftBook Booking Engine

Enhancements to SwiftBook Booking Engine Improve User Experience

Hotel distribution technology provider STAAH has introduced new improvements to its SwiftBook Booking Engine, aiming to make the hotel booking process more straightforward for users. These updates are designed to streamline the experience and reduce confusion during the reservation journey.

One of the most significant changes is the redesigned Datepicker interface. The new version offers a “clutter-free” layout that removes excessive information, promotional content, rates, and restrictions from the booking calendar. This update is especially useful for mobile users, who often face challenges with limited screen space.

By eliminating non-essential details and only marking sold-out dates with a simple "x," the updated Datepicker supports a broader range of booking behaviors. It accommodates guests who are simply browsing for availability rather than looking for specific rate options. This shift in design helps create a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Hotels can easily implement the new Datepicker design through the BE Themes module in SwiftBook. They can select the updated interface from a dropdown menu, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.

Another notable improvement is the introduction of a visual indicator for sold-out dates. Previously, dates without availability were labeled as "SOLD," which led to confusion among users. Many interpreted this label as meaning the entire date was unavailable, including both arrival and departure times.

The updated design replaces the "SOLD" label with a clear "x." Additionally, it partially shades dates that are unavailable for arrival but still allow for departures. This change reduces misinterpretation and enhances the overall user experience.

These updates aim to make the availability status more intuitive, helping to reduce user frustration. By improving clarity, the latest enhancements in SwiftBook’s booking engine are expected to prevent potential guests from abandoning the booking process.

Collaboration with Cloudbeds

The recent upgrades come on the heels of STAAH’s partnership with Cloudbeds, a hospitality management software platform. This collaboration, announced earlier in May, aims to provide hotel operators with tools to streamline their channel management processes. By integrating with Cloudbeds, STAAH is expanding its capabilities to support hotels in managing their bookings more efficiently.

The improvements to the SwiftBook Booking Engine reflect STAAH’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the digital experience for both hoteliers and guests. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, such innovations are essential in meeting the changing expectations of travelers.

Benefits for Hotel Operators

For hotel operators, these updates offer several advantages. The simplified booking interface not only improves the guest experience but also helps reduce the likelihood of abandoned bookings. A smoother and more transparent process can lead to higher conversion rates and better customer satisfaction.

Additionally, the ability to customize the booking interface through the BE Themes module gives hotels greater flexibility. They can tailor the look and feel of their booking page to align with their brand identity while maintaining a seamless user experience.

The integration with Cloudbeds further strengthens STAAH’s position in the market. By offering a comprehensive suite of tools, STAAH enables hotel operators to manage multiple channels more effectively, reducing the administrative burden and allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional service.

Looking Ahead

As the travel industry continues to adapt to new trends and technologies, STAAH’s latest updates demonstrate a forward-thinking approach. By prioritizing user experience and providing flexible solutions, the company is well-positioned to meet the needs of both hotels and guests.

With continued innovation and strategic partnerships, STAAH is setting a new standard in hotel distribution technology. These efforts are likely to have a lasting impact on how hotels manage their online presence and interact with customers.

It's Literally My Job to Review Tech—Trust Me, These Labor Day Deals Don't Stink

Summer is slipping away, but who needs a tissue when I plan on dabbing my tears with all the money I'll be saving from this year's best tech.Labor Day sales? After mourning the loss of sun, serotonin, and sandal season, I'm ready to embrace my second favorite era: fall, where staying in and snacking like a professional couch potato while wearing a cozy hoodie in front of the TV is finally socially acceptable again.

Speaking of TVs, this 75-inch 4KToshibais nearly 40% off on Amazon. That's the lowest price I've ever seen on it. And there's alotmore where that came from. As a tech expert - it's literally my job - I've spotted a treasure trove of eye-catching deals from the likes ofApple,Bose,Fitbit,andSony, including my personal favorite noise-cancelling headphones—Sony-WH-1000XM4—which are a whopping 43% off right now.

I'm not saying these deals will disappear faster than summer did. But I'm also notnotSaying that. I recommend treating yourself to these steals—er, I mean "deals"—before everyone else snatches what's left.

