Air shocks

[cavie]

Would I realize any noticeable comfort if I removed my coil over shocks and installed air shocks on my 1300 VTX Champion SA trike? I found a kit for $550.00 for the 2 wheel VTX. As I understand it the used the original VTX shocks on the trike conversion. Wife has disc issues and some sudden jolts heart.

 

[mhgoldwing]

Most coil-over shocks have 4 or 5 presets for preload which gives you some flexibility. Air shocks have unlimited preload adjustment which allows you to find tune the ride to the exact load.

That said, when I had to temporarily use a set of coil-over shock while waiting on air shock replacements to arrive, I did not notice any appreciable difference in the ride. Air shocks, particularly on a trike where the shocks are not out in the open, would make it easier to adjust but I doubt would improve the ride quality noticeably.

As a side note, keep in mind that adding air shock introduces more potential for problems such as air leaks, shock seal blowout of the air chamber, etc. Coil-over shocks are pretty much bullet proof.

 

[Phu Cat]

I don't get it, $550 for shocks, $700 for mufflers. How do they get away with that?

Phu Cat

 

[gfdgary]

I don't get it, $550 for shocks, $700 for mufflers. How do they get away with that?

Phu Cat

because we all pay these outrageous prices. No place else to get them other than 3rd party which still costs a freakin fortune. I paid $350 for V&H slip on mufflers. Why? Because they know Harley owners will pay.

 

[tbear]

because we all pay these outrageous prices. No place else to get them other than 3rd party which still costs a freakin fortune. I paid $350 for V&H slip on mufflers. Why? Because they know Harley owners will pay.

it's the same if you own a Boat or ATV. We're crazy enough to buy these toys so we must be crazy enough to pay to keep them running right! or the old saying:
If you can afford to buy it! well-------------------------

 

[mhgoldwing]

Big factor is small quantities manufactured by comparison to what is built for cars and trucks. A lot of basically customized work with small numbers. Same for boats and airplanes. Besides, they have a captive audience.

 

[cavie]

Most coil-over shocks have 4 or 5 presets for preload which gives you some flexibility. Air shocks have unlimited preload adjustment which allows you to find tune the ride to the exact load.

That said, when I had to temporarily use a set of coil-over shock while waiting on air shock replacements to arrive, I did not notice any appreciable difference in the ride. Air shocks, particularly on a trike where the shocks are not out in the open, would make it easier to adjust but I doubt would improve the ride quality noticeably.

As a side note, keep in mind that adding air shock introduces more potential for problems such as air leaks, shock seal blowout of the air chamber, etc. Coil-over shocks are pretty much bullet proof.

I agree, It was gona take a lot of convincing to get me to spend $550.00