The Top 10 Best Shocks For Softail 2024: For Improved Comfort and Handling Purpose

When you invest in the best shocks for Softail, the addition or installation on your bike enhances handling and braking greatly.

Also, it improves control so that you can enjoy guaranteed comfort during every ride.

Basically, the main function of shocks on motorcycles is to ensure that the wheels hold up or grip firmly and powerfully when the road condition is not good enough or during emergency situations.

When roads are covered with bumps and holes or during off-road adventures, the best shocks give you confidence.

We understand the desire of every Harley Softail owner to enjoy a smooth and uncompromised riding experience at all times.

This is why you must choose your design of brand or shocks wisely.

There are various designs of shocks on the market; picking the ideal choice for your Harley may be difficult and stressful.

To simplify this process, we have reviewed multiple designs on the market and eventually selected 10 models that stand out.

The top brands on the market are Progressive Suspension, Burly, Factory Spec, Superior Dixie, Monroe, HTTMT, SMT, and Legends Revo.

These models or designs are selected based on crucial factors such as durability, stylish design/appearance, affordability, ease of installation, and riders’ comfort upon installation.

What is The Best Shocks For Softail?

The best brand of shocks for Softail is Progressive Suspension. This design offers incredible firmness and improves the overall ride experience.

Why is Progressive Suspension The Best Shocks For Softail?

Progressive Suspension is an excellent design choice for riders who love adventures—especially individuals who love riding or traveling on long trips.

The progressive Suspension offers impressive comfort and enhances the appearance, feel, and performance of your bike.

This is one of the few exceptional designs on the market that can compete with the most expensive brands and models in terms of performance and effectiveness.

Comparison Table of Best Shocks For Softail

10 Best Shocks For Softail Reviews

01. Progressive Suspension 422-4037C – Best Popular Rear Shocks For Softtail

 

Highlighted Features

• Rear suspension shock (2 units)
• 9 x 6.7 x 3.4 inches in dimension
• Chrome plated finish
• Guarantees up to 2 inches of ride height adjustment
• ‎11.1 pounds in weight
• A dual coil shock system

Progressive Suspension 422-4037C offers an incredible level of adjustment that supports a smooth and safe ride on bumpy roads or rough terrains.

These shocks are installed on the rear side of your bike, and the installation process is straightforward.

Anyone with basic mechanical skills can easily put them together without stress.

This design supports up to 2 inches of ride height adjustment, eliminating bottom-out issues.

The shocks can comfortably accommodate varying loads and rider weights. Generally, they can hold or withstand a load of about 250 pounds.

If you are looking for a high-performance design to improve your bike’s overall performance and guarantees a safe and comfortable ride experience.

Especially during long rides, these shocks are a worthy investment. Although it is a bit pricey, you will certainly get value on your investment.

Pros

• Guarantees smooth ride experience by improving stability and handling
• Your bike will feel more coordinated, and it inspires confidence greatly
• Easy to install. An incredible design or model for bike owners with basic mechanical skills
• Durable design. A perfect choice for riders with aggressive riding style

Cons

• It is quite hard to lower down your bike’s height with these shocks

02. Progressive Suspension 422-4001C – Best Quality Shocks For Harley Softtail

 

Highlighted Features

• 2 inches of ride height adjustment
• ‎17 x 7 x 3.5 inches in dimension
• High-pressure gas-charged monotube
• Chrome plated finish
• Dual coil shock system for rear installation
• ‎9 pounds in weight

This design is a popular pick among adventure and long-distance riders. Definitely, there must be something special that the 422-4001C offers, compared to other models on the market.

If you are looking at replacing your old or faulty rear shocks, and you are unsure about the model or brand to go for.

Especially if your bike bottoms out, here is an excellent replacement and upgrade choice.

These shocks are strongly made, which gives them heavy-duty and top-quality status.

It improves the overall ride experience (enhances handling, stability, and comfort) and supports ride height adjustment up to about 2 inches.

When you have the appropriate tools, supported with the repair manual, the installation is what any Softail owner can do in their garage or at the comfort of their home.

Progressive Suspension 422-4001C is adjustable for spring preload, ensuring it efficiently accommodates different loads and rider weights.

Pros

• Guarantees comfortable and consistent riding performance on bumpy roads
• No adjustment is needed before installation. The shocks align perfectly with factory set-up
• Heavy-duty, top-quality, and easy to adjust
• Your bike’s tires won’t leap

Cons

• The price is quite costly

03. Burly B28-1203B

 

Highlighted Features

• 17 x 7 x 3 inches in dimension
• Adjustable weight
• Comes in black color
• ‎6 pounds in weight
• 5 inches low riding rear shock

This model is an ideal choice or option for small riders. If you are looking for shocks that can comfortably and efficiently lower your bike at a pocket-friendly price, here is the perfect design for you.

