How to Pick the Right Air Ride for Your Harley Touring Motorcycle

What is an Air Ride Suspension?

An air ride suspension is a type of vehicle suspension system that uses air bags or air bellows instead of traditional steel springs.

These air bags are connected to an adjustable air compressor and air tank, allowing the rider to control the amount of air pressure and, consequently, the ride height and stiffness of the suspension.

The air ride system works by inflating or deflating the air bags, which act as the springing medium. When air is pumped into the bags, they become more inflated and stiffer, raising the vehicle's ride height.

Conversely, when air is released from the bags, they become softer and allow the suspension to compress more, lowering the ride height.

One of the primary benefits of an air ride suspension is its adjustability. Riders can easily adjust the ride height and stiffness to suit different riding conditions, load weights, or personal preferences. This versatility allows for a smoother, more comfortable ride on various terrains and ensures optimal handling and stability.

Another advantage of air ride suspensions is their ability to level the vehicle when carrying heavy loads or towing trailers.

As weight is added, the air bags can be inflated to compensate for the increased load, maintaining a level ride and preventing excessive squat or dive.

Unlike traditional coil or leaf spring suspensions, air ride systems are not prone to sagging or loss of performance over time. The air bags maintain their shape and pressure, ensuring consistent ride quality throughout the lifespan of the system.

Overall, an air ride suspension offers Harley touring bike riders a level of customization, comfort, and versatility that traditional suspension systems cannot match, making it a popular upgrade for those seeking the ultimate riding experience.

Why Install an Air Ride on Your Harley Touring Bike?

Installing an air ride suspension on your Harley Touring bike offers several significant advantages that can greatly enhance your riding experience. One of the primary benefits is improved comfort.

Air ride systems allow you to adjust the suspension to your desired firmness or softness, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride, even on long journeys or rough terrain.

Another key advantage of air ride suspensions is their load-leveling capability. Touring bikes are often loaded with substantial weight from luggage, passengers, or cargo. Traditional coil-over suspensions can struggle to maintain proper ride height and handling characteristics when carrying heavy loads.

Air ride systems, however, can be easily adjusted to compensate for the added weight, ensuring that your bike maintains its optimal ride height and handling characteristics, regardless of the load.

Adjustable ride height is another compelling reason to consider an air ride suspension for your Harley Touring bike.

With the ability to raise or lower your bike's ride height at the push of a button, you can easily navigate through challenging terrain, clear obstacles, or simply achieve your desired stance and appearance. This versatility not only enhances your riding experience but also adds a touch of customization to your bike's overall look.

Popular Air Ride Kits for Harley Touring Models

When it comes to the best air ride suspension kits for Harley touring bikes, a few brands really stand out from the crowd. Legend Suspension Systems, Slamin' Air, and Air Ride Technologies offer some of the most popular and highly-rated air suspension solutions.

Legend Suspension Systems is a big name in the air ride game. Their Revo-A and Revo-B kits are designed specifically for Harley models like the Street Glide, Road Glide, and Electra Glide. Legend's kits allow you to adjust the ride height with the touch of a button, giving you an unbeatable smooth ride. They're also constructed from lightweight aluminum and stainless steel components for durability.

Slamin' Air is another fantastic choice for Harley riders. Their Level Air kits integrate seamlessly into the chassis and provide up to 4" of height adjustment. Slamin' Air's system is unique in that it uses a compact, powerful compressor that can be mounted almost anywhere on the bike. Plus, their easy-to-use air control modules make dialing in your perfect ride a breeze.

For the ultimate in adjustability, check out the offerings from Air Ride Technologies. Their FXR Air Suspension kit for Baggers allows independent adjustment of the front and rear ride heights. You can easily level out your bike when riding two-up or with a packed trunk. Air Ride Technologies systems are fully rebuildable as well for long-lasting performance.

No matter which brand you choose, installing a proper air ride suspension on your Harley touring bike will transform the riding experience. You'll enjoy a plush, controlled ride that can be dialed in perfectly for any load or conditions.

Legend Air Ride Suspension

Legend Air Ride is one of the leading manufacturers of air suspension systems for Harley-Davidson touring models.

