A client from here in Salina recently visited Nu Image Audio to talk about installing several 2017 Harley-Davidson Street Glide upgrades. The client wanted an air suspension system. He was also interested in a new radio. After inspecting the motorcycle and doing some research, we can up with awesome solutions that would make this one of the coolest Harleys on the road.
Dirty Air El Grande Air Suspension
We based the air suspension around a Dirty Air El Grande kit from Dirtyworks in Kansas City. We specified a concealed right-side tank that fits between the rear wheel and the saddlebag and a mount for the VIAIR compressor that fits on the other side. The kit includes two rear shocks with integrated airbags and fittings for the front triple-tree.
We ran 1/4- and 5/32-inch tubing to ensure the system would raise and lower the bike smoothly. We always install a safety valve on our air suspension systems to ensure that the bike cannot be lifted without the awareness of the operator. We’ve seen many cases where people who are unfamiliar with the system operate the compressor and cause bikes to fall over. That unfortunate scenario is impossible with a system installed by us.
Air Ride Control and Monitoring System
The client asked for handlebar-mounted controls for the suspension system. Dirtyworks makes weather-resistant switches that fit perfectly. We wired the switches, solenoid and compressor the same way we do all of our wiring – every connection is soldered to ensure it’s 100% reliable and completely stealth. We even wrapped the wiring in Harley-specific cloth tape for a factory-installed look.
Custom Air Pressure Monitoring System
As part of the upgrade, we installed a Sony XAV-AX5000 multimedia receiver in the dash of the Harley. This radio features a large 6.95-inch touchscreen display. It includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. We added a custom pressure monitoring system to the radio so that the client can see the front and rear tire pressures (right side) and the pressure in the air system on the left.
Harley-Davidson Kick Stand Replacement
The last piece of the project was to add an MRI motorized center stand to the bike. This twin-post stand replaces the conventional kickstand. When activated, two posts motorize down under the bike and the client can lower the suspension so the bike sits vertically.
Harley-Davidson Street Glide Upgrades
After several days of work, all of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide upgrades were installed and tested. The client returned to Nu Image Audio to check it out. He loved the way the suspension worked and was thrilled with our attention to detail on the installation. If you are looking accessories for your Harley, drop by our store in Salina or send us an e-mail using our contact page.