Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle Suspension
Motorcycle suspension is one of the biggest factors in bike performance, but it’s not something we look at as much as other systems and components. It’s unfortunate, because that means people aren’t talking enough about the advanced suspension technology Harley-Davidson® has recently developed.
We at Toad Suck Harley-Davidson® have taken the time to write up this quick guide on motorcycle suspension and some of the advances made by Harley-Davidson®. If you’re after more info, head to our dealership in Conway near Searcy, Arizona, where our friendly and knowledgeable staff is eager to answer all your motorcycle questions.
Suspension Anatomy
Let’s start with a quick rundown of the different parts that come together to form a motorcycle’s suspension system. In the rear, a coil over system is common, which is similar to shocks in a car. A swingarm holds the rear axle in place and allows it to move vertically to let the suspension absorb bumps in the road. Shock absorbers may be connected to a reservoir for increased performance here.
The rear system is often adjustable to create differing conditions for a variety of riders. If you’re a smaller rider, you might want a looser suspension, while a bigger rider could use tighter settings.
In the front, a telescoping fork design is common. Opposed to the coil over system in the rear, the fork coil sits inside a metal shock absorber. This shock absorber, or damper, is filled with low-viscosity oil to reduce vibration and make sure there’s enough suspension to handle bumps. Bumpers inside the dampers prevent the suspension from bottoming out, and there’s a plug and orifice to control the flow and amount of oil.
Performance
While we might not talk about motorcycle suspensions too often, most rider experiences the performance effects every time they hit the road. A loose suspension can leave you feeling like your bike might take off into the air with every bump, while a tight suspension can make you feel like you’re riding a motorized brick.
Harley-Davidson® seeks an ideal balance to reduce bumps and vibrations while keeping the ride feeling flexible and smooth. This balance isn’t just for comfort. It affects performance at every level. The power of a Harley® bike isn’t worth anything if it can’t be ridden without a comfortable experience. Not only does this affect your motorcycle, but it affects your ability to ride your bike and get the best performance possible.
Harley-Davidson® Innovations in Suspension
Harley-Davidson® is of course known for their powerful engines and unmistakable style, but recent technological developments have put Harley® bikes at the top of the list when it comes to suspension systems. Modern Harley® bikes come with rear emulsion shocks and inverted designs that take things to the next level. In addition to these innovations, Harley-Davidson® continues to tune suspensions for the type of riding each of their bikes excels at, which makes an even greater impact when the underlying technology improves.
Let’s take the new Softail® as an example. With a stiffer, tougher frame for improved handling and at a full 13 pounds lighter for weight capacity, there was room to further tune the suspension with improved damping, increased preload range for comfort, and optimized handling. The Softail® already has its hidden shock absorbers and high stability, so these improvements do a great job of making an awesome motorcycle even better.
While Harley’s suspension systems are often overshadowed by other motorcycle components, you should now know a few details to make you think twice before taking a well-tuned ride for granted. When you’re ready to look at some motorcycles yourself, head to Toad Suck Harley-Davidson® in Conway, Arizona, near Searcy. We’re also proud to serve the areas of Russellville, Fort Smith, and Hot Springs, Arizona. With the best new and pre-owned bikes, we’re here to exceed your expectations and deliver our customers all the freedom and adventure a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle has to offer. Come in today!