Burly B28-1203B is one of the most affordable and efficient shocks you will find on the market.

When installed on your Harley Softail, it eliminates worries and concerns related to footing issues or difficulties.

In the end, small riders can conveniently handle their bikes for a smoother and enjoyable ride at all times.

Also, if your bike finds it hard to retain its stability or bounce when riding on bumpy roads or rough terrains.

The B28-1203B fixes these issues and guarantees an improved riding experience by ensuring you are relieved from irritating back pains that may occur due to bad road conditions.

Since these shocks are preload-adjustable, they can easily accommodate varying loads and rider weights.

Overall, here is an excellent low riding shock absorber for guaranteed value on investment.

Pros

• Ensures riders can reach the ground easily for a comfortable riding experience
• Easy to install, affordable, and fits perfectly on an installed bike
• Bike handling at every ride becomes smoother and more enjoyable

Cons

• Contrary to the information highlighted in the description, it doesn’t come with fork springs

04. Factory Spec FS-04503 HS-2

 

Highlighted Features

• 13 pounds in weight
• Installation components
• Chrome Finish
• Adjustable spring preload
• 3 x 8.4 x 4 inches in dimension
• Sold and packaged in pairs (2 units)

If you ride the Harley Softail, you can’t get it wrong with these stock shocks.

Factory Spec FS-04503 HS-2 is one of the smaller designs on the market. So, riders can easily adjust their bikes up to 2.5 inches lower.

This improves the ride experience and as well offers incredible comfort and stability.

In the kit are all the necessary installation hardware, making the assembling and coupling process easier.

There is no need for custom or special installation tools to get the job done.

The price is pocket-friendly, making it one of the most affordable designs you will find on the market.

If you are a small rider looking for a design that can improve your bike’s performance without breaking the bank, don’t look elsewhere.

The FS-04503 HS-2 has gathered excellent reviews on top market places like Amazon, which shows how pleased and satisfied bike owners are upon installation on their motorcycles.

Pros

• The fit and adjustments are excellent
• Improves the bike’s appearance and guarantees a smooth ride
• Easy installation, and drops bike’s height up to 2.5 inches
• Top-quality stock shocks replacement

Cons

• No installation manual
• You may need to make a few adjustments for excellent installation

05. Superior Dixie 54508-89A

 

Highlighted Features

• Rear shock absorbers
• A perfect fit for 1989-1999 Softail
• 11 inches in length
• Black Finish
• Installation hardware

These 11 inches rear shocks are a perfect fit for Softail 1989 to 1999 models. They are adjustable, and they improve performance, handling, and comfort.

Superior Dixie 54508-89A is rated among riders for its outstanding qualities and has gathered impressive comparisons with the expensive designs on the market.

These shocks are well-cushioned to withstand bounces and vibrations that you may encounter on the road.

Once installed on your bike, you can confidently ride on rough roads (bumpy and with potholes) without straining or hurting your back.

You do not have to be an experienced mechanic to handle the installation. All you need to do is remove the worn-out units and bolt on these stocks accordingly.

Pros

• Guarantees improvement in performance, handling, stability, and comfort
• Absorbs vibrations and bounces exceptionally well, thereby relieving back pain
• Quick and painless installation process

Cons

• No installation guide

06. Progressive Suspension 422-4101C

 

Highlighted Features

• Ride height adjustment up 2 inches
• 5 x 10.5 x 5 inches in dimension
• A dual coil shock system
• Chrome Plated Finish
• Adjustable preload
• 6 pounds in weight

The Progressive Suspension 422-4101C is another incredible design that you can look at or consider for an upgrade.

This is one of the most expensive designs on the market. The great news is that riders get amazing value on their investment.

These stocks offer excellent improvement in appearance, performance, handling, stability, and comfort.

The chrome finish is catchy. It enhances the appearance of your bike by making it very attractive, thereby giving it a new look.

Suppose you want to upgrade the appearance and performance of your Harley without necessarily making an expensive upgrade.

In that case, you may consider investing in this design.

Ride height can be adjusted up to 2 inches. It accommodates varying loads and rider weights comfortably.

Usually, it has a load capacity of about 250 pounds.

After successful installation, it guarantees a stable and smooth riding experience, thereby alleviating strains and pains that could result from potholes and bumps on rough roads.

Are you looking for reliable shocks that function exceptionally well on Harley Softail? You may want to invest in the 422-4101C.

Pros

• Offers great preload adjustability
• Guarantees incredible upgrade in ride experience
• Gives your bike a new feel and look

Cons

• An expensive design

07. Monroe Shocks & Struts Max-Air MA785

 

Highlighted Features

• ‎21 x 7.8 x 3.5 inches in dimension
• Sintered iron piston for enhanced durability
• Equipped with the air hose kit
• 1 pound in weight
• Lubricated air sleeve
• 15 inches in length

This is one of the most affordable air ride suspension shocks you will find on the market. Usually, air ride shocks are a bit costly.

