When it comes to upgrading the suspension on Harley Davidson touring motorcycles, there are many options available. Two popular aftermarket suspension systems are RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A. Both of these suspension upgrades aim to provide a smoother, more comfortable ride and improve overall handling and performance.
We’ve engaged in numerous discussions weighing the pros and cons of these two suspension systems, and it seems that opinions tend to vary. Some riders swear by the performance of RWD RS1 shocks, while others praise the durability and load-carrying capabilities of the Legend REVO A system.
In this article, we will provide an unbiased comparison of these two popular suspension upgrades, taking into account factors such as performance, comfort, durability, and cost. Our goal is to help fellow riders make an informed decision when choosing the best suspension system for their touring motorcycle.
RWD RS1 Overview
First off, the guys at RWD, have partnered with two renowned people within the off-road racing world, Russ Wernimont and Walker Evans, to design and manufacture the high-performance RS1 Shocks. With tons of racing technology between these two industry giants, RWD claims to provide the Harley world with a performance shock that truly outperforms anything on the market today.
RS1 Shocks feature an aluminum body and a stainless steel shaft, giving them durability and lightweight characteristics. The shock absorbers come in lengths ranging from 13″ to 15″ and are designed with ½” steel FK rod ends with round-shaped bearing ends. This design ensures optimal performance on various road types, providing excellent handling and comfort for the rider.
When comparing the RWD RS1 Shocks to the Legends REVO A, it’s essential to consider a few key features:
- Material: RS1 shocks have an aluminum body and stainless steel shaft, making them lightweight and sturdy.
- Length: Ranging from 13″ to 15″, RWD shocks cater to different riding styles and preferences.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit an array of Harley Davidson models, the RS1 shocks aim to deliver improved performance for a wide variety of riders.
Ultimately, the commitment to quality and performance has led RWD to create the RS1 Shocks. By leveraging the expertise of Russ Wernimont and Walker Evans, they strive to offer a product that tries to raise the bar in the Harley suspension market.
Legend Revo A Overview
The Legend Revo A suspension system has some unique features that set it apart from others. One aspect that differentiates it from competitors is the use of a 2″ longer spring. This longer spring allows for a wide range of adjustability and a smoother ride.
In addition to the longer spring, the REVO A system also boasts a rebound adjuster knob. This feature is absent in the standard REVO model, giving the REVO A an advantage in adjusting to various road conditions. The rebound adjuster knob offers six settings, ranging from the softest and quickest reacting (#1) to the firmest and slowest reacting (#6).
Riders have found the Legend Revo A suspension to be comfortable and capable of soaking up bumps and road imperfections without causing discomfort. The Revo A is available in 12″ (stock), 13″, and 14″ lengths, catering to various preferences and motorcycle models. The suspension system performs well on both late and early-model Dyna frames, making it a versatile option for Harley Davidson enthusiasts.
RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A Performance
In this section, we will compare the performance of RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A shocks, focusing on four main aspects: suspension technology, adjustability, comfort, and handling.
Suspension Technology
The RWD RS1 shocks were designed by Russ Wernimont and manufactured by Walker Evans Racing, taking advantage of their vast experience in off-road racing. Combining their knowledge, they have developed a high-performance shock capable of outperforming many other options in the market.
Legend REVO A shocks, on the other hand, are made with aluminum making them not only highly durable but also lightweight. They come in various gauge rates, providing adaptability for different load weights and road conditions.
Adjustability
The adjustability of both the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A shocks makes each of them suitable for various preferences and riding conditions. Legend REVO A shocks offer several gauge rates, including standard, heavy-duty, and super-duty, catering to different load weights and user preferences.
RWD RS1 shocks also provide similar adjustability, where they have adjustable compression dampening and adjustable spring pre-load as well.
Comfort
Both the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A shocks focus on providing comfort for riders. As mentioned earlier, Legend REVO A shocks come in different gauge rates, enabling users to fine-tune their ride according to their load and riding preferences.
With the collaboration between Russ Wernimont and Walker Evans Racing, RWD RS1 shocks were designed to provide a comfortable and smooth ride, leveraging their vast off-road racing experience.
Handling
With the racing experience brought by Russ Wernimont and Walker Evans Racing, the RWD RS1 shocks enhance handling and cornering, providing a stable and responsive ride across various road conditions. Legend REVO A shocks, on the other hand, with their various gauge rates, deliver a fine-tuned ride and improved handling for different situations, enabling users to choose the most suitable option for their needs.
