Is your Harley air ride suspension system outdated, and you can’t high or lower it properly? Do you think you should replace your old one to improve your riding experience? If so, you need the best air ride for Street Glide to get this done, and we’ve reviewed a few for you.
Air rides make your bike perform at its best while riding, as this suspension, is better than any other system. They come with many benefits, improve bike health and performance, and are tools for a smooth ride. What’s more is they are adjustable, you can tailor them to your needs.
Bikers who mostly travel long distances, their installed air rides reduce their function quickly. If your old air ride is less effective or you want to revamp your bike, you should add a new one. It’ll make your ride more enjoyable, make it stable, and ease bike handling.
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Reviews of 7 Best Air Rides For Street Glide In 2023
If you’re looking to smooth your ride and make it comfortable even on bumpy roads, pick a quality air ride. We’ve reviewed the 7 best air rides for Street Glide. All these are kits that you can buy and install on your bike right away. Let’s get started with our best picks.
#1. XFMT Adjustable Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit
Key Features
- Compatible: Harley Touring models Electra Street Road Glide Road King 1994-2021
- Fully Collapsed approx. 9.64inches(24.5cm)
- Fully extended 14.17inches(36cm)
- Lower your bike 2 to 3 inches
Welcome to the XFMT adjustable rear air ride suspension kit with high-end ride quality. This kit is easy to assemble and can be electronically raised and lowered. Its two aluminum legs and stainless steel provide a very sturdy base and allow you to sit upright while parked.
XFMT’s air ride is a unique product as it is compatible with various models of Harley Davidson bikes. It encloses everything you’d expect from an air ride. The kit contains clear instructions, and the installation process is straightforward.
Why Did We Choose It
The XFMT air ride system is a brand known for its superior performance when the shocks are deflated fully without disturbing your Harley’s performance. Using an electronic linear actuator to raise and lower the legs, its Rear Electric Stand provides versatility.
The unit uses high-pressure and push-to-connect connections across the unified system. This kit also owns all the items necessary for a fully functioning and air-adjustable rear suspension. So, there is no compromise to the comfort or functionality of the kit.
By using this kit, it is possible to ride without air pressure. It means that you can cruise around with your bike comfortably. In the unlikely event that you lose air pressure, your tire will not rub against your fender.
This air ride kit is the best replacement for stock touring shocks with a height-adjustable air shock. It can extend to 14.17 inches and collapse to approximately 9.64 inches. And yes, it’s surprisingly a great adjustment option one can get.
Likewise, the kit offers two main rear air suspension shocks that can lower the bike up to 3 inches when it releases all the air. You could buy this product if you have the Harley model from 1994 to the present.
Pros
- Complete kit with affordable price
- Highly adjustable to high and lower
- Can lower bikes up to 3 inches
- Compatible with many Harley bikes
Cons
- Can’t fit cross under exhaust pipes
Our Review
XFMT is the best air ride for Street Glide at a good price. You can install it quickly, have a long life expectancy, and feature everything you can expect from such a product. Its price-quality ratio is excellent and fits Harley models 1994-2022.
#2. TCT-MT Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit
Key Features
- Compatible: Harley Touring Bagger Electra Glide Street Glide Road Glide 1994-2022
- Fully Collapsed approx. 9.64inches(24.5cm)
- Fully extended 14.17inches (36cm)
- Lower your bike 2 to 3 inches
TCT-MT Rear might be the best suspension air ride kit for Street Glide you can ever buy. Such a simple kit will make the installation process much more manageable than anything else. It fits all Harley Street Glide models from 1994 to 2020.
You will receive all the things you need and get the perfect height for your ride because it includes all the components. Consider that this whole system comes with nickel-plated brass fittings that need only one push to install.
Why Did We Choose It
TCT-MT is a complete kit assembled to replace your stock touring shocks with height-adjustable air shocks. When it entirely collapses, it goes to 9.7-inches and extends up to 14.2-inches. It will allow you to drop your bike two or three inches when you release all the air.
The air is up to stock ride height for a smooth ride in moments. All fittings are nickel-plated brass that offer high-flow and high-pressure, and push-to-connect fittings across the entire system. Thus, there is a manifold-type dump valve block for the best possible performance.
Using this kit makes it possible to ride without air pressure. It means that you can cruise on your bike with the air pressure sucked out. It’s still possible to ride without rubbing your tire against your fender, such as on most ‘08-models or ’09-models that have the stock rear tire.
This kit includes all fully functional, height-adjustable rear air suspension components that will not let you down and will offer superior performance. This kit owns a manifold-style dump valve block and will never affect the functionality, and you will enjoy a safe and comfortable ride.
