Just wanted you to know that I watch your videos over and over again. So much great information and I've learned so much even being an experienced rider.
13" RWD RS-1 rear shocks are the best value in the after market for H-D suspension. You have so many bikes in the garage that you could almost try out every shock brand and tell us which ones you like the best!
Love your channel & vids!! No offense taken whatsoever. It’s your channel & your opinion. It’s all good. I’ll be honest, …doing air in BOTH F&R air ride is mostly for show. But I’ve had Dirty Air Rear only… NO electric center stand… AND I have their premium Aluminum shocks. Complete game changer! I’ve owned Ohlins, legends, ProAction coil overs and they’re all great shocks… but my bike has NEVER rode as good as with these aluminum shocks. Dirty Air is one of the best air ride systems out there, and with over 2 years installed, …no issues whatsoever. Completely adjustable and yes a gauge will show you exactly what air you desire for both solo & 2-up. My “Mrs” also loves this better than any system I’ve owned. I do keep spare airline, and extra Tee fittings in any event, but never needed them. Again …. I only run rear only, and yes there is a cool factor, but mainly it has been the best ride (with the aluminum shocks). They cheaper kits use steel “corvette air shocks” and were meant for cars. I have progressive monotubes in my forks and my bike rides amazing with my set up. Note: the center stand is not necessary when running air ride & my bike still sits fine with a little lean. -Again, great vids & valid points when running an air ride and also want to point out that if properly installed, it will be problem free for many many years.
Ran 12yrs with front and rear air ride, zero issues. Dirty air, plus I ran a shotgun system on another bike for 5yrs and again I had zero issues. Did I carry extra stuff? Yup, but that's nothing more than an extra few things in the to pouch. 10/10 will be on every bike.
Most kits have a valve so you can raise the bike with a tire pump. If you're on a run you should have one with you. Also, you can put safety blocks on so the bike doesn't drop all the way to the ground if you lose air while riding.
I agree with your thoughts on both air rides and Wilbur’s. A group of us rode to Sturgis and wouldn’t you know two of dudes had air ride issues. Stopped out in the middle of Nebraska, HOT AS sh#t, this bike had a bad pressure switch, the guys on this bike said he started having the issues after he nailed a large pot hole in Colorado, system wouldn’t hold air and the compressor would not shutoff, made to Sturgis, basically aired up the shocks and disconnected the pump to hold air. He found a replacement switch at Blackhills harley, air ride vendor had a switch that would work, changed it in the parking lot again working up a sweat, then he decided to by a second switch for his other RG which has the same system. On the way back after we hit a storm in Wyoming the guys air ride had issues, his switches are on the handle bars left side, the down position on the rocker switch failed, he was lucky as you Mentioned Mr Monkey, it wasn’t the up side or he wouldn’t have been able to raise his bike, the work around to get the ride height correct was to air it up, then bleed the air using the bleed out switch that’s part of the system, some safety thing?., after watching your clip on Wilburs as well as another u tube channel that also covered the Wilbur’s suspension, I installed the same system on my 19 RGS, day and night, glad I didn’t go with air, did both front and back handles great as well.
I love air ride on the rear shocks only. 6 years+ trouble free. Fully adjustable for different passengers and will ride on the stops. Contrary to what folks believe, if installed correctly and you lose a line, they both go down and will not throw you in a curve or not. Experienced that one time and it was from poor installation at a shop. If you are smart you will have basic tools on your bike so keep a few spare parts too. It's center stands I despise. Center stands belong on mopeds.
You're a funny guy and this is a great video 🤣👍👍👍👍👍 I've been pondering over the ideal of getting air suspension And you're answering all the questions in my head 🤝
Man you nailed the pro and cons of air suspension’s spot on. And I would say that the cons win that battle. That’s a whole lot of cash for a whole lot headaches down the road .
I currently have JNR air ride on my bike. I will replace the JNR shocks only for Arnott shocks and keep the rest of system. We could have experienced the same challenges. I won't steal your thunder. I'm looking forward to video.
I'm so thankful you made this video. I've been surching for dirty air review videos and no one talked about the shocks lol. I have a 2008 ultra classic that has the stock air shocks and wanted to get dirty air or any type of air shock because I didn't want to loose the function of my air gauge on my fairing but after all the things you brought up about air shocks I'm gonna go with spring shocks.
Brother, what a great piece. Never wanted the air ride, as a buddy who has it on his RGS says exactly what you said, no need, it’s a show off item….stick with Legends RevoA on the back, hidden by your bags where you or anyone else aren’t messing around with the settings, do their canisters on the front, if you want to upgrade, enjoy a great ride, and use the kickstand it came with. This reconfirmed why I don’t need to sit my bike on its frame to look cool. If it doesn’t go back up, you’re screwed. If your center stand fails at some point, doesn’t go all the way up, or from a lifted position it drops, you potentially have a very serious problem at speed. Appreciate this content.
Man thank you so much for this information. I have one guy that works on my road king special at moonshine Harley. My Tech said don't do it and basically said all of what the hell you said💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾🙏🏽
It's funny you're making this video, just the other day I had seen a fb post about a gentleman with airide "I won't say what brand" that one of the airbags busted and left him stranded. He had to stay in a motel until the part came in to replace it.
yeah except air ride is used in tractor trailers and has been the standard for nigh on 40 years and existed before that , air brakes too ! plenty reliable with quality components
I installed Legend Air on my 2018 Ultra Limited, about a year ago. I agree, this is not what I thought it would be as well. Im going back to Ohlins for the rear and I will be upgrading the front soon too!
You're 100% correct. Air ride is for your showy bike. Your rider bike should have a more conventional suspension. Most of us have multiple bikes for multiple purposes. My Street Glide build with air ride is intended to be a bike night / audio competition bike with a big sound system, pretty paint, 23" fat tire etc. I have an Ultra Limited with 60k miles that I'm doing my damndest to get to 100k for serious riding.
Good insight on cheap air ride. Got a buddy with dirty air. The compressor failed twice in 2 years. I have legends air ride with adjustable rebound. Took a minute to get used to but I like it. PSI gauge is ur best friend. I’ve had the air ride for bout 5 years no problems.
