There's no debate: Our bodies need protein to function. But in recent years, popular weight-loss plans have spotlighted this nutrient as the most important part of your diet. So what's the deal? While there's no magic pill for weight loss or overall health, high-protein foods should be an essential component of your daily meals and snacks, explains Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, head of nutrition and wellness at WW. "By eating protein consistently throughout your day, you're automatically making more satisfying food choices that will help you feel energized and stay fuller, longer—which may also help minimize between-meal grazing," she says.
We tapped WW's nutrition experts to shed more light on why protein is so important, how it relates to weight management, and some of the best sources of protein. Here's the lowdown on 15 protein-rich foods, plus 43 delicious recipes to try:
The importance of protein-rich foods
Proteins are one of three macronutrients (along with carbohydrates and fats) that our bodies need to work, explains Angela Goscilo, MS, RD, CDN, nutrition manager at WW. "These provide us with energy and serve as building blocks for muscles and tissues," she adds. Simply put, protein helps power nearly every system in the body—from strengthening bones, muscles, and cartilage to helping cell tissues repair and regenerate.
High-protein foods are so important because they contain essential amino acids that our bodies rely on—and can only get from food. Protein itself is made of 20 amino acids, and while the human body can produce 11 of these on its own, the remaining nine must come from our diets. Not to mention, many protein-rich foods also contain other key nutrients, such as B vitamins (like niacin, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and riboflavin), selenium, choline, phosphorus, zinc, copper, vitamin D, vitamin A, and vitamin E, depending on the food.
While our bodies need micronutrients like vitamins and minerals in smaller amounts, protein is something we need in larger quantities. Here's where things get a little tricky: There's no one-size-fits-all recommendation on how many grams of protein you should eat. (This is why you won't see a percent daily value for protein on nutrition facts labels.) The current recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kg of bodyweight—just over 7 grams of protein per 20 pounds. Meaning? A person who weighs 150 pounds needs about 55 grams protein per day. That said, most of us are consuming more protein than our baseline needs, according to London. "So as a dietitian, I'd rather you focus on eating various protein-containing food rather than the nutrient itself," she adds.
Which foods are high in protein?
When you think of protein-rich foods, you likely picture meat and other animal products. And you're right! But while red meat, poultry, and eggs are good sources of protein—meaning they are complete proteins that contain all nine amino acids our bodies need from food—they're not the only ones.
Plant-based proteins are great additions to any diet—regardless of whether you're vegan or vegetarian. Research suggests that replacing some animal proteins with plant-based sources could have positive health benefits: A 2019 study published in the Journal of the American College Of Cardiology linked the consumption of a mostly plant-based diet to a 41% lower risk of developing heart failure. Meanwhile, a 2014 meta-analysis of 37 studies published in JAMA Internal Medicine linked vegetarian, vegan, or semi-vegetarian diets (i.e., when you eat some meat, eggs, fish, or dairy) with lower blood pressure. Most plant-based sources don't contain all nine essential amino acids, but there's a simple solution: Eat a variety!
The most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends aiming for five and a half 1-ounce servings (or equivalent) of protein per day. What does that look like? One small steak is about 4 ounces, a can of tuna is 3-4 ounces, three eggs (whites and yolks) clock in at 3 ounces, and ¼ cup of cooked beans, chickpeas, or lentils is equal to a 1-oz serving.
Regardless of your eating style, there are so many delicious (and surprising!) protein-rich foods to add to your diet. Check out some of the best sources of protein:
The best sources of protein (per 100-gram serving)
Chicken breast
31 g
Ground beef
20 g
Salmon
19 g
Canned tuna
19 g
Shrimp
24 g
Eggs
12 g
Whole milk
3 g
Part-skim mozzarella
24 g
Low-sodium cottage cheese
12 g
Parmesan
36 g
Greek yogurt
10 g
Lentils
9 g
Chickpeas
8 g
Peanuts
26 g
Edamame
12 g
Pumpkin seeds
19 g
Hemp seeds
32 g
1. Chicken breast
Chicken is a staple in many diets and for good reason! It's a great source of protein, lower in saturated fat than some red and processed meats, and it packs a nutrient-dense mix of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. For the leanest cut with the most protein, opt for grilled skinless chicken breast or skinless rotisserie chicken breast—one 3-oz serving delivers 26 grams of protein and 2.7 grams of saturated fat. You'll also get key nutrients like selenium (which supports the immune system) and choline, which plays a role in memory, mood, muscle control, and heart health.
