Stiff ride 08 FLHTP : V-Twin Forum: Harley Davidson Forums

Pappy1600 · 06-25-2009, 08:01 PM

Just want to start off saying hello, LEO here from NY, bought a 08' FLHTP last year and converted it for 2 up riding, noticed that the front end is very stiff and you feel every bump you hit with the bike, is there anyway to make the ride smoother? also would like to lower the ride hight about 1" , more for flat footing on stops and helping when riding with the wife. any info would be great. I rode my buddies 08 Street glide and noticed a big difference in ride hight along with the smoothness of the ride and handling and now I am jealous

Terry

Pappy1600 · 06-27-2009, 04:42 PM

30+ views and no response? wow great forum

route66paul · 06-27-2009, 04:48 PM

Maybe no one has any idea why that could be. i would think that there was too much oil in there, but that bike is pretty new, and it usually isn't changed that quickly. That is a tough call.

Pappy1600 · 06-27-2009, 05:21 PM

Thanks for the response, I thought the same but I was wondering if the springs are heavy duty for the bike?

ponderopa · 06-27-2009, 07:03 PM

Always heard the FLHTP was a smooth ride; did you buy the bike new? If not, can you talk to the previous owner about any changes, issues, possible damage? I guess my other question is, the front end is very stiff compared to what? Did you ride your buddy's street glide on the same road with same bumps etc? Just thinkin' out loud here. Don't give up on the forum; some days are slower than others!

route66paul · 06-28-2009, 02:45 AM

Flhtp should be the same as the other baggers with normal travel suspension(the street glides don't apply). If you are having trouble, I would get it looked at, it could be dangerous.

ponderopa · 06-28-2009, 07:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by route66paul

Flhtp should be the same as the other baggers with normal travel suspension(the street glides don't apply). If you are having trouble, I would get it looked at, it could be dangerous.

Very good point; Safety 1st

shrinkman2 · 06-28-2009, 07:48 AM

Not sure about the front end...I'd sure get it checked...However, my road king was too tall and they simply lowered the rear end only with one inch shorter shocks....Couldn't believe the difference..much easier to hold up (also put a touring seat that gets very narrow in the front and doesn't hold my legs far apart...able to use strength of legs now instead of feeling like I'm sitting on a barrel) and it lowered the center of gravity and it now handles like a sport bike...used to feel like it was top heavy! Hope this helps.