You can install a micro switch under the bike and run a small LED into one of the switch locations on the dash that will light up when the stand is down. It is a pretty simple install.
I’ve viewed several of your videos and find them very informative. I’ve got a 2016 Ultra Limited with the stock air ride HD shocks on the rear and they suck. Was looking at getting either Legends or Dirty Air set-ups. You just made up my mind for me. Thanks once again and keep the rubber down and the shiny side up.
You know you say the things that so many people think and I have to say thank you brother. With the reach that you have in this platform you give it the justification that needs to be said. Regardless of those that get butt hurt, when you voice your opinion, they are yours you give all those so much more with your content. Keep doing what you are doing and ride on brother. Bless you brother and all the best to you.
Very informative dude, Good stuff to consider here. I have wanted to do legends for a long time but there was a period of time where I was thinking air ride would be dope mostly because it its cool and bikes look good parked vertical rather than on the kick stand but I really just want a nice comfy ride more than anything and I feel like almost anything out there has to be better than stock suspension right? I think so lol.
I definitely agree The up and down with my 30-in rims for my old Street glide isn't worth what I done to my 2020 road glide with the DC suspension to where I can just drop it down low and still look good on my stretch bag and my finger kickstand My dirty hair definitely wasn't worth it
"My Garage is a wreck." Yeah, it would take a couple of hours for my garage to be cleaned up to that level of 'wreck.' Great job on your reviews. It's great to get an unbiased opinion on this stuff. As a new rider (about 6 months), this stuff really helps when I am looking at upgrades to my 2022 RKS. I know jack about jack. :) I ride 50 to 70 miles a day and comfort upgrades are something I am always on the look out for. Thank you.
I'm telling you that the dirty air digital gauge will get you exact once you get the pressure to weight correct. and its a very nice rid. it can be stiffened up or softened up. not as much travel adjustment as a legend. As far as the center stand goes, i installed 2 hidden micro switches and a red and green led lights in the inner fairing that lets me know if it all the way up or all the way down.
I actually saw a shop that made a special stopper so that if the air ride failed you could get a buddy to help lift your bike as much as you can and this lever would drop into these slots and it would hold your bike up off the stand so you can get home even if you have no air in the air ride system.. it was actually a really smart idea, granted its not the easiest to just lift up a bike but it didnt need lifted much and it locked in and it had a couple spots where if you did lift it high enough it would lock in the higher position 😊 genius idea for those using air ride for an emergency " get ya home" back up idea
You right about the air ride. My 13 Road Glide had it on the bike when I bought it and I hated it. It never rode the same way every time you got on it. You could not get it set back at the same place every time you rode the bike. I had the rear lose pressure on me went in a corner. Frame dragged and stood the bike up on me almost put me in a ditch before I got the bike back under control. Take that Stuff off before it gets you down. Switched to Legend front and rear suspension. Bike handles great now. You would truly love redoing suspension all the way around. You can not tell some one how much better the bike rides and handles to fully describe the difference. I have already bought the rears for my new bike but have not had time to put it on yet and will be doing the front asap also. Ride safe Brother.
I agree with you 100% on the air ride. I looked at that system and just thought no way! I also have it on my '38 Chevy and the ride is just not as good as a coil over with oil damping system. What would happen if you were two up in a corner on the Interstate and an air line or seal blew out and the suspension dropped out? I don't want to even think about it!
I completely agree. I bought a bike with this system on it already. I can't get a comfortable ride. It looks cool parked, but that is it. Looking at doing a full legends suspension on it.
You nailed buddy of mine on our ride to Myrtle Beach had a solenoid issue. The compressor kicked on during the night his bike tipped over when the suspension went to the top. Put Legends on mine super ride now.
On a completely different topic have you tried the Timney Trigger for the G-Lock? Every other trigger is some copy of the G-Locks oem but the Timney is a whole new design that dosnt even resemble the oem one. I've been running one for quite a while and will never go back!
I almost bought that system and my mechanic who I trust steered me to Legend coils. I LOVE them and never worry about checking pressure anymore..they are set and I just give them a quick twist if I ever want to adjust them.
Semi trucks all have dependable full air ride, but they use leveling valves to set the ride height. Aftermarket car systems incorporate electronic leveling sensors. Either could be fitted to a M/C. Pretty sure those air shocks on the blue bike are Monroe or Gabriel air shocks for the rear of a 70's Vette, not specifically engineered for a M/C. They are crude compared to the Legends air shocks.. Room for improvement there!
Having a center stand is cool but all that hassle to get it isn’t worth it to me. I’d rather go with a traditional aftermarket upgrade. Great video for folks considering these options.
I'm using Legend Air Ride on my 2018 Breakout. I was instructed to air it up until I have 1" of sag. That's whether I'm riding solo or with a passenger and/or luggage. The 1"of sag is perfect! I absolutely love it! Rode it from L.A. to Seattle right after I got the air ride and I couldn't feel any bumps in the road. Like the rear tire was floating on a cloud. However, the air ride did fail once and that sucked. I can still ride the Breakout down on the bump stops. But I scrape the exhaust when turning if there's no air in the system. Not to mention jarring my back over everuly bump in the road! Got it fixed now though. Took 6 weeks to get a new compressor. (Covid supply chain issues?!?)
Had a thought for emergency situations, carry extra braided lines of varying length to be able to by pass the system and zip tie to the side in case of leak, or if failed compressor disconnect line and carry a small electric compressor that plugs into lighter and by pass the compressor at least to get home, shop, or trailer.
Thanks man! I was thinking of the Wilbur’s nevomed or whatever its called or an air suspension like Legend. I am out for the year getting a 3 level lumbar fusion so I need to make my road glide a smooth soft geezer glide now. I am too young for this shit, but I also don’t want the backaches. The surgery will take care of the leg weakness and numbness, the back aches requires a better suspension! Looks like Wilbur will be on my bike next long ride. I am still going to ride up until surgery, just short rides, too much pain for a long one. I am stubborn that way. Just pissed because I had a trip to Panama City with the Road glide and was going to come back through Tn and ride the Tail of the Dragon. That will have to wait until I have the leg strength and back strength to do it. Thanks again
Appreciate your honest thoughts and what if scenarios, was thinking about going air for the cool factor, but I think that I’ll focus more on the ride…..well time to go back to work on my research to find some good aftermarket budget friendly shocks
Thanks Monk, I was thinking about air ride for the ability to lower to mount and unmount my Limited. Your videos are so informative,. I respect and listen to your opinions and go from there. I wish you would have linked the company from Europe that you have on the 131, but google probably has it. Great vid, keep em coming. You and the Mrs. have a fantastic weekend, be safe and God Bless!
