Legend Revo A Shocks
Legend Revo-A shocks represent the pinnacle of high-performance aftermarket coil suspension systems designed specifically for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Engineered and manufactured in the USA by Legend Suspensions, the Revo-A lineup transforms the harsh, bottoming-out ride characteristics of factory OEM shocks into a plush, controlled, and responsive touring experience. Featuring external six-position rebound damping adjustments, low-friction internal valving, and progressive-rate coil springs, Revo-A shocks provide unmatched comfort for aggressive cornering and long-distance two-up touring.
Engineering Architecture and Deflective Disc Damping
The engineering foundation of Legend Revo-A shocks centers on its proprietary deflective disc valving architecture. Unlike conventional factory twin-tube shocks that rely on simple orifice damping—which becomes harsh during rapid high-speed compressions over potholes—the Revo-A features a precision-machined 35mm monotube piston equipped with multi-stage deflective shim stacks. This setup provides progressive, velocity-sensitive damping that glides over minor road chatter while firmly absorbing harsh road impacts.
Furthermore, the Revo-A incorporates seven-position external rebound damping adjustment knobs located conveniently at the base of each shock body. Riders can adjust damping resistance by hand without needing specialized tools. Turning the detented dial alters internal oil bleed orifices, allowing riders to fine-tune suspension rebound speed to match rider weight, passenger loads, luggage weights, and varying road surfaces in seconds.
Compare technical specifications and damping configurations across Legend Revo-A shock series:
| Specification / Feature | Legend Revo-A Standard | Legend Revo-A Heavy Duty (HD) | Rider Performance Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Rate Calibration | Progressive Standard Rate | Progressive Stiffened Heavy Duty | Standard tuned for <250 lbs; HD tuned for >250-500 lbs total load |
| External Rebound Adjustment | 6 or 7 Detented Positions | 6 or 7 Detented Positions | Customizable rebound control to eliminate high-speed pogo bounce |
| Available Lengths | 12 Inch, 13 Inch, 14 Inch | 12 Inch, 13 Inch, 14 Inch | 13-inch increases lean angle and travel over low 12-inch factory stance |
| Damping Technology | Deflective Disc Monotube | Deflective Disc Monotube | Eliminates oil cavitation and prevents suspension fade in summer heat |
| Preload Adjustment Method | Threaded Billet Aluminum Collar | Threaded Billet Aluminum Collar | Infinite preload fine-tuning by hand with zero spanner wrench slippage |
| Manufacturing & Warranty | Made in Sturgis, SD / Lifetime | Made in Sturgis, SD / Lifetime | Legend lifetime warranty against defects and internal leakage |
Standard Versus Heavy-Duty Springs and Ride Height Selection
A critical decision when configuring Legend Revo-A shocks is selecting between Standard and Heavy Duty (HD) spring rate packages. Legend Suspensions recommends the Standard spring rate for solo riders weighing under 250 pounds who only occasionally carry light luggage or a passenger. Over-springing a lightweight rider with Heavy Duty coils results in an excessively stiff, jarring ride that fails to utilize the shock's full travel stroke.
Conversely, the Heavy Duty spring rate is engineered for solo riders weighing over 250 pounds, or riders who consistently travel two-up with a passenger and loaded saddlebags weighing 250 to 500+ pounds combined. In terms of shock length, upgrading from factory 12-inch shocks to 13-inch Revo-A shocks is widely regarded as the ultimate improvement for Harley Touring models (Street Glide, Road Glide, Electra Glide), as the extra inch delivers significant suspension travel and increases aggressive cornering lean angles.