As a result, Harley riders may want to question the quality of these shocks. The amazing thing is that they hold on well and work excellently well.

The quality, performance, and effectiveness of these shocks are supported by numerous excellent reviews from riders.

If you have always been fascinated about air ride suspension, but you can’t afford one because of the premium or expensive pricing.

Here is a pocket-friendly option that you can go for. They work great, and you will be pleased with them upon installation.

The installation is smooth and straightforward. The application is what everyone can do independently, irrespective of your mechanical experience.

The lubricated air sleeve lowers friction and guarantees a smooth ride.

According to a few users or riders, air leakage may occur. Some riders even complained that the top mount breaks after some time.

These issues can be fixed or corrected with ease. All you need to do is weld the top support to prevent breaks or leaks.

Pros

• Excellent handling for a smooth and consistent riding experience
• Durable and exceptionally built for long-lasting performance
• Very affordable and easy to install

Cons

• Air leakage may occur as a result of cracks in the top mount welds

08. HTTMT LS003

 

Highlighted Features

• Black Finish
• ‎13.39 x 5.43 x 3.31 inches in dimension
• 5 inches slammer lowering shocks
• Installation hardware
• Preload adjustable design
• ‎53 pounds in weight

If you are looking for a shocks design that is durable and long-lasting, this design is an accurate pick.

It is a product of excellent research and development. The impressive build guarantees durability, efficiency, and exceptional quality.

HTTMT LS003 is designed to withstand extreme conditions and elements so that you can enjoy its remarkable and excellent performance for an extended period without any issues.

Irrespective of the season or weather condition (winter or summer), these shocks hold up perfectly and perform efficiently.

The LS003 is not affected by rust and corrosion, and it doesn’t deform under harsh temperatures or excessive heat.

If you are an adventure lover who seeks protection, comfort, and stability while riding on rough terrains or during long-distance tours.

These shocks are reliable and can be trusted for improved ride quality.

Pros

• It can accommodate varying rider weight
• Improves bike performance while riding on rough terrains
• It can handle extreme conditions and elements
• The damping capability is excellent

Cons

• You may experience a slightly challenging riding experience after installation. It gets better over time

09. SMT B07JN2JTB5

 

Highlighted Features

• Black Finish
• 5 inch eye-to-eye
• Preload adjustable design
• 2 shock absorbers
• Installation components
• Made from quality materials

The suspension shocks guarantee incredible absorption on bumpy roads or rough terrains.

When you have these shocks fitted on your bike, you can confidently drive on pumps and potholes without heavy impacts on your back.

They totally eliminate strains on the back as a result of multiple bounces.

SMT B07JN2JTB5 improves handling and stability and as well enhances acceleration.

If you are an adventurer or an individual who loves long-distance rides, this is an excellent choice for you.

The performance is satisfying, thereby ensuring you get value on your investment.

Overall, these suspension shocks lower your bike’s rear and improve your bike’s appearance. Thanks to its elegant design.

Also, the installation is easy, and all the components you need for a successful installation process are included in the kit.

Pros

• Eliminates tire drags and guarantees a smooth ride
• An excellent choice for low riders
• Smooth and straightforward installation
• An inexpensive design

Cons

• No installation manual

10. Legends Revo-A 1310-0959 Shocks

 

Highlighted Features

• 13 inches in length
• 6 external knob adjustments
• 500 pounds weight capacity
• ‎15 x 15 x 6 inches in dimension
• Black Finish
• 55 pounds in weight

Legends Revo-A 1310-0959 Shocks are excellently designed. This model is one of the premium options we have on the market.

These top-quality suspension shocks improve your ride quality, thereby making you feel confident on the roads.

If you are an experienced rider, who wants to spice up your bike’s appearance and performance.

Here is a design that gives you a natural feeling of excellence and class at every ride.

The external knob adjustment and the adjustable coil suspension features support efficient rebound damping.

If you are an inexperienced rider, this may not be an excellent choice for you. For instance, the height adjustment may be a bit tricky.

These shocks are well-built and can easily hold or withstand varying rider weights. They are suitable for both heavy and light Harley Softail owners.

You can conveniently go with your luggage and even bring a passenger along with you while going on road tours or adventurers.

Although the price is on the high side. The overall improvement the A 1310-0959 offers when installed on your bike makes up for the heavy investment.

Pros

• Effortless installation process
• Supports all riding styles or preferences
• Resistant to stain and very durable

Cons

• An expensive design
• Height adjustment might be a bit tricky or complicated for inexperienced riders

Buying Considerations Best Shocks For Softail

Budget

The prices of suspension shocks vary from one brand, design, or model to another.