One more thing to add to this great video, air suspension can make you drift your motorcycle, and it's almost impossible to line it up, since you have no clue the air level needed to keep all the structure line up.
My luck, I would be at freeway speed in a turn when it decided to let go and drop my frame on the ground... I'll stick with the stock suspension, thanks.
Personally I agree with your points, it’s a lot of hassle for not a lot of payoff. I actually prefer the look of a bike leaning on its jiffy stand. That’s just me.
Thanks, I’ve been looking to do full air ride on my 2017 ultra, your opinion is correct, I can hear the dude not mentioning his name Dirty Bird saying different but I’m 100% correct never ever thought of those just thought cool sound low rider feeling. I’m checking Wilbur suspension, I ve thought of them. Thanks makes sense. Papaaaa Gracias 🙏👍🏼🇵🇷🥊
Great topic and info,That blue would look good with all chrome,don’t get me wrong it looks good but all that black idk,the kit from advan is sweet can’t believe u didn’t have bike painted wow awesome channel monk
Woohoo got the first like. I'm curious about what you are going to do with this. The bike definitely looks great in blue. Have you thought about having blue anodised or powder coated crash bars when you change them ?
Lol. You are 100% correct. Only Legend and Arnott have an actual mono tube shock inside that has rebound adjustment. That's why I switched. 1. Comfort adjustment 2. ride height adj. 3. Better performance doing wheelie
Yep I was wondering if anyone was gonna hit on that, my buddies were putting those on their lowered trucks back in highschool when they put bags on them. They also have other ride hight sensors and fully digital units, I had arnotts on the rear of my v-rod for like 4 yrs with only minor issues ever... Now I ride a 2020 SGS and it's become my daily rider these last few months...
Your 100% correct. I had the Street Glide version of that bike. The Bad Dad stretched bags. Dirty Air, hell you have seen it when I emailed you a pic. Anyway I HATED the way it rode when it was done. And it failed several times. I had to carry valves, lines, and tools at ALL times because I did in a bad spot when it would not air down. Anyway we’ll put. 100% agree.
On point bro Thanks for your input, really made me think twice about purchasing mine knowing what I just learned. It’s a eye opener for sure because we never think about the consequences but only the cool 😎 features. Thanks for sharing bro 🍻👍🏽
I was talking to a guy at a bike show last week who paid over $50k for a customized BIG wheel bagger with the ski jump rear fender and bags and air ride. I said I'd be scared I'd be 200 miles from home and have a failure. He said he's only put 400 miles on that bike since he bought it. There's the difference.
Well I guess you could have suspension sensors 1 in the front and 1 in the rear and allow the system to figure out what’s level just like some of the cars
I agree with you on all of it. I bought a bagger three months ago and It has a full air ride suspension plus a 26 inch front wheel. The ride on it is not so great. I was on the highway doing 65 and it was pretty bouncy. I pretty much feel like I can’t take that bike over 65 miles an hour and I am pretty sure I won’t be taking it on any long runs. Luckily, I have a 2009 Roadking as well. I’m probably going to sell this bike in the next six months. It definitely does not ride even close to stock suspension. I’m not even talking about upgraded suspension. Just stock suspension. Not worth it ‼️ another hard lesson learned, and a very expensive lesson as well
If your honest, as you are, you're bound to piss someone off at some point. I'm a "tell me the truth no matter how bad it hurts" kinda Feller, and I appreciate your straight up outlook bro. Also I agree, Wilbers is one of the best suspensions on the market, you get what you pay for, SOMETIMES 😉....
Good video, my wife rides a Deluxe from 2015 that floats down the road, great feeling. My 2021 Road King Special not so much, still on the fence about what brand rear shocks i need. Here in The Netherlands i have the following options: Wilbers (don’t need te Nivomat because i haul nothing and only ride solo), Öhlins and Progressive Suspenension. I only want the “floaty” ride, not sporty, almost no reviews about that. If you have a good tip, don’t be shy to share! Keep up the good video’s!
Arnott air system is on an entirely different level. I had Dirty Air and it was ok but not for putting on the miles. No rebound adjustment is probably the issue. Also dirty air system does not use a manifold for the air lines. A lot of T connectors. I now have the Arnott system and it has rebound adjustment and manifold. Plus the shocks are unbelievably beefy and manufactured by company well known in the auto industry. 30 day no questions asked refund. Love it.
How do you have the Wilber’s set? 3/4 or 1 inch? I am not overly impressed with them. Set them to 3/4 felt everything. Tuned anothe half turn Lilttle better but still not the best. Love the self adjusting but riding I think the legends were better unless I am missing something. Let me know thanks
I never touched mine. Before they sent them to me they asked me a lot of questions over the phone and they came pretuned for my bike, my weight, how much I carry with me, etc. in the box. How did you get yours? Maybe call them and ask their advice? They are very approachable.
@@ProfessionalMonkey they had them supposedly set for me but still could feel everything. Have called them before gonna call again. I don’t measure by mm I measure by inch.
One of the reasons i went progressive suspension on my Vstar 1100. Tons of write ups on how to diy air ride out of a corvette shock, etc. Also full bolt on kits for it, but i wanted comfort, it was already lowered with adjustable dogbones and it was too low, its now a 1/2 lowered with a progressive 465 shock. Set the preload when the Mrs wants to ride and its good. Until i got my Electraglide. That thing is a caddy, even though its 35 years old. I also consider myself a pretty competent mechanic, so the DIY wasnt an issue, actually spent more on the progressive shock to get the comfort.