Their kits are designed to provide a smooth, comfortable ride while also allowing you to adjust the height of your bike with the push of a button.

Features:

• Heavy-duty air shocks with adjustable air pressure
• Compact, lightweight compressor system
• Easy-to-use handlebar-mounted controls
• Plug-and-play wiring for simple installation
• Available for Harley Touring models from 1997-present

Models Covered:

Legend Air Ride offers suspension kits for a wide range of Harley touring bikes, including:

• Street Glide
• Road Glide
• Electra Glide
• Road King
• Ultra Classic

Installation Process:

While installing an air ride system requires some mechanical ability, Legend Air Ride kits are designed for relatively straightforward installation. The process typically involves:

1. Removing the existing suspension components
2. Installing the new air shocks and compressor unit
3. Routing the air lines and wiring harness
4. Connecting the handlebar-mounted controls

Detailed instructions and all necessary hardware are included with each kit.

Pricing:

Legend Air Ride suspension kits typically range from $1,200 to $1,800, depending on the specific model and options selected. While not an inexpensive upgrade, many Harley riders feel the improved comfort and adjustability are well worth the investment.

Comparing the Top Air Ride Brands

When it comes to choosing the best air ride suspension for your Harley touring bike, there are a few top brands that stand out from the crowd. Let's take a side-by-side look at some of the key features, pricing, and reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Legend Air Ride Suspension

• Feature rich kits with adjustable ride height, air shocks, and air compressors
• Prices range from $1,200 to $1,800 depending on the model
• Excellent customer reviews praising the smooth ride and easy installation

Slamin' Air Ride Systems

• Known for their high-quality components and attention to detail
• Kits start around $1,400 and go up based on bike model and options
• Positive reviews highlighting the improved handling and customizable ride

Airride Air Suspension Kits

• Affordable option with kits ranging from $800 to $1,200
• Basic kits focus on smooth ride, more expensive ones add adjustability
• Some complaints about longevity, but many satisfied with value

No matter which brand you choose, an air ride suspension can transform the way your Harley touring bike rides and handles. Compare the features that matter most to you, consider your budget, and read plenty of real customer reviews before making your final decision.

Installing an Air Ride - What to Expect

Installing an air ride suspension on your Harley touring bike is a significant upgrade that requires some mechanical skills and the right tools.

While the process is not overly complex for someone with basic wrenching abilities, it's more involved than a simple bolt-on modification.

The installation difficulty can vary depending on the specific air ride kit you choose and your level of experience working on motorcycles.

Most reputable kits come with detailed instructions and all the necessary components, but you'll still need to allocate a full day or more for the installation process.

Typical tools needed for an air ride installation include basic hand tools like wrenches, sockets, and pliers, as well as some specialized tools like a fork stem bearing driver, brake bleeding kit, and possibly a floor jack or lift to safely elevate the motorcycle.

Having an impact wrench or air tools can also speed up the process.

In terms of costs, air ride kits for Harley touring models can range from around $1,000 to $2,500 or more, depending on the brand, features, and quality of components. This doesn't include any additional tools you may need to purchase or the cost of professional installation if you choose to have a shop handle the work.

If you're reasonably mechanically inclined and have a well-equipped garage or access to tools, installing an air ride suspension yourself can save a significant amount of money compared to paying for professional installation.

However, it's essential to follow the instructions carefully and take your time to ensure a proper and safe installation.

Maintaining Your Air Ride System

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your air ride suspension system continues performing optimally and lasts for years to come. Here are some routine maintenance tips and troubleshooting advice for common air ride issues:

Routine Maintenance

• Check air line fittings regularly for leaks and ensure they are tight
• Inspect air lines for any cracks, abrasions or dry rotting
• Keep the air suspension system clean and free of debris
• Apply a rubber conditioner to air lines and bags periodically
• Check and adjust air pressure as needed (refer to manufacturer specs)

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Leak in the system: Use a spray bottle with soapy water to check for air bubbles indicating a leak. Tighten fittings or replace damaged air lines as needed.

• Uneven loading/sagging: Check that air pressure is equal on both sides. Add air to any low side or deflate the high side to level out the suspension.