Construction and Durability
When comparing the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A shocks, it’s important to consider the construction and durability of each product. As leading shocks in the market, both have unique aspects that contribute to their longevity and performance.
Beginning with the RWD RS1 shocks, these are the result of a collaboration between two legends, Russ Wernimont and Walker Evans. This partnership brings together decades of racing technology, which is evident in the design and manufacturing of the RS1 shocks. Their durable construction includes a nitrogen-charged monotube design, resulting in an almost unrivalled, high-performance shock for the Harley touring market.
On the other hand, the Legend REVO A shocks are recognized for their superior performance on arduous road conditions. These shocks are designed with precision-machined components, which provide excellent durability and longevity. Additionally, they incorporate an external knob for easy adjustment, allowing riders to make changes to their suspension settings without the need for tools or disassembly.
When examining the overall longevity of each shock, there are a few factors to consider. RS1 shocks have been noted to last up to 70,000 miles when properly used and maintained, with older shocks potentially holding up for at least 40,000 miles. In comparison, Legend REVO A shocks have been reported to endure a standard mileage of around 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on pressure and riding conditions.
Warranty coverage also varies between these two products. While specific terms and conditions may differ, it’s important to consider warranties as they provide a level of confidence in the construction and durability of each shock.
Aesthetics and Design
When considering the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A shocks, aesthetics and design play an essential role in choosing the right suspension for your Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle. Both shocks offer not only performance improvements but also unique design features that cater to different riders’ preferences.
The RWD RS1 shocks showcase a distinctive off-road racing-inspired design with their piggyback reservoirs. This design feature not only contributes to the performance of the shocks but also gives them a rugged, aggressive look that complements the Harley Davidson touring bikes.
On the other hand, the Legend REVO A shocks emphasize a cleaner, more streamlined design. Without the piggyback reservoirs, these shocks have a more traditional appearance that suits riders who prefer a classic look for their suspension system. That being said, the Legend REVO A shocks still deliver top-notch performance, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride.
Both the RWD RS1 and Legend REVO A shocks come in various finishes, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your motorcycle’s overall aesthetic. Additionally, both offer ease of adjustability, making it simple to switch between solo and two-up riding or to accommodate different payloads and preferences.
In terms of aesthetics and design, the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A shocks cater to different styles and preferences, yet they both provide significant performance upgrades for your Harley Davidson Touring motorcycle. Ultimately, the choice between these two high-quality shocks depends on your personal taste and riding requirements.
Price and Value
When considering the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A suspension upgrades for your Harley Davidson, it is essential to compare their price and value. Both performance shocks offer unique features and benefits; however, the cost of each product may vary.
The RWD RS1 Shock Absorber for Touring is priced at $999.99. The RWD RS1 is designed to outperform many other performance shocks on the market, making it a valuable investment for those seeking to improve suspension and ride quality for their motorcycle.
On the other hand, the Legend REVO A shocks come at a slightly lower price point with a saving of 4c at $999.95, which won’t make a difference to anyone buying either of these products. Recognized for their limited lifetime warranty and backed by consistently positive reviews, the Legend REVO A shocks provide added value through enhanced reliability and servicing advantages.
Some factors that may influence your decision when evaluating the price and value of these performance shocks include:
- Initial purchase price
- Warranty and servicing benefits
- Performance improvements
- Customer satisfaction and reviews
In conclusion, both the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A offer competitive price points and value for their respective features and benefits. The final decision will likely depend on individual rider preferences, budget, and desired performance outcomes.
Final Verdict – RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A
In our analysis of the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A, we have found that both suspension systems offer unique features, each catering to different rider preferences. The RS1 features Billet Piggy Back Reservoir, Internal Bypass Technology, and high-quality Eibach springs that come standard in black. On the other hand, the Legend REVO A suspension is known for its improved handling and performance on Harley Davidson touring motorcycles.
When deciding between the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A, it’s essential to consider factors such as suspension performance, adjustability, and bike compatibility as per the user’s preferences. While both suspensions offer quality benefits, it’s of utmost importance to select the one which aligns with the specific motorcycle and usage.
We believe that riders should also pay attention to feedback from fellow bikers to make an informed decision. It’s crucial to remember that a well-functioning suspension system will not only improve comfort and handling but also enhance the overall riding experience.
As we conclude our comparison of the RWD RS1 vs Legend REVO A, we hope this information has helped you understand the differences between these two suspension options. It’s important to make the right choice based on your personal preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.