It's the same with everything you buy tho. I know people that's had dirty air for years and never had an issue. But it was installed with care and thought. It makes a big difference on where you run the lines and stuff right. If it doesn't air up 99% of the time it's a fuse or relay. You can always run direct power to the pressure switch to air it up. I build trucks on air ride and the bike is the same just less work. It's very reliable if done right. But like I said everything breaks, nothing is perfect. Your motor could blow up at anytime and leave you stranded.
You hit the nail on the head. That Dirty Air suspension sucks. I have a riding buddy that let a local shop talk him into putting it on his Street Glide. When I put a full Legend suspension on my bike he questioned why I wasn’t going with the Dirty Air. I told him bc I like to ride and I want suspension to work. He’s had nothing but problems with it. Sure does look cool when you pull up to the bar though.
Love the rant! Not a fan of the air ride myself. My buddy has a/r and always griping about the bumps and his headlight is aimed at the moon. YES we already crainked in the headlamp screw... It needs another 1/4" of threads to even get close! That bike sucks to ride at nite!
Lol love the FL bugs. My 07 Heritage also rides like an old Lincoln. It has stock suspension and solo seat and its cushion soft (parents use to have Presidential edition town car)
The more you ride and adjust it you can make it ride like your on a cloud ! i just got back from a 4000 mile ride on my 2019 RG I love it. if you look down the inside of your right leg you can see the center stand and know that its up or down. THANKS PRO MONKEY FROM OKLAHOMA
In Oregon or cold states like that air ride suspensions (motorcycle or vehicles etc) the moisture in the lines can freeze and leave your bike stuck in the potion you last left it in.
Ok, I have raised my center stand and apparently I didn’t raise it all the way. This is because my bike was running and I couldn’t hear if it “top out” or was all the way up, however it was not and I drove up in the drive way and caught the stand on the approach. “I thought I shouldn’t have bottomed out there” so I pull the bike in the garage and dropped the stand & let out the air. The bike sat normal and I thought nothing of it. I was cleaning it and noticed the leg was not flat on the ground, it was on the “let’s say” the tipsy toe like a ballerina. Kind of like I did not lower the stand all the way so I aired it up and lowered the stand this time without the bike running, so I knew it was all the way down. I looked and same thing so I laid on the floor to see what the 🤬 was going on. Since I pulled in on a turn it only caught on side of the stand and it bent it up an inch. To fix it I had to have a buddy sit on the bike and the only way I could fix it was either take it off and deal with it or just have him sit on it and hit it back in place with a hammer. Trust me I tried everything else, It was not really the ideal way to fix it but I didn’t want to take it off and remount it. I have not had that issue since but it could have turned out much worse than just bending one leg. So I agree it is something you need to constantly think of. Should come up with a indicator of some sort if one doesn’t already exist.
What's your longterm plan for that bike? The reason I ask is that you have so many in that small garage, and that bike is probably not one of your favorites. I have one motorcycle, a 2016 Road Glide Special. I'd like to be nostalgic and get a Softail Standard like I used to have similar to you getting that Cross Bones. However, I find my self spending a lot of money on the Road Glide (to improve it) and at the end of the day, I can't justfiy a second motorcyle. How do you justify to your self that another motorcycle is a good idea?
Great vid Monk... and if you really wanna get to the nuts and bolts... Factory harley rear suspension is a poor man's version of what you have, my 08 Electra Glide has it and is F'n sucks balls, it works ok but it bottoms out, it leaks and when 2 up doesn't matter how much air is in it, eventually it leaks off and bottoms out, I will be putting Legend Revo A's on mine as Wilbers are just too expensive, and I agree on the safety issues with air ride every connection is a failure point.. period.. till next time. Cheers from the Great White North 🇨🇦
Thank you, I was gonna do an air ride and center stand. And I was thinking the same thing failure points all over, nice for a bike show. So I bought a manual center stand and lowered the shocks I ride to much to put up with the problems an air ride can be.
I prefer how my Road King looks resting on its sidestand...don't like the "new" custom bagger look at all. But if you have nothing else to spend your money on (I do), be my guest! To each his own.
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Just wanted you to know that I watch your videos over and over again. So much great information and I've learned so much even being an experienced rider.
Awesome, thank you!
13" RWD RS-1 rear shocks are the best value in the after market for H-D suspension. You have so many bikes in the garage that you could almost try out every shock brand and tell us which ones you like the best!
Absolutely! RWD RS-1 are awesome!
Have them on my 08 electra glide and love them!!
Going to have to look into these. Thanks for the suggestion guys.
Have them on my 17 ultra, a buddy has them on there 20 SG and 22 RG and another on his 19SG. Great shocks, great company to deal with.
Ive had RS1s on both my 17 SGS and 21 RGS. IThey are amazing.... and ive been an Ohlins guy for years prior
They have ride height repeaters so you just flip a switch to get a consistent point each time you ride it. Food for thought
Good information to know man! Been shopping suspension and I’m glad I ran across this. Thx
Love your channel & vids!!
No offense taken whatsoever. It’s your channel & your opinion. It’s all good.
I’ll be honest, …doing air in BOTH F&R air ride is mostly for show. But I’ve had Dirty Air Rear only… NO electric center stand… AND I have their premium Aluminum shocks.
Complete game changer!
I’ve owned Ohlins, legends, ProAction coil overs and they’re all great shocks… but my bike has NEVER rode as good as with these aluminum shocks.
Dirty Air is one of the best air ride systems out there, and with over 2 years installed, …no issues whatsoever.
Completely adjustable and yes a gauge will show you exactly what air you desire for both solo & 2-up.
My “Mrs” also loves this better than any system I’ve owned.
I do keep spare airline, and extra Tee fittings in any event, but never needed them.
Again …. I only run rear only, and yes there is a cool factor, but mainly it has been the best ride (with the aluminum shocks).
They cheaper kits use steel “corvette air shocks” and were meant for cars.
I have progressive monotubes in my forks and my bike rides amazing with my set up.
Note: the center stand is not necessary when running air ride & my bike still sits fine with a little lean.
-Again, great vids & valid points when running an air ride and also want to point out that if properly installed, it will be problem free for many many years.