Top Labor Day Tech Sales

• TheAirPodsthatalwayssell outare 32% off right now. Run!
• If you travel at all, I recommendApple's AirTagtrackers, which ensure that you can locate your luggage if it ever gets lost; theFour-pack is now 24% off.
• This75-inch 4K Toshiba TVis nearly 40% off—andIt's going fast.
• My favorite Sony headphonesare on sale! TheWH-1000XM5may not be Sony's latest release, but it isisthe most recent over-ear noise-canceling model with a steep discount (now 32% off).
• You also can't go wrong with Sony's classicWH-1000XM4, another pair of headphonesapproved by tech expertslike myself (now 43% off).
• One of thebest portable MacBooksI have tested, the13-inch Air with the M4 chip, is now less than $800 on Amazon.

Keep scrolling for more!

The Secret To Beloved Florida Parks? AI Finds The Answer In Your Reviews

Researchers turn 30,000 online reviews into actionable data, revealing what makes green spaces truly great.

The five-star review you left for a local park might just be the key to designing better green spaces. Thanks to a new study from researchers at the University of Florida, artificial intelligence (AI) has analyzed over 30,000 online park reviews to uncover what people truly value in nature.

Published in the journal Ecosystem Services, the findings reveal that parks with a winning combination of features—more trees, open space, diverse plant and animal life, and water features—are the ones people love most.

READ: Escape The Ordinary: Discover Florida’s Best Staycation Gems

Led by doctoral student Haojie Cao and associate professor Jiangxiao Qiu at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC), the team used machine learning to sift through Google Maps and TripAdvisor reviews for parks, gardens, and greenways across Broward County. Their AI model identified 11 types of "cultural ecosystem services"—the nonmaterial benefits people get from nature, such as beauty, recreation, inspiration, and relaxation.

Decoding the Urban Experience

The study found that these benefits rarely exist in isolation. For example, a single park trail can simultaneously provide opportunities for jogging, quiet reflection, and birdwatching. This "bundling" of experiences, the researchers say, is what makes a park truly valuable.

"By applying AI to countless online reviews, we can now measure these cultural values and understand how park design and planning can be optimized for public wellbeing," said Haojie Cao.

For Broward County, one of Florida's most urban areas, the study offers a powerful blueprint for creating healthier communities. The research highlighted how certain features, particularly shade, walking paths, and water access, are essential in shaping positive experiences.

READ:Florida Supreme Court Upholds Death Sentence for 1992 Triple Murderer Curtis Windom

"Social media data, empowered by AI, could provide a valuable means to understand where and how urban residents benefit most from parks," added Jiangxiao Qiu. He notes that this data is a form of citizen science, as the insights come directly from the public.

This new AI-driven approach is an adaptable roadmap that could be used anywhere, transforming casual online feedback into actionable insights for city planners. The research demonstrates how cutting-edge technology can be used to decode the intangible value of urban nature and build parks that truly serve their communities.

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What Are RFID Wallets? Plus, the Best Travel Wallets in 2025

Travel wallets - just anothertravel productto have in your arsenal, right?

That might be the case with some travel wallets, which are simply designed for travel use. Compared to a slimmer, more discreet wallet, these products allow you to neatly store your cards, passport, and even boarding passes.

But there's a new sheriff in town: the RFID travel wallet. This unique variation comes with special technology that protects your credit cards while traveling abroad, preventing scammers from RFID skimming.

But that's a technical concept that not many people are familiar with. So, what are FRID travel wallets? And where can you find the best travel wallets for your needs? Let's dive in.

Wait, what are RFID wallets?

Almost all credit and debit cards have an RFID chip, and passports too. RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. It's what enables you to make a payment by tapping, and is also the same type of technology that's behind new contactless passports.

It's also the technology behind those famous AirTags, letting you track pets and children and luggage from your smartphone.

If you really want to dig into the technology behind RFID communication and its use cases,TechTargethas a comprehensive breakdown.

Just know this: When it comes to RFID travel wallets, the goal is to prevent criminals from scanning the cards and passport(s) in your wallet by using special materials. Usually, RFID wallets rely on materials like metallic foil, conductive fabrics, and even carbon fiber. These block radio waves from reaching your RFID-enabled belongings.

In other words, RFID travel wallets protect your financial and personal information while you travel. But know that this type of protection can be as simple as wrapping your wallet in aluminum foil - no need to spend hundreds on a great product. Now onto the best RFID travel wallets on the market.

Best travel wallets with RFID

Travel wallets that do not come with RFID-blocking technology are purely designed forOrganizational ease. But if you're going to opt for a travel wallet in 2025, you might as well go for those advanced RFID features.