Pros
- Nickel-plated fittings
- High flow and high-pressure components
- Complete kit with push-to-connect fittings
- Low air pressure does not cause rubbing
- Fully adjustable, fully extendable shocks
Cons
- No wire harness
- Might leak with time
Our Review
The most remarkable thing about this air ride is that it prevents rubbing the tire against the fender, a common complaint about 2008-2009 models. It will no longer be dangerous to lose air pressure, allowing you to enjoy slammed cruises without fear.
#3. Monroe MA785 Max-Air Air Ride
Key Features
- Can Inflate or deflate up to 150 PSI
- Can maintain additional weight up to 1,200 lbs
- Made in United States
The Monroe MA785 Max-Air is an all-weather fluid system with special modifiers to diminish friction and ensure smooth rod movement. Featuring 1.5-inches Piston Rod provides hardened and precision ground rod for durability, safety, consistent performance, and long service life.
So this made in the USA monster has a broader range of valving on both compression and extension cycles to provide a smooth, comfortable ride. Besides, it has a stylish air-adjustable internal design that provides proper vehicle ride height when additional weight is loaded.
Why Did We Choose It
Monroe Max-Air is compatible with most Street Glide models with automatic leveling systems. It features all the basics that a biker wants, such as owning a fluid that reduces friction and displaced valving for a smooth and comfortable ride.
The Monroe MA785 Max-Air will let you carry heavy loads on your bike. Thus, its max-air rear air adjustable shock ensures a smooth and comfortable drive regardless of weight and road conditions.
When carrying about 1000 pounds of additional weight, the air pressure is increased up to 150 psi or deflated to 20 psi for everyday driving. Each set comes in two pieces and works well with this automatic leveling system.
This shock unit also features full displaced valving for a better range on both compression and extension. So, it also offers a smooth, comfortable ride and strong sintered iron pistons for long service life.
The unit has hardened and precision ground 1.5-inches diameter piston rod and special air fittings that resist leakage. It’s a leading brand of high-quality air suspension and provides improved technology and outstanding performance solutions.
Pros
- Offers a smooth ride and fits plenty of models
- Durable materials ensure it will resist unpleasant things
- It reduces friction through special modifiers
- Hardened rod offers a long service life
Cons
- Prone to leakage after some time
- The bushing size might not match the rest of kit
Our Review
The Monroe air ride shock absorber holds a lubricated air sleeve for smoother operation. It has a sintered iron piston that enhances durability and gives you prolonged lifetime service. So, Monroe Max-Air air shock absorbers maintain bike height and ensure a level vehicle.
#4. SLMOTO Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit
Key Features
- Compatible: Harley Touring Bagger Electra Street Road Glide Road King 1994-2020
- Fully Collapsed approx. 9.64inches(24.5cm)
- Fully extended 14.17inches(36cm).
- Lower your bike 2 to 3 inches
There’s nothing extraordinary about this air ride kit from SLMOTO, but there’s also nothing wrong with it. It comes with the same features and functions as other brands’ units. For us, it’s worth the investment for your Street Glide as it offers great performance.
One difference would be the price-quality ratio, so consider reading the features below to decide. It’ll offer outstanding performance because of its high-quality materials, but you should handle it carefully during the treatment process.
Why Did We Choose It
The SLMOTO Air Ride Suspension Kit is the best fit for Harley touring models ranging from innovative models1994 to 2019. It offers versatility with its adaptability because of its construction from nickel-plated heavy-duty brass.
Thus, because of nickel-plated brass high-flow, the system offers high-pressure push-to-connect fittings across the whole system. In comparison, its manifold-style dump valve block enhances superior performance. It means that you will enjoy your cruise comfortably on your bike.
It has an air tank that enables flexibility and adjustable height to lower your ride’s range by 2 to 3 inches. It makes this air ride safer, more comfortable, and remains stable. Upgraded gas nozzles offer 360-degree rotation and a genuine connection to prevent air leakage.
In its extended state, it stretches to 14.17-inches, and when it collapses, it holds the size of 9.64-inches. This suspension kit delivers zero air pressure, preventing the bike from scraping against the fender. As a result, the bike will not spin out of control even in high winds.
Pros
- Waterproof and Dustproof
- Features brass nickel-plated
- Adjustable height of 2 to 3-inches
- A broad range of fit for Harley bikes
- Manifold-style dump valve included
Cons
- Compressors need time to adjust the height.
Our Review
SLMOTO air ride is compatible with most Harley touring models from 1994 to 2019. This kit includes all the components for a fully functional kit. So, you can ride with zero air pressure without rubbing, and you will get a smooth and comfortable ride.
#5. BURLY Black Slammer Air Ride Kit
Key Features
- Stubby shocks
- Preload adjustable to tune to rider weight
- Stubby 10. 5 inches eye to eye measurement
- Made in the U.S.A.