Some designs are categorized as premium or expensive, while others are tagged as affordable or pocket-friendly.

While the premium designs are generally equipped for exceptional overall performance, some inexpensive options offer closer outcomes.

Before you commence your search for the shocks for Softail to purchase, first, decide how much you are willing to invest in these components.

With a specific price target in mind, you can then tailor your search towards designs offered within your budget.

In the end, it becomes easier to choose a brand or model that meets your requirements and expectations.

Installation

When your shocks are correctly installed, untimely bottom out, and leaks are eliminated. Some shocks are a bit difficult to install, especially for inexperienced riders.

However, some designs can be installed quickly and straightforward. A design packed or equipped with an installation manual or instruction makes the job easier.

While the ease of installation has nothing to do with the effectiveness or overall performance of shocks, this feature is a plus.

Fitment

Another vital factor you need to consider during suspension shocks upgrade or replacement is the size and type of the design you desire to invest in.

Ensure your choice of suspension shocks is a perfect fit for your bike.

Investing in a wrong or incompatible design won’t only lead to a waste of money. The experience is also exhausting and time-wasting.

So, make sure you take your time during selection. Read the details and specifications carefully to ascertain you are picking up the appropriate shocks.

Performance

The best shocks for Softail are specially designed to guarantee smooth performance and experience while riding on rough terrains.

They are built to withstand vibrations and bounces that may occur due to bumps and potholes on the roads.

By investing in new suspension shocks, the main aim is to enhance or optimize your bike’s performance level— for improved stability, handling, and comfort.

Hence, your choice of design must support these goals.

Build quality

If you desire durable and long-lasting shocks for your Harley Softail, you need to consider the materials used to construct your choice of design.

Ensure you verify and ascertain that the build materials are solid and durable enough to withstand extreme conditions and elements.

Choose a design that is not affected by excessive temperatures and can withstand rough riding styles and terrains.

Shocks made from premium metal and steel are excellent choices.

Remember, the capital you wish to invest in suspension shocks is valuable. Ensure you treat it that way.

You certainly do not want to conduct a replacement or upgrade this minute and then be forced to replace it the next due to low-quality build material.

Compatibility with bike’s frame

Choose a design that fits your bike’s frame perfectly. Ensure you consider the eye-to-eye measurement and the stroke length of your choice of design.

These details will determine if the shocks are well-matched with the frame.

While attaching the shocks to your bike’s frame, ensure you use the correct bolts and bushings.

FAQ’s Best Shocks For Harley Softail

Which Suspension shocks brands are best for Harley Softail?

There are several exceptional brands of shocks on the market. Suppose you are looking for reliable and long-lasting options to choose from.

In that case, take a look at any of the models or designs discussed in this buying guide. Progressive Suspension is our top choice.

What are the crucial installation tips?

Before you install your new shocks on your Harley Softail, we advise you to go through the installation manual that comes with the package, if present.

The manual shows each step you need to follow for a successful installation. If the installation manual is absent and you haven’t done an upgrade or replacement before.

We recommend you consult a technician to fix it for you. While YouTube videos can guide you through the installation process. They are sometimes unreliable.

What tools or accessories do I need to install suspension shocks on my bike?

There are several tools that you can use for easy installation. In some cases, these accessories are mentioned in the installation manual/guide, in case your choice of design comes with one.

Some common tools include jack and stand, breaker, bar, nut splitter, wrench, and wheel chock.

What comes next after suspension shocks replacement/upgrade?

After you must have successfully installed the shocks on your bike, it is advised that you carefully inspect the suspension system as a whole.

During this time, check every component and part of the suspension to ensure they are still in good condition.

What does the phrase ‘Bottom out” means?

This phrase is popularly used to describe when the bottom of your motorcycle touches the ground or makes contact with the road.

This happens during a ride on rough roads (bumpy and filled with potholes). In a situation where your bike bottoms out, your bike is susceptible to damage, leading to the need for frequent repairs.

This issue can be corrected by replacing your stocks with a design that offers significant height or supports up to 2 inches of ride height adjustment.

Nevertheless, the existing shocks can be rebuilt by increasing/adjusting the height.

Conclusion

The best shocks for Softail improves your bike’s overall performance and are designed to last for a more extended period. Like every bike owner, the goal is to ride on a bike that guarantees smooth operation and withstands obstacles on rough terrains.

When you upgrade your shocks with any of the models or designs we have listed and discussed in this buying guide, they enhance the quality of your suspension.

These options make a big difference between bumpy rides by ensuring you enjoy a relaxing ride experience going forward.

When you put all the details in this guideline into consideration, you are guaranteed ultimate value on your investment.