Ran 12yrs with front and rear air ride, zero issues. Dirty air, plus I ran a shotgun system on another bike for 5yrs and again I had zero issues. Did I carry extra stuff? Yup, but that's nothing more than an extra few things in the to pouch. 10/10 will be on every bike.
Most kits have a valve so you can raise the bike with a tire pump. If you're on a run you should have one with you. Also, you can put safety blocks on so the bike doesn't drop all the way to the ground if you lose air while riding.
researching Wilbers suspension is how i found your channel. Spendy, but they are sooo nice.
They are!
I bought Willburs after watching your video. I LOVE THEM!! Best purchase I have made. Thanks keep up the good work.
I agree with your thoughts on both air rides and Wilbur’s. A group of us rode to Sturgis and wouldn’t you know two of dudes had air ride issues. Stopped out in the middle of Nebraska, HOT AS sh#t, this bike had a bad pressure switch, the guys on this bike said he started having the issues after he nailed a large pot hole in Colorado, system wouldn’t hold air and the compressor would not shutoff, made to Sturgis, basically aired up the shocks and disconnected the pump to hold air. He found a replacement switch at Blackhills harley, air ride vendor had a switch that would work, changed it in the parking lot again working up a sweat, then he decided to by a second switch for his other RG which has the same system. On the way back after we hit a storm in Wyoming the guys air ride had issues, his switches are on the handle bars left side, the down position on the rocker switch failed, he was lucky as you Mentioned Mr Monkey, it wasn’t the up side or he wouldn’t have been able to raise his bike, the work around to get the ride height correct was to air it up, then bleed the air using the bleed out switch that’s part of the system, some safety thing?., after watching your clip on Wilburs as well as another u tube channel that also covered the Wilbur’s suspension, I installed the same system on my 19 RGS, day and night, glad I didn’t go with air, did both front and back handles great as well.
I love air ride on the rear shocks only. 6 years+ trouble free. Fully adjustable for different passengers and will ride on the stops. Contrary to what folks believe, if installed correctly and you lose a line, they both go down and will not throw you in a curve or not. Experienced that one time and it was from poor installation at a shop. If you are smart you will have basic tools on your bike so keep a few spare parts too.
It's center stands I despise. Center stands belong on mopeds.
You're a funny guy and this is a great video
🤣👍👍👍👍👍
I've been pondering over the ideal of getting air suspension
And you're answering all the questions in my head 🤝
Man you nailed the pro and cons of air suspension’s spot on. And I would say that the cons win that battle. That’s a whole lot of cash for a whole lot headaches down the road .
I currently have JNR air ride on my bike. I will replace the JNR shocks only for Arnott shocks and keep the rest of system.
We could have experienced the same challenges. I won't steal your thunder.
I'm looking forward to video.
I'm so thankful you made this video. I've been surching for dirty air review videos and no one talked about the shocks lol. I have a 2008 ultra classic that has the stock air shocks and wanted to get dirty air or any type of air shock because I didn't want to loose the function of my air gauge on my fairing but after all the things you brought up about air shocks I'm gonna go with spring shocks.
Glad I could help!
Brother, what a great piece. Never wanted the air ride, as a buddy who has it on his RGS says exactly what you said, no need, it’s a show off item….stick with Legends RevoA on the back, hidden by your bags where you or anyone else aren’t messing around with the settings, do their canisters on the front, if you want to upgrade, enjoy a great ride, and use the kickstand it came with. This reconfirmed why I don’t need to sit my bike on its frame to look cool. If it doesn’t go back up, you’re screwed. If your center stand fails at some point, doesn’t go all the way up, or from a lifted position it drops, you potentially have a very serious problem at speed. Appreciate this content.
Man thank you so much for this information. I have one guy that works on my road king special at moonshine Harley. My Tech said don't do it and basically said all of what the hell you said💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾🙏🏽
I just did the jnr design. For reliability I put 2 compressors 1 on each side. No need for tank. That way if one fails still have one to get home.
It's funny you're making this video, just the other day I had seen a fb post about a gentleman with airide "I won't say what brand" that one of the airbags busted and left him stranded. He had to stay in a motel until the part came in to replace it.
Love your channel sir !! You make great content !!!! 🤟🤟 I like the bars on that blue bike man !!!!!!
"It's never going to be right"
SQUIRREL!!!
"What is it with these bugs"
🤣🤣🤣
I remember the old saying, chrome don't get you home. I know this is air but same shit applies.
yeah except air ride is used in tractor trailers and has been the standard for nigh on 40 years and existed before that , air brakes too ! plenty reliable with quality components
I installed Legend Air on my 2018 Ultra Limited, about a year ago. I agree, this is not what I thought it would be as well. Im going back to Ohlins for the rear and I will be upgrading the front soon too!
You're 100% correct. Air ride is for your showy bike. Your rider bike should have a more conventional suspension. Most of us have multiple bikes for multiple purposes. My Street Glide build with air ride is intended to be a bike night / audio competition bike with a big sound system, pretty paint, 23" fat tire etc. I have an Ultra Limited with 60k miles that I'm doing my damndest to get to 100k for serious riding.
Good insight on cheap air ride. Got a buddy with dirty air. The compressor failed twice in 2 years. I have legends air ride with adjustable rebound. Took a minute to get used to but I like it. PSI gauge is ur best friend. I’ve had the air ride for bout 5 years no problems.
Gotta go legends, love my air. Different strokes
I like the thought of air I can adjust because I’m vertically cha Lange don’t.
You can install a micro switch under the bike and run a small LED into one of the switch locations on the dash that will light up when the stand is down. It is a pretty simple install.
I’ve viewed several of your videos and find them very informative. I’ve got a 2016 Ultra Limited with the stock air ride HD shocks on the rear and they suck. Was looking at getting either Legends or Dirty Air set-ups. You just made up my mind for me. Thanks once again and keep the rubber down and the shiny side up.
👍👍
You know you say the things that so many people think and I have to say thank you brother. With the reach that you have in this platform you give it the justification that needs to be said. Regardless of those that get butt hurt, when you voice your opinion, they are yours you give all those so much more with your content. Keep doing what you are doing and ride on brother. Bless you brother and all the best to you.
