Why Upgrade Your Street Glide Suspension?
Installing an air ride suspension for your Street Glide offers a transformative upgrade, providing unparalleled adjustability for comfort and handling. It allows you to precisely control ride height and stiffness, adapting instantly to varying road conditions or rider preferences.
- Adjustable ride height for stance and clearance.
- Superior comfort over stock suspension.
- Enhanced handling and stability.
- Customizable feel for different riding styles.
The stock suspension on a Harley-Davidson Street Glide, while capable, is a compromise designed for a broad audience. For riders seeking a more personalized experience, especially those who frequently carry passengers or luggage, or simply desire a smoother ride on rougher surfaces, an aftermarket air suspension system is a compelling solution. This mechanism is critical for achieving a truly bespoke motorcycle feel.
Understanding Air Ride Basics
At its core, an air ride suspension system replaces traditional coil springs with adjustable air springs, often referred to as air bags. These air bags are connected to an air management system, typically including a compressor, a tank, and control valves. By adding or releasing air, you directly alter the spring rate and the overall height of the motorcycle. This offers a level of control far beyond fixed-rate springs.
Key Components of an Air Suspension Kit
A typical air ride suspension kit for a Street Glide includes several vital components. You'll find the air springs themselves, which mount between the frame and the swingarm. The air compressor silently pumps air into the system. An air tank acts as a reservoir, ensuring quick adjustments. The control unit, often featuring buttons or a digital display, allows you to manage air pressure and dump valves. Finally, air lines and fittings connect everything, ensuring a leak-free operation. Understanding this principle is fundamental.
This system allows for a significantly lower stance when parked or cruising, enhancing the bike's visual appeal and making it more accessible. It also provides a plush ride by absorbing road imperfections more effectively than many conventional setups.
The primary consideration involves balancing performance with ease of installation and maintenance.
Choosing the Right Air Ride System for Your Street Glide
When selecting an air ride suspension for your Street Glide, several factors dictate the best choice. Compatibility with your specific model year is paramount, as suspension geometries can vary. Beyond that, consider your primary goals: do you prioritize the lowest possible ride height, the plushest ride quality, or a balance of both? Your intended use—solo cruising, touring with a passenger, or aggressive riding—will also influence your decision.
Air Spring Types and Brands
You’ll encounter different types of air springs, but the most common for motorcycles are bellows or sleeve-style bags. Reputable manufacturers offer systems tailored for the Street Glide, such as those from Arnott, Legend Suspension, and Performance Machine. Each brand has distinct approaches to shock design and damping characteristics. For example, Legend often focuses on integrated shock/air spring units, while Arnott might offer separate air springs that work with modified or replacement shocks.
It is imperative to acknowledge that not all systems are created equal; quality components and thoughtful design lead to a superior riding experience and greater longevity.
Factors for Optimal Performance
Beyond the air springs, the quality of the compressor and the control system matters. A fast, quiet compressor and a user-friendly control interface enhance the ownership experience. Some systems offer pre-set ride height memories, which can be incredibly convenient. The damping characteristics of the shocks themselves are also critical; they work in concert with the air springs to manage wheel control and comfort. Look for systems that allow for independent adjustment of compression and rebound damping if maximum tunability is desired.
The true value of air ride lies in its ability to adapt to every mile, every rider, and every load.
Our analysis indicates that systems featuring internal dampening bypasses or adjustable valves offer the most nuanced ride tuning capabilities for discerning riders.
Verify that any system you consider includes all necessary mounting hardware, airlines, and electrical connectors for a complete installation; kits that require purchasing additional items can lead to unexpected costs and delays.
Installation and Maintenance Best Practices
What are the common pitfalls when installing an air ride suspension on a Street Glide?
The installation process for an air ride suspension for Street Glide can range from relatively straightforward to moderately complex, depending on the specific kit and your mechanical aptitude. Most kits are designed for direct bolt-on replacement of the stock rear shocks. However, routing air lines neatly and securely, connecting the electrical components for the compressor and controls, and properly testing for leaks are crucial steps. Many owners opt for professional installation to ensure everything is set up perfectly, especially when dealing with air ride suspension fittings and ensuring a robust seal.
Step-by-Step Installation Overview
Begin by gathering all components and tools. Safely lift the rear of the motorcycle, ensuring it is stable. Remove the old shocks, noting their mounting points. Install the new air springs and any associated hardware. Route the air lines from the springs to the compressor and control unit location, using provided clamps or zip ties to prevent abrasion or kinking. Connect the compressor's electrical leads to a suitable power source and the control unit. Mount the control unit within easy reach. Once assembled, slowly add air pressure and meticulously check all connections for leaks using soapy water. Adjust air pressure to achieve your desired ride height and test ride cautiously.
When routing air lines, avoid sharp bends or areas prone to excessive heat or abrasion; protective loom or conduit can significantly extend their lifespan.
Routine Maintenance for Longevity
Regular maintenance is key to the longevity and reliable performance of your air ride suspension. Periodically inspect air lines for any signs of cracking, chafing, or leaks. Check air pressure settings to ensure they remain consistent. Keep the compressor intake filter clean if accessible. Listen for any unusual noises from the compressor or air springs during operation. Occasionally, clean the external components with mild soap and water. If your system includes an air ride suspension tank, check its drain valve periodically to remove any accumulated moisture, similar to how one might service an air bag trailer suspension.
This mechanism is critical for preventing premature component failure and ensuring a consistently smooth ride.
The primary consideration involves proactive checks rather than reactive repairs.