Harley Touring 49mm GRIP ST Fork Cartridge Setup Guide

Quick Answer

Set up your Harley-Davidson Touring with the 49mm GRIP ST fork cartridge by following a careful installation process, then tune compression and rebound using the tool-free top caps to match your riding style.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Prepare Your Bike: Secure the motorcycle on a lift or stand so the front wheel is off the ground. Remove the front wheel and fender to access the fork tubes. Loosen the triple clamp bolts gradually to avoid stress. Check that the bike is stable before loosening any bolts.
2. Remove the Stock Fork Internals: Carefully disassemble the fork tubes, keeping track of all components and their order. Drain the old fork oil and inspect the tubes for wear or damage. Clean all parts thoroughly. Use a clean work area to avoid contaminating the new cartridge.
3. Install the GRIP ST Cartridge: Insert the GRIP ST cartridge into the fork tube following the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the cartridge sits correctly and is fully seated. Reassemble the fork with the recommended oil level and torque specs. Double-check that the cartridge is oriented correctly before reassembly.
4. Reinstall the Forks and Set Sag: Reinstall the fork tubes and torque the triple clamps to spec. Set the sag according to your weight and riding style, using the ride height options if available. This step is critical for proper handling. A sag measurement that is too high or low will affect both comfort and cornering.
5. Adjust Compression and Rebound: Use the top caps to set compression and rebound to your preferred position. Start with a middle setting and test ride. Adjust one click at a time until the fork feels balanced and controlled. Make small adjustments and test ride after each change for best results.

Product Spotlight

• Harley-Davidson Touring | 49mm GRIP ST Fork Cartridge: The GRIP ST offers three-position compression and rebound adjustments on the top caps, allowing tool-free on-the-fly tuning. You can quickly switch between comfort and sport settings without stopping or carrying tools, ideal for varying road conditions.