Very informative dude, Good stuff to consider here. I have wanted to do legends for a long time but there was a period of time where I was thinking air ride would be dope mostly because it its cool and bikes look good parked vertical rather than on the kick stand but I really just want a nice comfy ride more than anything and I feel like almost anything out there has to be better than stock suspension right? I think so lol.
I definitely agree The up and down with my 30-in rims for my old Street glide isn't worth what I done to my 2020 road glide with the DC suspension to where I can just drop it down low and still look good on my stretch bag and my finger kickstand My dirty hair definitely wasn't worth it
"My Garage is a wreck." Yeah, it would take a couple of hours for my garage to be cleaned up to that level of 'wreck.' Great job on your reviews. It's great to get an unbiased opinion on this stuff. As a new rider (about 6 months), this stuff really helps when I am looking at upgrades to my 2022 RKS. I know jack about jack. :) I ride 50 to 70 miles a day and comfort upgrades are something I am always on the look out for. Thank you.
I'm telling you that the dirty air digital gauge will get you exact once you get the pressure to weight correct. and its a very nice rid. it can be stiffened up or softened up. not as much travel adjustment as a legend.
As far as the center stand goes, i installed 2 hidden micro switches and a red and green led lights in the inner fairing that lets me know if it all the way up or all the way down.
I’d like to know how ya did that
I actually saw a shop that made a special stopper so that if the air ride failed you could get a buddy to help lift your bike as much as you can and this lever would drop into these slots and it would hold your bike up off the stand so you can get home even if you have no air in the air ride system.. it was actually a really smart idea, granted its not the easiest to just lift up a bike but it didnt need lifted much and it locked in and it had a couple spots where if you did lift it high enough it would lock in the higher position 😊 genius idea for those using air ride for an emergency " get ya home" back up idea
You right about the air ride. My 13 Road Glide had it on the bike when I bought it and I hated it. It never rode the same way every time you got on it. You could not get it set back at the same place every time you rode the bike. I had the rear lose pressure on me went in a corner. Frame dragged and stood the bike up on me almost put me in a ditch before I got the bike back under control. Take that Stuff off before it gets you down. Switched to Legend front and rear suspension. Bike handles great now. You would truly love redoing suspension all the way around. You can not tell some one how much better the bike rides and handles to fully describe the difference. I have already bought the rears for my new bike but have not had time to put it on yet and will be doing the front asap also. Ride safe Brother.
I agree with you 100% on the air ride. I looked at that system and just thought no way! I also have it on my '38 Chevy and the ride is just not as good as a coil over with oil damping system. What would happen if you were two up in a corner on the Interstate and an air line or seal blew out and the suspension dropped out? I don't want to even think about it!
I completely agree. I bought a bike with this system on it already. I can't get a comfortable ride. It looks cool parked, but that is it. Looking at doing a full legends suspension on it.
You nailed buddy of mine on our ride to Myrtle Beach had a solenoid issue. The compressor kicked on during the night his bike tipped over when the suspension went to the top. Put Legends on mine super ride now.
On a completely different topic have you tried the Timney Trigger for the G-Lock? Every other trigger is some copy of the G-Locks oem but the Timney is a whole new design that dosnt even resemble the oem one. I've been running one for quite a while and will never go back!
I almost bought that system and my mechanic who I trust steered me to Legend coils. I LOVE them and never worry about checking pressure anymore..they are set and I just give them a quick twist if I ever want to adjust them.
Don't know if anyone has said this but there is always moisture in a air system. Unless there is a a dryer on it.
The blue looks great. And I'm with you no air shocks for me. I'll stick with Olin or Fox.
Semi trucks all have dependable full air ride, but they use leveling valves to set the ride height. Aftermarket car systems incorporate electronic leveling sensors. Either could be fitted to a M/C.
Pretty sure those air shocks on the blue bike are Monroe or Gabriel air shocks for the rear of a 70's Vette, not specifically engineered for a M/C. They are crude compared to the Legends air shocks..
Room for improvement there!
Your right mine rides like shit with air suspension, I need short shocks that ride well
Having a center stand is cool but all that hassle to get it isn’t worth it to me. I’d rather go with a traditional aftermarket upgrade. Great video for folks considering these options.
The only aftermarket shock that works for my short legged ass is the 10.5" Burly Slammers, I'm told they're not a smooth ride at all, what say you ?
Had exotic customs air ride on my 2017 Road Glide and loved it.
I'm using Legend Air Ride on my 2018 Breakout. I was instructed to air it up until I have 1" of sag.
That's whether I'm riding solo or with a passenger and/or luggage. The 1"of sag is perfect! I absolutely love it! Rode it from L.A. to Seattle right after I got the air ride and I couldn't feel any bumps in the road. Like the rear tire was floating on a cloud.
However, the air ride did fail once and that sucked. I can still ride the Breakout down on the bump stops. But I scrape the exhaust when turning if there's no air in the system. Not to mention jarring my back over everuly bump in the road! Got it fixed now though. Took 6 weeks to get a new compressor. (Covid supply chain issues?!?)
Had a thought for emergency situations, carry extra braided lines of varying length to be able to by pass the system and zip tie to the side in case of leak, or if failed compressor disconnect line and carry a small electric compressor that plugs into lighter and by pass the compressor at least to get home, shop, or trailer.
Good point...
Thanks man! I was thinking of the Wilbur’s nevomed or whatever its called or an air suspension like Legend. I am out for the year getting a 3 level lumbar fusion so I need to make my road glide a smooth soft geezer glide now. I am too young for this shit, but I also don’t want the backaches. The surgery will take care of the leg weakness and numbness, the back aches requires a better suspension! Looks like Wilbur will be on my bike next long ride. I am still going to ride up until surgery, just short rides, too much pain for a long one. I am stubborn that way. Just pissed because I had a trip to Panama City with the Road glide and was going to come back through Tn and ride the Tail of the Dragon. That will have to wait until I have the leg strength and back strength to do it. Thanks again
Check out the iRide suspension. Pretty bad ass! Simple and really gives a great ride!