• Compressor not working: Ensure electrical connections are secure. Check compressor ground wire and fuse. Listen for the compressor running when activated.

• System not inflating/deflating properly: Inspect air lines for any kinks, obstructions or damage. Check that the intake/exhaust valves are operating correctly.

Addressing small issues promptly can prevent larger, costlier problems down the road. Don't hesitate to consult an experienced air suspension technician for any issues you can't resolve.

Air vs Coil-Over Suspension for Touring

When it comes to suspension upgrades for your Harley touring bike, the decision often comes down to air ride vs coil-over shocks. Both offer significant improvements over the stock suspension, but they have distinct differences that cater to different riding styles and priorities.

Air Ride Suspension Pros:

• Adjustable ride height and firmness on the fly with the push of a button or flip of a switch
• Ability to adjust for varying loads (passengers, luggage, etc.) and maintain optimal ride quality
• Smoother ride quality by absorbing bumps more gradually
• Potential for lowering the bike's center of gravity for improved handling
• Easier installation than coil-overs on some models

Air Ride Suspension Cons:

• Higher initial cost than coil-over shocks
• Requires an air compressor system and air lines
• Potential for air leaks causing the suspension to deflate
• Limited suspension travel compared to high-performance coil-overs

Coil-Over Shock Pros:

• Excellent suspension performance, especially for spirited riding
• Wide range of spring rates available to suit your riding style
• Simple, reliable design with minimal maintenance
• Lower initial cost compared to air ride kits

Coil-Over Shock Cons:

• Ride height is fixed once installed (unless using adjustable coil-overs)
• Less ability to adapt to varying loads and maintain ideal sag
• Harsher ride quality, especially over smaller bumps and imperfections
• More involved installation process on some models

Ultimately, the choice between air ride and coil-over shocks depends on your priorities. Air ride systems offer unmatched versatility and the ability to fine-tune your ride on the fly, while coil-overs provide exceptional suspension performance and a more affordable upgrade path for the avid rider.

Upgrade Your Ride with an Air Suspension

If you're a Harley-Davidson touring bike enthusiast, upgrading to an air ride suspension system can take your riding experience to new heights.

Air suspension systems offer a smoother, more comfortable ride by allowing you to adjust the air pressure and ride height according to your preferences and riding conditions.

Here's why you should consider upgrading to an air ride suspension for your Harley touring bike.

Summary of Benefits

• Improved Ride Comfort: Air suspension systems absorb bumps and uneven surfaces more effectively than traditional coil-over shocks, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride.
• Adjustable Ride Height: With the push of a button or flip of a switch, you can raise or lower your bike's ride height to suit your preferences or accommodate different load conditions.
• Better Load Handling: Air suspension systems can easily adapt to changes in weight distribution, whether you're riding solo or carrying a passenger and luggage.
• Customizable Ride Quality: Many air ride kits allow you to fine-tune the air pressure to achieve your desired ride firmness or softness.
• Enhanced Handling: By maintaining proper ride height and balance, air suspension systems can improve your bike's handling characteristics, especially when carrying heavy loads.

Recommended Air Ride Kits

1. Legend Air Ride Suspension: Known for their quality and performance, Legend Air Ride kits are popular among Harley touring bike owners. They offer various models suitable for different Harley models, including the Street Glide, Road Glide, and Electra Glide.

2. Slamin' Air Ride Systems: Slamin' Air Ride is another reputable brand that provides high-quality air suspension kits for Harley touring bikes. Their kits are designed to be easy to install and offer adjustable ride height and firmness.

3. Airride Air Suspension Kits: Airride offers affordable yet reliable air suspension kits for Harley Softail, Touring, and Dyna models. Their kits are known for their durability and ease of installation.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to an air ride suspension system can significantly enhance your riding experience on your Harley touring bike. With improved comfort, adjustability, and handling, an air ride suspension is an investment worth considering, especially if you frequently ride long distances or carry heavy loads.

Research the different brands and models to find the best fit for your specific Harley model and riding preferences, and get ready to experience a whole new level of riding enjoyment.