RoadMaster

The RoadMaster is different than the RoadWing but solves the same problem by replacing the stock shock. Since the GL1800 shock we use for the RoadWing is becoming less attainable,  Kris Koehler did a lot of research and development and created the RoadMaster.

The RoadMaster is built from a used shock off a 2018+ Harley Davidson Softail and a used spring from the Honda Goldwing GL1800. The spring on the Harley is too soft and the shock requires machining in order to accomodate the shorter GL1800 spring. The spring is compressed at a higher rate, which provides the support and comfort needed to restore your bike to ideal riding condition.

Main Differences:

• • The RoadMaster is a little longer so it will raise the height of your Road Star slightly.
  • The RoadMaster offers about 2mm less travel than the RoadWing
  • The damper on the RoadMaster is not as stiff as the RoadWing.

I recommend the RoadMaster for riders who are only rides solo and are under 275 lbs and riders who are under 250 lbs. and mostly ride solo. It is ideal for riders who are under 200 lbs. and ride solo about 50% of the time.  Upgrading to a new linear spring will increase those numbers by about 25 lbs. but will offer longevity. I need to do more testing with the progressive spring before I can recommend it.

Kris had several Road Star owners install and test the RoadMaster with great success. Kris tested the RoadMaster himself as well. I tested the RoadMaster for about 1500 miles. I am about 290 lbs. and the RoadMaster provided similar support to the Road Star. I found it to be a much softer ride but the support was comparable to the RoadWing. I had to add pre-load when my wife rode with me. I tested it with a new linear spring as well, which stiffened up the ride a little but it was still comfortable and supportive. You can read reviews at this link.

Kris has communicated that you cannot use the RoadMaster on a bike that is lowered in any way. The RoadWing is a better option on a lowered bike.

In my opinion and based on my personal experience, the RoadMaster is best suited for solo riders who are under 275 lbs. or mostly solo riders who are under 250 lbs. A new linear spring will add longevity to your shock.

There are two types of RoadMaster shocks in production:

• • RoadMaster – Employs an adjustable pre-load. The pre-load is set before it is installed on the bike. The shock would need to be removed to make any adjustments to the pre-load. Kris will work with you to determine the pre-load prior to install. The version is only built and sold by Kris.
  • RoadMaster Delux – Employs a Remote adjustable pre-load. Just like the RoadWing, the RoadMaster Delux allows you to adjust the pre-load without having to remove the shock. This version is built and sold by Kris and myself (Bill Kingsley). Kris offers the manual RAP adjuster version and I offer both the manual and electric RAP adjuster version.

Install is the same as the RoadWing and may require grinding your relay arm. The mounting fork on the RoadMaster is a little wider so a new bolt, nut and washers are provided for install. It is always a good idea to keep your stock mounting bolt and nut.

Let us know if you have any questions.

Feel free to reach out to Kris to request a RoadMaster from him or use my form to order a RoadMaster Delux from me.