BURLY is one of the known brands that manufacture high-quality products, including air rides. If you don’t want to spend much time installing what you need, the BURLY Slammer Kit is a good option. This air ride is very sturdy, and the performance surpasses all expectations.
The most significant advantage of this model is that you can install it within an hour. You only need household tools to do it. The instructions are clear, and it serves most Harley models, so you should be fine.
Why Did We Choose It
BURLY is a new product, but it has excellent reviews. So, it deserves a spot on our list of the best air ride for Street Glide. Please consider that FLH models might need supplementary installation stages and additional tools.
The BURLY Slammer Kit is made in the USA; the shocks, like the fork springs, are now available in the marketplace. And that’s why you won’t find a higher quality shock at this excellent price. For its high adjustability, you can quickly lower the front of the bike up to 2-inches.
Its dropped fork springs and stubby shocks offer an easy installation process. It does not require disassembly of the forks, so the bike’s front end can be adjusted while installing the kit. It means that you will easily adjust the fork springs in the unit.
After that, you can easily install this air suspension kit along with the wheels. This allows you to adjust the spring up to 10.5-inches and shocks lower rear up to 2.5-inches. So, it comes with the essential components to install it on your bike in less than an hour.
Pros
- It comes with fork springs
- Very sturdy and durable shocks
- Compatible with most models
- The installation process is quick and easy
Cons
- On bumpy roads, rigidity might be excessive
Our Review
The Black Slammer Kit is the only air ride suspension system that outweighs its competitors. This air kit doubles your Harley’s air suspension and is best for all-terrain riding, making it perfect for Harley touring. It permits lateral play while eradicating the up-and-down motion.
#6. American Suspension AR-70/41A Fork Tube Air Ride Kit
Key Features
- Made in USA
- One pair of Air pistons complete with bushings and seals
- Set of shortened inner springs
- Pair of fork cap air fittings for American Suspension short neck triple tree kit
Now we have the best, a bit pricey, yet efficient choice for you: the AR-70/41A Fork Tube Air Ride kit by American Suspension. It’s a famous company for its approach to assembling air ride kits, which contain everything you need for your bike.
As per air rides, you can expect quality from them, and yes, they don’t deceive you. Besides air fittings, this model fits Street Glide models from 2000-2013. It has a low noise level, a significant factor that many consumers prefer.
Why Did We Choose It
American Suspension AR Tube Air Ride is famous for its superiority over its competitors. This unit comes up with two significant features: high-quality and efficient features. This option is the best for bikers who want an air ride for a long time at a one-time investment.
That’s why the kit is superior to the products available in the market. It deserves to be named the best air ride for Harley Bikes because it is one of the complete kits you’ll find and comes with everything you require for the installation process and more.
The gentlemen at American Suspension have done it again; they’ve added pistons and a cap to this kit to fit your bike. It’s an excellent addition to a rear air ride system. The kit includes two air shocks for the rear, which can lower the bike up to 2 to 3 inches with a quick air release.
This air ride kit serves as the best replacement for touring shocks with a height-adjustable air shock. The maximum extended length is up to 14.17-inches, with a collapsed size of 9.64-inches, providing suitable height adjustment.
Pros
- The kit includes air pistons, bushings, and seals
- Shortened inner springs for good fitting
- Featuring a triple tree kit
- Everyone can install it easily
- It comes with a short neck triple tree kit
Cons
- The product does not fit a wide range of models
Our Review
The AR-70/41A Fork Tube Air Ride Kit is purely made in the United States, and you will get an original piece that will last you for a longer time. The unit also features a set of shortened inner springs and a pair of fork cap air fittings for high pressure across the entire system.
Also, you will get one pair of air pistons with bushings and seals. Overall, it offers the most remarkable performance that you might expect from it.
#7. TCT-MT Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit With Air Tank
Key Features
- Fits all Harley touring models 1994-2020
- Fully Collapsed approx. 9.64 inches (24.5cm)
- Fully extended 14.17 inches (36cm)
- All nickel-plated brass high-flow high-pressure push-to-connect fittings throughout the entire system
- Can rotate 360° and directly inserted into the air pipe to reduce the air leakage point.
With the TCT-MT Rear Air Ride Suspension Kit with Air Tank, you will get up to stock ride height for a smooth journey. This system features all nickel-plated brass high-pressure with snap-in fittings. It also has a manifold-style dump valve block for maximum efficiency.
You will bring all the business you need for a significant operation, fully height-adjustable rear air suspension. As a result, you can ride without air pressure, so it means that you can cruise around and enjoy a comfortable ride.
Why Did We Choose It
TCT-MT Rear Air Ride might be the best air ride for Street Glide you can ever get. You may find it challenging to replace your stock shocks with adjustable ones. But you will get everything that you’ll require for getting the desired height for your ride in this unit.
