Rear Shock Absorber - HD 146

Item Summary S36E type 360.5mm length 105mm stroke 00480-01 (B) fitted spring About the Product hlins STX 36 Twin Rear Shock Set 360.5 mm for Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Product Overview The hlins STX 36 Twin Rear Shock Set (HD 146) is a premium suspension upgrade engineered specifically for Harley-Davidson Sportster XL models equipped with 360.5 mm (14.2-inch) rear shocks. Developed using decades of championship-winning suspension technology, the STX 36 delivers exceptional ride quality, improved chassis stability, and superior rear-wheel control while preserving the classic twin-shock appearance of the Sportster platform. Designed for riders who demand more from their motorcycle, these shocks provide significantly improved comfort during everyday cruising while offering the precise damping characteristics needed for spirited canyon riding and aggressive cornering. The result is a more planted, confidence-inspiring motorcycle with enhanced traction and reduced rider fatigue. Key Features Genuine hlins STX 36 Twin Rear Shock Set hlins Part Number: HD 146 Designed specifically for Harley-Davidson Sportster XL models 360.5 mm eye-to-eye length STX (Single Tube Technology) monotube construction 36 mm piston diameter High-pressure nitrogen gas charged Emulsion-type hydraulic damping system (S36E) Progressive-rate springs Adjustable spring preload Precision-machined aluminum construction Fully rebuildable and serviceable Manufactured in Sweden STX 36 Suspension Technology The STX 36 utilizes Single Tube Technology (STX), featuring a large 36 mm piston operating within a high-pressure gas-charged monotube body. This architecture minimizes oil aeration while maintaining stable damping characteristics under a wide range of riding conditions. Compared to conventional OEM suspension, the STX 36 offers: More consistent damping performance Reduced suspension fade Improved hydraulic response Enhanced small-bump compliance Increased rear tire contact Greater chassis stability Improved rider feedback The monotube design efficiently dissipates heat, maintaining predictable suspension behavior during long rides and aggressive use. Emulsion-Type Damping System (S36E) The S36E configuration combines a 36 mm piston with an emulsion-type damping system that integrates gas and hydraulic oil within a single chamber. This proven design offers: Smooth damping characteristics Compact construction Reduced weight Excellent reliability Low maintenance requirements Outstanding ride comfort for street applications The S36E platform has become one of hlins' most successful twin-shock designs and is widely respected for its durability and balanced performance across cruisers, caf racers, and custom motorcycles. Progressive Spring Performance The supplied progressive-rate springs provide a compliant initial response over small road imperfections while increasing support as suspension loads rise. Benefits include: Improved ride comfort Better support during acceleration Enhanced stability while cornering Reduced bottoming under heavy loads Improved passenger and touring capability Greater confidence over uneven pavement This progressive spring characteristic allows the motorcycle to remain comfortable during relaxed cruising while maintaining excellent chassis control during spirited riding. Adjustable Spring Preload Threaded spring preload adjustment allows the suspension to be tailored for different rider weights and riding conditions. Proper preload adjustment contributes to: Correct rider sag Balanced chassis geometry Improved steering response Increased ground clearance Better braking stability Enhanced handling precision Optimizing preload ensures that the suspension operates within its intended working range, maximizing both comfort and performance. Premium Engineering Every hlins STX 36 shock absorber is manufactured using premium materials and precision machining processes developed through decades of professional motorsport competition. Construction features include: CNC-machined aluminum shock bodies Hard-anodized corrosion-resistant surfaces Precision-ground piston rods Low-friction seal head assemblies High-quality hydraulic oil Precision shim-stack valving Replaceable internal wear components The fully rebuildable design allows the shocks to be serviced and restored to original performance, providing exceptional long-term value and reliability. Performance Benefits Improved Ride Comfort The advanced damping system absorbs road imperfections more effectively than stock suspension, reducing harsh impacts and improving long-distance comfort. Enhanced Chassis Stability Better hydraulic control minimizes unwanted suspension movement, resulting in a more composed motorcycle during acceleration, braking, and cornering. Increased Rear Tire Grip Consistent damping keeps the rear tire in contact with the pavement, improving traction and rider confidence across varying road conditions. More Predictable Handling The motorcycle responds more accurately to rider input with smoother weight transfer and improved stability through corners. Reduced Rider Fatigue Improved suspension compliance and controlled damping reduce vibration and impact loads, allowing riders to remain comfortable over extended distances. Technical Specifications Specification Details Manufacturer hlins Racing Part Number HD 146 Product Series STX 36 Twin Type Code S36E Configuration Twin Rear Shock Set Shock Type Monotube Emulsion Piston Diameter 36 mm Length 360.5 mm Stroke 98 mm Mounting Position Rear Spring Type Progressive Spring Rate 1524 N/mm Serviceable Fully Rebuildable Packaging Pair Fitment Designed for Harley-Davidson Sportster XL models (20042022) equipped with 360.5 mm rear shocks, including: XL883 XL883 Custom XL883 Iron XL883 Roadster XL1200 Custom XL1200 Forty-Eight XL1200 Iron XL1200 Nightster XL1200 Low XL1200 Roadster XL1200 Seventy-Two Additional Sportster variants utilizing the 360.5 mm OEM shock length Always verify your motorcycle's original shock length before ordering, as Sportster models were available with multiple ride-height configurations. Installation The hlins STX 36 Twin Rear Shock Set is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement utilizing the factory mounting locations. Professional installation is recommended to ensure: Correct installation torque Proper rider sag adjustment Optimized spring preload Balanced chassis geometry Maximum suspension performance Following installation, preload should be adjusted according to rider weight and intended use for optimal handling characteristics. Service and Maintenance Like all premium hlins suspension products, the STX 36 Twin shocks are fully rebuildable and designed for decades of service. Routine maintenance includes replacement of hydraulic oil, seals, bushings, and wear components, restoring factory-level damping performance. Regular servicing ensures: Consistent ride quality Long component life Maximum suspension performance Reliable operation under all riding conditions Why Choose hlins? Hlins Racing has been a global leader in suspension technology for nearly 50 years, supplying championship-winning teams in MotoGP, World Superbike, Endurance Racing, Motocross, and numerous other professional racing disciplines. Every street suspension product incorporates the same engineering philosophy developed through competition, providing riders with exceptional control, comfort, and precision. For Harley-Davidson Sportster owners seeking a substantial improvement in handling, ride quality, and overall riding confidence while retaining the iconic twin-shock styling, the hlins STX 36 Twin Rear Shock Set HD 146 (360.5 mm) represents one of the finest suspension upgrades available.