Review spring rate selection criteria based on total rider, passenger, and luggage weight profiles:
| Total Combined Weight | Recommended Spring Rate | Rebound Dial Starting Point | Recommended Shock Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo Rider Under 200 lbs | Standard Spring | Position 2 or 3 | 13-Inch (for optimal travel) |
| Solo Rider 200 to 250 lbs | Standard Spring | Position 3 or 4 | 13-Inch (plush touring stroke) |
| Solo Rider 250+ lbs | Heavy Duty (HD) Spring | Position 3 or 4 | 13-Inch or 14-Inch |
| Rider + Passenger (300–400 lbs) | Heavy Duty (HD) Spring | Position 4 or 5 | 13-Inch (maximum bottom-out resistance) |
| Rider + Passenger + Luggage (400+ lbs) | Heavy Duty (HD) Spring | Position 5 or 6 | 13-Inch or 14-Inch heavy touring |
Riders consistently report that the additional suspension stroke transforms bumpy highways into smooth, fatigue-free journeys.
Installation Protocols, Sag Tuning, and Rebound Calibration
Installing Legend Revo-A shocks is a straightforward bolt-on upgrade that can be accomplished in a home garage using standard hand tools and a motorcycle center lift. Crucially, before torquing mounting bolts to factory specifications, installers must check shock alignment using provided spherical bearing shims to ensure the shock bodies mount completely plumb without binding or lateral misalignment against swingarm mounts.
Setting static rider sag is the most vital step to unlocking the Revo-A's performance capabilities. With the rider seated in full riding gear on the motorcycle, sag should compress the shock by exactly one-half to three-quarters of an inch from full extension. Adjusting the threaded preload collar by hand easily sets this baseline. Once sag is established, setting the external rebound knob between positions 3 and 4 provides a balanced, controlled baseline that eliminates freeway hop.
How to Install and Dial In Legend Revo-A Shocks in 5 Steps
Follow these five certified motorcycle suspension tuning steps to mount, set sag, and calibrate your Revo-A shocks.
Support Motorcycle on Center Jack
Lift the motorcycle so the rear wheel is slightly off the ground, relieving all suspension tension from the swingarm.
Remove Stock Shocks and Clean Mounts
Unbolt OEM shocks, inspect mounting studs, and install provided spherical bearing spacer shims cleanly.
Install Revo-A Shocks and Torque Bolts
Mount the Revo-A shocks with rebound adjustment dials facing forward or outward, torquing bolts to factory Harley specs.
Measure and Set Static Rider Sag
Sit on the motorcycle with full riding gear and adjust the threaded preload collar until the shock compresses 0.5 to 0.75 inches.
Calibrate External Rebound Damping
Turn both lower rebound dials to position 3 or 4 for initial road testing, increasing clicks if the bike feels bouncy.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: What makes Legend Revo-A shocks different from standard Revo shocks?
Revo-A shocks feature an external 6-position or 7-position rebound damping adjustment knob, whereas standard Revo shocks have fixed internal rebound damping.
Q2: Should I get Standard or Heavy Duty Legend Revo-A shocks?
Choose Standard if total rider and gear weight is under 250 lbs; choose Heavy Duty if total combined rider, passenger, and luggage weight exceeds 250 lbs.
Q3: Does upgrading from 12-inch to 13-inch shocks raise seat height significantly?
A 13-inch shock raises the unladen seat height by approximately 0.75 inches, but once proper sag is set under rider weight, the practical height difference is minimal.
Q4: Can you adjust Legend Revo-A preload without tools?
Yes, the threaded aluminum preload collars are specifically engineered to be adjusted easily by hand without needing spanner wrenches.
Q5: Where are Legend Suspensions products manufactured?
Legend Suspensions products are designed, machined, and assembled in Sturgis, South Dakota, USA, backed by a comprehensive lifetime warranty.
Q6: How does setting rebound damping affect ride quality?
Lower rebound settings allow the wheel to extend rapidly for soft cruising, while higher settings slow rebound to control pogo bouncing on aggressive turns.
Q7: Do Legend Revo-A shocks eliminate bottoming out?
Yes, the progressive-rate coil springs combined with velocity-sensitive deflective disc valving prevent bottoming out on harsh road bumps.
Q8: Are Legend Revo-A shocks rebuildable?
Yes, Legend Revo-A shocks feature completely rebuildable internal components and nitrogen gas charges that can be factory-serviced.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding legend revo a shocks provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.