Common Mistakes When Adjusting Harley Performance Bagger Shock Absorbers

For most bikers, words like preload, damping or rebound sound like swear words. But it's actually very important and relates to our safety as riders. So let's be very brief and clear on this topic.

Shock absorbers are an essential part of a motorcycle, ensuring comfort and safety. Harley performance bagger owners often choose Ohlins or similar manufacturers’ shock absorbers for several reasons:

Quality and Reliability: Ohlins shock absorbers are known for their high quality and durability. They provide better riding comfort and stability, especially on uneven roads.

Adjustment Capabilities: These shock absorbers allow precise adjustment of preload, damping, and rebound, which is crucial for achieving optimal riding comfort and safety.

Improved Handling: Using high-quality shock absorbers makes the motorcycle easier to handle, especially in corners and at high speeds.

Common Mistakes When Adjusting Harley Performance Bagger Shock Absorbers

Introduction

Harley performance bagger motorcycles are known for their power and comfort, but to fully utilize their potential, it is essential to properly adjust the shock absorbers. Improper adjustment can not only reduce riding comfort but also pose a safety risk. In this article, we will discuss the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Incorrect Preload Adjustment

  • Too much preload: This can cause excessive spring compression, making the motorcycle too stiff. This is especially noticeable on uneven roads, where the motorcycle loses grip on the road surface. Too much preload can also cause excessive load on the front fork, leading to faster wear.
  • Too little preload: This can cause excessive spring expansion, making the motorcycle unstable, especially in corners. It can also cause excessive load on the rear, leading to poor grip and handling.

2. Incorrect Damping Adjustment

  • Too much damping: This can cause excessive resistance in the shock absorber, making the motorcycle too stiff and uncomfortable to ride. This is especially noticeable on uneven roads, where the motorcycle cannot properly absorb shocks.
  • Too little damping: This can cause too little resistance, making the motorcycle unstable and losing grip on the road surface. This is especially dangerous at high speeds or in sharp corners.

3. Insufficient Rebound Adjustment

  • Too fast rebound: This can cause the shock absorber to return to its original position too quickly, making the motorcycle unstable and difficult to control. This is especially noticeable on uneven roads, where the motorcycle “bounces.”
  • Too slow rebound: This can cause the shock absorber to return too slowly, causing the motorcycle to lose grip on the road surface. This is especially dangerous at high speeds or in sharp corners.

4. Insufficient Testing

  • Importance of testing: After each adjustment, it is necessary to perform a test ride to feel the differences and determine if further adjustments are needed. Insufficient testing can lead to improper settings that can negatively affect riding quality and safety.

5. Ignoring Manufacturer Recommendations

  • Manufacturer recommendations: Manufacturer recommendations are an excellent starting point. Ignoring them can lead to mistakes that can negatively affect riding quality and safety. Always start with the manufacturer’s recommended settings and then make further adjustments according to your needs.

6. Irregular Maintenance

  • Importance of maintenance: Shock absorbers require regular maintenance. Insufficient maintenance can lead to their wear and poor performance. Regularly check the condition of the shock absorbers and perform necessary maintenance to ensure their longevity.

Conclusion

Properly adjusted shock absorbers can significantly improve the riding quality and safety of your Harley performance bagger. Take the time to understand and adjust your motorcycle’s shock absorbers to enjoy a smooth and pleasant ride.



LORD'S performance team

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