Air ride suspension for Harley Street Glide motorcycles replaces factory shocks with adjustable air springs, allowing riders to fine-tune ride height, load capacity, and comfort. It enhances cornering stability, reduces vibration, and improves weight distribution for touring. Premium systems like Arnott Air Suspension or Legend Suspensions offer wireless controls and on-the-fly adjustments.
How much does good air suspension cost?
How Does Air Ride Suspension Work on a Harley Street Glide?
Air ride systems use compressed air in pneumatic chambers to replace traditional coil springs. A compressor inflates or deflates air bags via handlebar-mounted controls, letting riders adjust preload and stiffness. Sensors monitor load weight and road conditions, automatically optimizing ride quality. This eliminates “bottoming out” during heavy loads while maintaining a plush feel on straightaways.
Modern systems employ twin air chambers – a primary chamber for base support and a secondary chamber that activates during compression. This dual-stage design allows for progressive spring rates, meaning the suspension stiffens as it compresses further. High-end kits like the Legend REVO ARC feature Bluetooth-enabled controllers that store multiple presets (e.g., “Solo Ride” or “Two-Up Touring”). The compressor itself is typically a rotary vane type, generating 150 PSI within 8 seconds while drawing less than 10 amps. Critical maintenance involves replacing desiccant cartridges every 6 months to prevent moisture damage.
What Are the Benefits of Upgrading to Air Suspension?
Key advantages include 3″ of adjustable ride height for easier mounting, 40% reduced fatigue on long rides, and 25% improved tire wear from balanced weight distribution. Riders gain the ability to stiffen suspension for aggressive cornering or soften it for cobblestone roads. Air systems also enable automatic leveling when carrying passengers or luggage.
How do I choose the right suspension?
Which Air Ride Kits Are Compatible With Street Glide Models?
Top-rated options include Arnott Air Suspension‘s A-2725 Series (2014-2023 models), Legend Suspensions’ REVO ARC with Bluetooth control, and Slam Specialties’ SS-200 for lowered bikes. Harley’s own Screamin’ Eagle Air Suspension Kit (part# 52400271) maintains factory warranty coverage. Kuryakyn’s NXGA Suspension offers dual-rate air springs for mixed touring/city use.
| Kit | Compatible Models | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arnott A-2725 | 2014-2023 | Speed-sensitive auto-leveling | $1,899-$2,300 |
| Legend REVO ARC | 2009-2023 | Bluetooth presets | $2,450-$2,799 |
| Screamin’ Eagle 52400271 | 2018-2023 | Warranty-safe | $1,650-$1,950 |
Does Air Ride Suspension Affect Harley Warranty Coverage?
Only Harley-Davidson authorized kits (like Screamin’ Eagle) preserve factory warranties. Third-party systems may void powertrain coverage if improperly installed. Dealerships require professional installation documentation. Air compressors drawing over 15A might necessitate electrical system upgrades. Always consult your service manual’s Section 4.32.1 before modification.
The warranty implications depend on how the suspension interacts with other systems. Modifications that alter the frame geometry or exceed GVWR ratings will automatically void coverage. Dealers use the Digital Technician III scan tool to detect suspension-related ECU changes – even minor pressure adjustments could flag the system. For riders wanting third-party kits, extended warranties through companies like RPM One ($1,200-$1,800 for 5 years) often cover air suspension components. Always retain receipts for all parts and labor, as Harley may request proof that installations followed OEM torque specs and wiring diagrams.
How to Maintain Air Suspension Components in Winter?
Winterize systems by adding 2oz of ISO-32 hydraulic oil to air lines monthly. Use silicone-based lubricant on O-rings to prevent -20°F brittleness. Install a moisture trap ($45-$80) in compressed air lines to avoid frozen valves. Cycle suspension weekly when stored to prevent diaphragm creasing. Maintain 85-110 PSI during storage to keep seals tensioned.
Can You Combine Air Suspension With Aftermarket Shock Absorbers?
Yes. Progressive Suspension’s 970 Series shocks pair with Arnott air springs using BAG-001 adapters. The hybrid setup allows separate damping (rebound/compression) and spring rate adjustments. Expect 15% better high-speed stability versus air-only systems. However, combined systems add 8-12lbs and require custom mounting brackets ($220-$400).
What Hidden Costs Come With Air Ride Installations?
Beyond the $1,200-$2,500 kit price, budget $300 for a high-output alternator (75A+), $180 for reinforced swingarm bushings, and $600-$900 professional installation. Annual costs include $90 air filter replacements and $220 compressor rebuilds every 25k miles. Unexpected costs: $350-500 for ECU remapping if error codes appear.
“Modern air suspensions now integrate with Harley’s RDRS safety system. We’re seeing demand for systems that auto-stiffen during lean angles over 35° while maintaining comfort. The real game-changer is predictive AI that adjusts pressure based on GPS map data – it reads the road ahead like a pro rider.”
– J.T. Lehman, Lead Engineer at Ironborne Suspensions (2023 AIM Innovation Award Winner)
Air ride suspension transforms the Harley Street Glide into a versatile machine capable of razor-sharp handling and cloud-like comfort. While requiring greater upfront investment than traditional setups, the precision tuning and adaptive capabilities justify the cost for serious tourers. Always prioritize kits with stainless steel air lines and dual-redundancy valves for maximum reliability.
FAQs
- Does air suspension lower the Street Glide at speed?
- Quality systems maintain preset ride heights within 0.5″ up to 90mph. Advanced kits like the Arnott A-2725S include speed-sensitive auto-leveling that accounts for aerodynamic lift.
- How long do air suspension bags last?
- High-end polyurethane bags endure 75,000-100,000 miles. Rubber alternatives last 35,000-50,000 miles. Environmental factors matter – desert heat degrades bags 30% faster than temperate climates.
- Can I install air suspension myself?
- Mechanically inclined riders can complete installations in 8-12 hours using JIS screwdrivers and 12mm crowfoot wrenches. Critical steps include proper routing of air lines away from exhaust (maintain 2″ clearance) and torqueing mounting bolts to 18-22 ft-lbs with blue Loctite.