Appreciate your honest thoughts and what if scenarios, was thinking about going air for the cool factor, but I think that I’ll focus more on the ride…..well time to go back to work on my research to find some good aftermarket budget friendly shocks
You already convinced me on the wilbers
You nailed this! I have factory air but will be looking to go with an aftermarket min air unit!
Thanks Monk, I was thinking about air ride for the ability to lower to mount and unmount my Limited. Your videos are so informative,. I respect and listen to your opinions and go from there. I wish you would have linked the company from Europe that you have on the 131, but google probably has it. Great vid, keep em coming. You and the Mrs. have a fantastic weekend, be safe and God Bless!
One more thing to add to this great video, air suspension can make you drift your motorcycle, and it's almost impossible to line it up, since you have no clue the air level needed to keep all the structure line up.
Thanks for the info. I was on the fence about it but now I’ll just keep what I have. Thanks again..
My luck, I would be at freeway speed in a turn when it decided to let go and drop my frame on the ground... I'll stick with the stock suspension, thanks.
Personally I agree with your points, it’s a lot of hassle for not a lot of payoff. I actually prefer the look of a bike leaning on its jiffy stand. That’s just me.
Thanks, I’ve been looking to do full air ride on my 2017 ultra, your opinion is correct, I can hear the dude not mentioning his name Dirty Bird saying different but I’m 100% correct never ever thought of those just thought cool sound low rider feeling. I’m checking Wilbur suspension, I ve thought of them. Thanks makes sense. Papaaaa Gracias 🙏👍🏼🇵🇷🥊
Great topic and info,That blue would look good with all chrome,don’t get me wrong it looks good but all that black idk,the kit from advan is sweet can’t believe u didn’t have bike painted wow awesome channel monk
Monk - Always great content. Love the topics and free wheeling commentary from both you and the Mrs.!
Woohoo got the first like.
I'm curious about what you are going to do with this. The bike definitely looks great in blue. Have you thought about having blue anodised or powder coated crash bars when you change them ?
Lol. You are 100% correct. Only Legend and Arnott have an actual mono tube shock inside that has rebound adjustment. That's why I switched. 1. Comfort adjustment 2. ride height adj.
3. Better performance doing wheelie
Micro switches will solve your center stand issue. Air ride tractor trailers have systems to keep them at the same ride height no matter the load.
Yep I was wondering if anyone was gonna hit on that, my buddies were putting those on their lowered trucks back in highschool when they put bags on them. They also have other ride hight sensors and fully digital units, I had arnotts on the rear of my v-rod for like 4 yrs with only minor issues ever... Now I ride a 2020 SGS and it's become my daily rider these last few months...
@Harley-Davidson could @ProfessionalMonkey please get a set of the Screaming Eagle Ohlins to show install and ride quality of the new system.
Your 100% correct. I had the Street Glide version of that bike. The Bad Dad stretched bags. Dirty Air, hell you have seen it when I emailed you a pic. Anyway I HATED the way it rode when it was done. And it failed several times. I had to carry valves, lines, and tools at ALL times because I did in a bad spot when it would not air down. Anyway we’ll put. 100% agree.
On point bro
Thanks for your input, really made me think twice about purchasing mine knowing what I just learned.
It’s a eye opener for sure because we never think about the consequences but only the cool 😎 features. Thanks for sharing bro 🍻👍🏽
Good informative video! Thank you for the heads up. I won't be spending money on air shocks!
I was talking to a guy at a bike show last week who paid over $50k for a customized BIG wheel bagger with the ski jump rear fender and bags and air ride. I said I'd be scared I'd be 200 miles from home and have a failure. He said he's only put 400 miles on that bike since he bought it. There's the difference.
At Gettysburg Bike Week this year, there was an installer doing the Dirty rear for 1200.
Well I guess you could have suspension sensors 1 in the front and 1 in the rear and allow the system to figure out what’s level just like some of the cars
I agree with you on all of it. I bought a bagger three months ago and It has a full air ride suspension plus a 26 inch front wheel. The ride on it is not so great. I was on the highway doing 65 and it was pretty bouncy. I pretty much feel like I can’t take that bike over 65 miles an hour and I am pretty sure I won’t be taking it on any long runs. Luckily, I have a 2009 Roadking as well. I’m probably going to sell this bike in the next six months. It definitely does not ride even close to stock suspension. I’m not even talking about upgraded suspension. Just stock suspension. Not worth it ‼️ another hard lesson learned, and a very expensive lesson as well
Sorry that happened to you. Maybe worth converting it back?
If your honest, as you are, you're bound to piss someone off at some point. I'm a "tell me the truth no matter how bad it hurts" kinda Feller, and I appreciate your straight up outlook bro. Also I agree, Wilbers is one of the best suspensions on the market, you get what you pay for, SOMETIMES 😉....
Good video, my wife rides a Deluxe from 2015 that floats down the road, great feeling. My 2021 Road King Special not so much, still on the fence about what brand rear shocks i need. Here in The Netherlands i have the following options: Wilbers (don’t need te Nivomat because i haul nothing and only ride solo), Öhlins and Progressive Suspenension. I only want the “floaty” ride, not sporty, almost no reviews about that.
If you have a good tip, don’t be shy to share! Keep up the good video’s!
Super shox .xom
Arnott air system is on an entirely different level. I had Dirty Air and it was ok but not for putting on the miles. No rebound adjustment is probably the issue. Also dirty air system does not use a manifold for the air lines. A lot of T connectors.
I now have the Arnott system and it has rebound adjustment and manifold. Plus the shocks are unbelievably beefy and manufactured by company well known in the auto industry. 30 day no questions asked refund. Love it.
I pulled the plastic lines off my RK stock shocks, removed the fittings, replaced them with individual Schrader valves.
How do you have the Wilber’s set? 3/4 or 1 inch? I am not overly impressed with them. Set them to 3/4 felt everything. Tuned anothe half turn Lilttle better but still not the best. Love the self adjusting but riding I think the legends were better unless I am missing something. Let me know thanks
I never touched mine. Before they sent them to me they asked me a lot of questions over the phone and they came pretuned for my bike, my weight, how much I carry with me, etc. in the box. How did you get yours? Maybe call them and ask their advice? They are very approachable.