Consider that this whole system comes with nickel-plated brass fittings for easy installation. Using this kit, you will lower your bike by 2 to 3 inches. It’s a complete kit assembled to replace your stock touring shocks with height-adjustable air shocks.
When it entirely collapses, it goes to 9.7-inches and extends up to 14.2-inches. When your tire loses air pressure for whatever reason, it will not rub against your fenders. Thus, you can ride with no air pressure or friction.
This kit includes all fully functional, height-adjustable rear air suspension components that will perform flawlessly and deliver outstanding results. It also owns a manifold-style dump valve block that will never affect its functionality, and you will enjoy a safe and comfortable ride.
Pros
- Nickel-plated fittings
- Features high flow and high-pressure segments
- The manifold-style dump valve block
- No rubbing is involved at zero air pressure
- On 2008-2009 models, it prevents tire rubbing
Cons
- There is no wire harness
- It might lead to leaks over time
Our Review
The most remarkable feature of this air ride is that it prevents the tire from rubbing against the fenders. So losing air pressure is no longer a concern, allowing you to go on slammed cruises without worrying. It can work on almost all Street Glide models from 1994 to 2020.
Best Air Ride For Street Glide – Buying Guide
Riding a street glide is entertaining. However, update it with the best air ride if you want to make your street glide even more enjoyable. It can be challenging to upgrade the street glide with the best air ride. Don’t worry, though, because it only requires a few technical skills.
Without knowing how to ride with air rides on a Street Glide, one must not upgrade the bike with an air ride. And after upgrading the bike with the best air ride, the rider needs to have the motorcycle checked by a mechanic to avoid injury and damage to the bike.
What Are The Benefits of An Air Ride For Street Glides?
Installing air rides to street glide makes your journey more comfortable, and the riders think they are floating on a cloud. Adjustable firmness of the air suspension makes your ride smooth and easy.
After installing air rides to the bike, you can lower your motorcycle or raise it whenever you want. Changing seasons can’t affect the ride quality of an adjustable air ride.
Tips For Choosing The Best Air Ride For A Street Glide
Every person does not have much technical knowledge and skills about installing air rides to Street Glide. After reading the following tips, we hope you will have the best idea for installing the best air ride on your bike.
Load Capacity
If you wish to upgrade your street glide with an air ride, the first crucial thing to consider is whether the air ride can handle your bike’s weight or not. Air rides with a higher load capacity last longer than those with a lower load capacity.
Quality of Air Ride Parts
Another element to consider when purchasing an air ride for a street glide is the quality of the air ride parts. Manufacturers utilize various lightweight materials, such as aluminum, to increase the ability to rise in air rides.
You must thoroughly inspect all aspects of the air ride. Otherwise, you will have to get upset over the spilled milk. To determine how much pressure the air ride can sustain, the buyer must examine the strength of the system’s fitting.
Maximum Pressure Rating
Adjustability is the most significant feature of air rides. You can change pressure inside the air suspension to adjust it. The best air ride for Street Glide has a high-pressure rating to make the adjustment easier.
Maximum-pressure-rated air rides are more reliable than low-pressure-rated air rides. Because the air ride must lift the entire motorcycle into the air, the pressure rating is an important consideration when selecting air rides.
Warranty Period
Before purchasing any machine, the buyers need to check the machine’s warranty period. Various air rides have different warranty periods. While buying an air ride for your street glide, you need to pick the one with an extended warranty period, as if you damage your bike during an accident, it will cover up your loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which one is better, an air ride or a spring ride?
The adjustability of an air ride suspension is far greater than a spring ride. An air ride suspension provides more stiffness for adjustment. Motorcyclists can drive due to the high adjustability.
Is there any limitation for using air rides in all seasons?
There is no limitation of using the air ride whenever you want. The air rides work the same in the winter and summer seasons. You have to adjust the psi according to your needs.
Does an air ride improve motorcycle riding?
Yes, of course, an air ride can improve your bike’s riding to a large extent. Riding on a street glide with an air ride makes the rider ride smoothly and comfortably.
How does an air ride suspension work on a motorcycle?
The air ride suspension works on the compressed air that the compressor has given to air springs. Due to the air compression ratio, the rider can achieve the necessary suspension stiffness level. After acquiring the required level, you can get the desired riding results.
Conclusion – Best Air Ride For Street Glide
Well! That’s all about the best air ride for Street Glide so far. Air rides working at their best are perfect for smooth and comfortable rides. They enhance the quality of your riding and are a good replacement for other suspension systems.
Apart from this, air rides improve the handling and speed of your bike. As air rides are the best solution for dealing with bumps on the road, you won’t regret your purchase. Before getting one, make sure to buy a quality air ride to last longer and perform well.