Trike rides like a rock

[geneo]

I just got my first trike. It’s a 96 1500 se with a California kit. Its taking a little getting use to, but I really like it. The only problem I have is that this thing rides like a rock. I’ve tried playing with the air shock, but its no good. I’m use to that good ol Goldwing ride. My wife doesn’t want to ride with me. There must be some after market suspension available. Do any of you know about it and have you had the same problem?

[2fromTX]

We had a 2000 GL1500 Motor Trike,and could always soften up the ride with the air shocks I must say that even though our 08 Ultra is a solid axle,it rides WAY better(smoother/softer) than the 1500 ever did. I chalk most of that up to 8 more years of engineering

[WalterM817]

Have you tried changing the rear tire air pressure? That can make a world of difference.

[Rosy]

What kind of rear tires do you have, bias belted or radials? Type of tire makes a difference, tire pressure also make a difference, shock pressure makes a big difference as my brother-in-law found out about his 1500.
His wife was not very happy with the ride, very rought. Dealer told him to increase the shock pressure to 70 psi and his wife says it is 100% better.
Don't increase your shock pressure till you find out if your trike kit shocks are made to go this high. His trike was bottoming out every time it hit a bump in the road.
What are you running for rear tire pressures? The "norm" now is 22 PSI, a few years ago it was 25+ PSI.
Check your suspension to make sure everything is OK and you don't have anything broken or a bolt is missing from a suspension component. Check your shocks to make sure they are working properly and don't have any leaks.
Good luck and keeps us posted on what you find out, because it may help someone else with the same problem.

Regards,

Rosy
From NH

[John Luciano]

Drop rear tires to 20 lbs

[Gorilla]

guys I think he telling us that the air shock is shot and wants to know what to replace it with. I might be wrong.

[geneo]

Thanks for the input. I called California trikes today talked to the tech. He said to look at the coil over shocks. I did and they were adjusted all the way down. I turned them to the middle setting and we took it out. It was way better. He also said to drop the rear tires from 25 to 20 lbs. I'm going to do that tomorrow. I think mama was happy with it today. Thanks again for your help.