Showa Shocks on Harley-Davidson – What’s the Scoop?

Modifications & Upgrades
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Seeking Help on Showa Shocks for My Harley

I’m diving deep into some upgrades for my Harley and wanted to get some input on Showa shocks. I’ve heard a lot about their performance, but I’m trying to figure out the best fit for my bike, especially since I ride a Sportster.

What I’ve Found So Far

From my research, I see that Showa shocks are quite popular among riders looking for enhanced comfort and handling. Here are a few points I’ve gathered:

  • Performance: Many users report that Showa shocks provide excellent damping performance, leading to a smoother ride. This is especially beneficial for long-distance riding.
  • Compatibility: It seems like not all Showa shocks are compatible with every Harley model. I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience with different combinations, particularly for Sportster and Dyna Glide models.
  • Aftermarket Options: I’ve seen a number of aftermarket Showa shocks listed on eBay and other sites. Are there specific ones you guys recommend? I’m a bit hesitant about aftermarket products and their reliability.

Questions for the Community

  1. Are the factory-installed Showa shocks worth the upgrade for someone who rides often?
  2. What’s the best place to buy them?
  3. Any tips for installation or maintenance?

Would really appreciate any advice from the community! Your experiences and recommendations will go a long way in helping me decide what to do next.

Thanks in advance!

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I’ve switched to Showa shocks on my Harley, and they made a world of difference! The riding comfort is noticeably improved, especially on long trips.

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That’s great to hear! How do they compare in handling? I’ve heard mixed reviews.

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In terms of handling, I find the Showa shocks provide a tighter feel on corners. They help keep the bike stable at higher speeds too.

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Totally agree with you, @michael41! The stability on turns gives me more confidence when riding. The stock shocks were a bit mushy for my taste.

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What about durability? I’ve heard the OEM shocks tend to wear out faster. Is that true with Showa?

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From my experience, the Showa shocks seem to hold up better over time. I’ve been using mine for over a year with no issues.

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That’s awesome! I really want to upgrade my shocks. Can anyone suggest a budget-friendly option of Showa shocks?

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I’ve seen some competitive prices online. Just make sure to check for compatibility with your model! Always a good idea.

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Sounds like a plan! But will the installation be a hassle? I’m not the best with mechanics.

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It can be a bit tricky, but you could always take it to a shop. Better safe than sorry, especially with suspension mods!

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I’ve had Showa shocks for a while, and I absolutely love them! Just wish they would make my bike fly too! Haha.

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Funny you say that, @alexanderpatel! However, if they could fly, I’d probably forget how to ride altogether!

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It’s interesting hearing everyone’s thoughts. I guess everyone has their own preference, but performance-wise, Showa sure sounds appealing!

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Definitely! But remember that not every rider will have the same experience. Personal riding style plays a big part.

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Fair point, but isn’t it worth trying them out? There’s also a chance they might even make riding more enjoyable overall.

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You guys make a compelling case for Showa shocks! Time for me to consider upgrading too, thanks for sharing!

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I’ve installed Showa shocks on my Harley, and I found that having a good set of tools is essential. You’ll need a wrench set, torque wrench, and a jack. Be sure to support the bike properly before starting!

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Great tip! I also recommend a socket set to make the process smoother. Any advice on torque specs?

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Don’t forget to wear gloves! It can get messy, especially if you’re working with old shocks. Safety first!

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