U.S. Patent Pending
Harley Softails were designed to give the appearance of a rigid frame, while still offering suspension. However, if you would like to build a custom, rigid chopper using an inexpensive 1984-1999 Softail (FLST, FXST, etc.), this kit offers an easy solution. For great info on how to build a cool custom Softail be sure to check out our
Should Your Next Harley Be An Evo Softail? blog article!
- Complete Kit To Make A 1984-1999 Softail Frame Rigid
- TIG-welded Steel Struts To Replace Stock Shocks
- Grade 8 Hardened Mounting Hardware
- Machined Aluminum Stops Are Adjustable To Safely & Rigidly Lock Swingarm
- Made in the USA
Our Softail rigid struts are TIG-welded, and also included is the necessary Grade 8, hardened hardware for mounting them. The overall strut length is 12-1/4", and center-to-center for the eyes (mounting holes) measures 11-1/4". Replacing the shocks with struts is not enough. This in itself makes the shear strength of the mounting bolts take the entire load of the swingarm (which is still on a pivot despite the rigid struts). Our innovative kit includes machined aluminum spacers with rubber bumpers (that are higher quality than stock) and shim washers to properly lock the swingarm in place. The shims are necessary due to the loose tolerances from the Harley factory that we found when checking over multiple Softail frames. Our safe and secure design makes for a quick & easy install that you never have to adjust again.
The benefit to making a Softail rigid is that you can do the rest of the fabrication as if it was a complete hardtail frame. Since the rear wheel doesn't have suspension anymore, and doesn't compress toward the seat, everything can be mounted with tighter clearance. Tabs, fender struts, and all other components can be welded to the stock frame rails. An alternative is to drop the stock Softail engine and Transmission into a
Gasbox Harley Big Twin 5 Speed Full Rigid Frame.