Who knows what tourist scams will emerge in the next decade? You might be ahead of the curve when it comes to security.

Best travel wallets in 2025:

• Garzini Magic Wallet(Men)
• Cardslide Wallet(Unisex)
• Bellroy Hide & Seek Wallet(Unisex)
• Slimfold Minimalist Wallet(Men)
• Grip6(Unisex)

Upgrade Your Hog's Rear with the Best Shocks for Harley-Davidson Touring

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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

Check Price

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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Why Is My Suspension So Stiff

MO Wrenching: How To Adjust Suspension Damping

MO Wrenching: How To Set Suspension Sag

Top 10 Misconceptions About The Shiro CoprSuspension

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Take a Magic Carpet Ride to the Disney Parks and More with The Genie Transportation Services

This post contains sponsored content from The Genie Transportation Services. Help support WDWNT by using the links in this article to book your next transport to and from Walt Disney World property with The Genie Transportation Services.

Imagine this: your family has just arrived at Orlando International Airport. The kids are buzzing with excitement, already talking about Mickey ice cream bars and spotting their first pair of mouse ears. You're tired from traveling, but you can feel the anticipation building — because the magic is finally here. And then you see your ride: a clean, private vehicle waiting just for you, with cool air, comfortable seats, and bottled water ready to go.

That's the moment your Disney vacation truly begins—withThe Genie Transportation Services, your family's very own magic carpet ride in Orlando.

From the Runway to the Magic Kingdom Gates

Getting from the airport to Walt Disney World should be easy, stress-free, and - dare we say it - magical. That's exactly what The Genie delivers. Their professional drivers track your flight in real time, so whether you land early in the morning or late at night, your ride adjusts to your schedule. No waiting, no guessing, no worrying - just a smooth journey straight to the magic.

Imagine stepping off the plane, piling into your private vehicle, and before you know it, you're driving toward Cinderella Castle, ready for your first stroll down Main Street, U.S.A.

Where Every Ride Feels Like Part of the Magic

The Genie's vehicles are spotless, climate-controlled, and stocked with complimentary bottled water. Parents can relax while kids press their faces to the window, already imagining their first EPCOT fireworks show or racing off to join the Resistance at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

This isn't just a transfer — it's the first chapter of your family's Disney story.

Extra Magic for Families

Traveling with kids can feel overwhelming, but The Genie makes it simple. Every vehicle can be equipped with Graco car seats — rear-facing infant seats, forward-facing toddler seats, and high-back boosters (up to 100 pounds) — all sparkling clean, safety-certified, and provided at no extra cost. Parents love that these seats are dependable and familiar, offering peace of mind for little travelers.

And the stroller service? That's where The Genie truly shines. Families who book round-trips can request Baby Jogger single or double strollers, complete with:

• A parent console for drinks and essentials
• A rain cover for Florida's sudden showers
• A custom name tag so you'll never confuse your stroller in the parks
• A case of bottled water included with every rental

The stroller is waiting in your private vehicle when you arrive — no long rental lines, no hauling gear through the airport. When your vacation is over, The Genie handles pickup, too. It's not just convenient — it's the easiest wish you'll ever make for your vacation.

Beyond the Castle Walls

Of course, Orlando adventures don't stop at Disney's gates. The Genie also offers direct transportation to Universal Orlando Resort, where families can explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and to Port Canaveral, where magical cruises set sail for the Bahamas and beyond.

Whether your plans include castles, coasters, or cruises, The Genie makes the journey part of the fun.

Safety You Can Trust

Your family's safety is always the top priority. Every Genie vehicle is equipped with GPS tracking and dashcams for added peace of mind, as well as fire extinguishers and fully stocked first aid kits in case of emergency. The Genie is also a proud member of the National Limousine Association and the Florida Limousine Association, upholding the highest industry standards for professionalism, safety, and service.

Book Early, Travel Easy

Reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance, and early booking is recommended for busy holiday and school break seasons. The process is quick and simple online, so you can check transportation off your list long before the countdown to Disney begins.

Here's the thing: the magic doesn't start when you reach the parks. It starts the moment you land in Orlando — and with The Genie Transportation Services, you can be sure your family's magical journey begins the right way.

Book your ride today atTheGenieOrlando.com/book-online.

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