@@ProfessionalMonkey they had them supposedly set for me but still could feel everything. Have called them before gonna call again. I don’t measure by mm I measure by inch.
@@ProfessionalMonkey they took my info again and will call me back today once they go over my order and my preset.
One of the reasons i went progressive suspension on my Vstar 1100. Tons of write ups on how to diy air ride out of a corvette shock, etc. Also full bolt on kits for it, but i wanted comfort, it was already lowered with adjustable dogbones and it was too low, its now a 1/2 lowered with a progressive 465 shock. Set the preload when the Mrs wants to ride and its good. Until i got my Electraglide. That thing is a caddy, even though its 35 years old.
I also consider myself a pretty competent mechanic, so the DIY wasnt an issue, actually spent more on the progressive shock to get the comfort.
Thank you Brother! Very informative!
A relay switch could be added to indicate green up, red down. On handle bars….
thank you for bringing up concerns that i hadn't thought of.
It's the same with everything you buy tho. I know people that's had dirty air for years and never had an issue. But it was installed with care and thought. It makes a big difference on where you run the lines and stuff right. If it doesn't air up 99% of the time it's a fuse or relay. You can always run direct power to the pressure switch to air it up. I build trucks on air ride and the bike is the same just less work. It's very reliable if done right. But like I said everything breaks, nothing is perfect. Your motor could blow up at anytime and leave you stranded.
You hit the nail on the head. That Dirty Air suspension sucks. I have a riding buddy that let a local shop talk him into putting it on his Street Glide. When I put a full Legend suspension on my bike he questioned why I wasn’t going with the Dirty Air. I told him bc I like to ride and I want suspension to work. He’s had nothing but problems with it. Sure does look cool when you pull up to the bar though.
Heyyyy! It's not just a sausage fest !!! I watch yout vids all the time and last I checked I had a taco ! 😂😂😂😂 thanks for all the info !!
Mmmm…. I love taco’s! 🤣
@@beri232 lol yummy!
Yeah, I wondered how long it would be until the shine wore off that air ride thing. Personally, I wouldn't touch it.
What kind of mirrors do you have installed on your Dallas Cowboy colored bagger?
Amazon specials.
Super helpful video building a heritage Cholo style bike been debating if I wanted to go bags or conventional I think I have a decision now
Love the rant! Not a fan of the air ride myself. My buddy has a/r and always griping about the bumps and his headlight is aimed at the moon. YES we already crainked in the headlamp screw... It needs another 1/4" of threads to even get close! That bike sucks to ride at nite!
Ya know I never thought of that!
Informative and entertaining ! Great Content. Keep up the good work ! Love the vid !
Mine decided to raise up itself this morning and fall over, now I've got a clutch lever to replace and a paint job coming.
Lol love the FL bugs.
My 07 Heritage also rides like an old Lincoln. It has stock suspension and solo seat and its cushion soft (parents use to have Presidential edition town car)
The more you ride and adjust it you can make it ride like your on a cloud ! i just got back from a 4000 mile ride on my 2019 RG I love it. if you look down the inside of your right leg you can see the center stand and know that its up or down. THANKS PRO MONKEY FROM OKLAHOMA
In Oregon or cold states like that air ride suspensions (motorcycle or vehicles etc) the moisture in the lines can freeze and leave your bike stuck in the potion you last left it in.
Ok, I have raised my center stand and apparently I didn’t raise it all the way. This is because my bike was running and I couldn’t hear if it “top out” or was all the way up, however it was not and I drove up in the drive way and caught the stand on the approach. “I thought I shouldn’t have bottomed out there” so I pull the bike in the garage and dropped the stand & let out the air. The bike sat normal and I thought nothing of it. I was cleaning it and noticed the leg was not flat on the ground, it was on the “let’s say” the tipsy toe like a ballerina. Kind of like I did not lower the stand all the way so I aired it up and lowered the stand this time without the bike running, so I knew it was all the way down. I looked and same thing so I laid on the floor to see what the 🤬 was going on. Since I pulled in on a turn it only caught on side of the stand and it bent it up an inch. To fix it I had to have a buddy sit on the bike and the only way I could fix it was either take it off and deal with it or just have him sit on it and hit it back in place with a hammer. Trust me I tried everything else, It was not really the ideal way to fix it but I didn’t want to take it off and remount it. I have not had that issue since but it could have turned out much worse than just bending one leg. So I agree it is something you need to constantly think of.
Should come up with a indicator of some sort if one doesn’t already exist.
Good video and it helps someone that might be doing this think hard my luck a line bust doing 85 down I-40 from Ashville NC to Knoxville TN.
What's your longterm plan for that bike? The reason I ask is that you have so many in that small garage, and that bike is probably not one of your favorites. I have one motorcycle, a 2016 Road Glide Special. I'd like to be nostalgic and get a Softail Standard like I used to have similar to you getting that Cross Bones. However, I find my self spending a lot of money on the Road Glide (to improve it) and at the end of the day, I can't justfiy a second motorcyle. How do you justify to your self that another motorcycle is a good idea?
Great vid Monk... and if you really wanna get to the nuts and bolts... Factory harley rear suspension is a poor man's version of what you have, my 08 Electra Glide has it and is F'n sucks balls, it works ok but it bottoms out, it leaks and when 2 up doesn't matter how much air is in it, eventually it leaks off and bottoms out, I will be putting Legend Revo A's on mine as Wilbers are just too expensive, and I agree on the safety issues with air ride every connection is a failure point.. period.. till next time. Cheers from the Great White North 🇨🇦
Thank you, I was gonna do an air ride and center stand. And I was thinking the same thing failure points all over, nice for a bike show. So I bought a manual center stand and lowered the shocks I ride to much to put up with the problems an air ride can be.
You're forgetting that the stock pneumatic Harley suspension is always losing pressure and never stays where you set it.
But that suspension went away several years ago...
I prefer how my Road King looks resting on its sidestand...don't like the "new" custom bagger look at all. But if you have nothing else to spend your money on (I do), be my guest! To each his own.
Good system for a show bike. That would be how I would use it.👍