Shocks air pressure

[Rohan]

Hey everybody,

I'm new to the touring bikes and don't quite have a grasp on the air shocks thing. I have a 98 EG converted to an SG so it's a lot lighter in the rear than a stock EG with the trunk and rack. I only weigh 150 lbs. and my wife only weighs about 100 lbs. I have yet to find a posting about somebody comparable to our size so I figured I would start one. I bought the bike from a 295 pound guy and his comparably large wife. The air gauge is reading 60 pounds. Although this is comfortable, I don't think I need near that amount. What is acceptable for me and the wife? Is it ok to run very low air or no air? If I run less air will it lower the back of the bike?

Thanks all,

-Rohan

[Dave63]

What year or make air shocks. HD air shocks are 35 psi max up to 2008 or so than 50 psi max after that..... If they're HD shocks, you're at too much at 60 psi.

[TmikeX]

I run about 20lbs on mine. I'm about 220 and the Mrs is 125.

[Rohan]

Hey Dave, the guy told me they were stock shocks that go on a 98 model year. I definitely don't want to blow them out so I'll go let some air out of them.

Tmike, I'm thinking I will try 10lbs solo and 15lbs two up. I guess as long as I'm not bottoming out I will be ok.

I forgot to mention I have 35lbs of tire pressure. If that makes a difference.


-Rohan

[TmikeX]

I believe the dealer has me at 35 or 36 on the tires.

[misinlink]

Ro,
Low pressure zero loss type pump.
Do not use your compressor when adding to shocks.

[Rohan]

I got the Harley hand pump with the bike. I was told it puts 2-3 PSI in per pump so I'll go check it out right now. I'll let all the air out and start from scratch.

I want that low rider look but I also want to be comfy and not bottom out.


-Rohan

[TmikeX]

Originally Posted by misinlink

Ro,
Low pressure zero loss type pump.
Do not use your compressor when adding to shocks.

Potential to blow out the shocks.

[Old Coot]

On my 06 RK the manual calls for solo rider @150 lbs. or less, 0 lbs. Solo @150-200lbs.,0-10 psi. 150lb. rider+ pass. up to 150lbs.,10-15psi. It also calls for 36psi Frt.and rear tire press. solo. I dress out at 235lbs. And I run my shocks @ 14-15 psi And my seat @ 40 psi. I don't know how this translates to your bike, but I hope this helps.

[AndyG]

I'm about 285 and I run 20-22 solo and 30-32 with a passenger. Doesn't bottom out, is comfortable, and isn't so firm that it beats your back. It's really a personal thing.

Good luck.