Try chicken breasts in:
4. Tuna
Canned tuna is a great source of vitamin D and omega-3's, and as a shelf-stable lean protein source, it can't be beat for convenience! One 3-oz serving of tuna in water (half a can) delivers around 16 grams of protein. You'll also get other key nutrients, including potassium, selenium, and calcium. Canned tuna can often get a bad rep because of mercury concerns, but this mostly applies to white (albacore) tuna. That said, the FDA recommends limiting this type to 6 ounces per week or about one can, but light tuna and other types of canned, fresh, or frozen seafood can all help you get closer to the goal of at least 8 ounces of fish per week.
Try tuna in:
10. Lentils
Lentils are part of the powerhouse food group known as pulses—the dry, edible seed of beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas. Pulses aren't just great sources of plant-based protein: They're packed with fiber, minerals, and B vitamins. Nutritionally, ½ cup serving of cooked lentils provides 8 grams of protein. Eating lentils (and other pulses) as a part of a healthy pattern of eating has been linked to reducing risk of chronic disease, such as heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and some cancers.
Try lentils in:
Other sources of protein
While most of us can hit our protein goals through whole-food sources, there are some scenarios where protein powders or other protein-enriched foods can be useful. People starting an intense endurance- or strength-training program, recovering from surgery, or dealing with other health issues may need to boost their protein intake, says London. In these situations, be sure to talk with your health care provider to create a personalized nutrition plan.
That said, there may also be more in-the-moment times where you need some extra help on the protein front. On busy mornings where you barely have time to brush your teeth let alone cook breakfast, WW's protein-packed lattes can be a great solution. Each 8-oz can provides 11 g of protein (from milk and milk protein isolate) and 20% of the Daily Value for calcium—making them convenient and nutritious breakfast additions. Ultimately, all foods are on the menu and WW members should do what works for them, which could include using a protein powder or protein-enhanced drinks, says Goscilo.
High-protein foods and weight loss
High-protein foods can be helpful when it comes to weight loss because of protein's effect on satiety, i.e., how full and satisfied you feel after eating. Research suggests that protein is the most filling macronutrient, followed by carbs and then fat. Plus, the body uses more calories to digest protein: "It takes more work to break protein into smaller amino acids that can be absorbed," Goscilo explains. While additional research is needed to determine exactly how this process helps you feel fuller, longer, it does. That means you may be less likely to eat between meals.
Ultimately, there's no ideal macronutrient profile for weight loss, but eating protein-rich foods may also help preserve muscle mass during your weight-loss journey. Muscle is lost on most weight-loss programs; however, according to a 2013 study, higher protein intake helps preserve lean body mass. Research also suggests that it may be better for muscle health to consume a moderate amount of protein at each meal throughout the day rather than packing the entire goal amount into one.
Popular high-protein diets
In the average diet of an otherwise healthy person, protein can account for 10–35% of daily calories, according to the Institute of Medicine. This wide range means there's conflicting opinions on what exactly constitutes a high-protein diet. However, the upper limit of protein intake is more clear: A 2006 review in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism defines excessive protein intake as anything above 35% of daily calories, and suggests it could lead to potential health risks like increased insulin levels, digestion issues, and more. The same study links a plan where 25% of calories come from protein to weight loss—without potential risks of overconsumption.
The majority of protein-focused diets are also low-carb, and weight-loss plans touting the benefits of this approach have been around for decades. (The Atkins diet, for instance, was first developed in the 1960s.) While the recommended carb amounts differ, they typically call for eating less than 45–65% of daily calories from carbohydrates. Research has found low-carb diets effective for weight loss, but since these plans can be restrictive, people may find them difficult to adhere to long-term. Plus, a 2012 clinical trial published in Physiology & Behavior found that the success of these programs depends on the high-protein element, not the low-carb one.
Here's the lowdown on other popular high-protein diet plans:
Ketogenic diet: Also known as "keto," this program is often grouped in with high-protein diets, but it's actually more of a high-fat diet. The standard ketogenic diet recommends 70% calories come from fat, 20% from protein, and 10% from carbs.
Paleo diet: This plan takes inspiration from our prehistoric ancestors and relies on foods presumed to be available during the Stone Age. You'll get protein from lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds. Fruit, vegetables, and herbs are allowed, but the diet nixes other protein-rich foods like dairy, grains, beans, and legumes.
Zone Diet: Originally developed to reduce inflammation, this program recommends that you get 30% of daily calories from protein, 40% from carbs, and 30% from fats.
Carnivore diet: Like its name suggests, this diet instructs you to eat only animal products. Meat, poultry, eggs, and certain dairy products are permitted, but that's where the list ends. Unlike the other plans that recommend a lower carb intake, this one (backed by no scientific studies) aims for zero carbs.
How you build your plate on any high-protein diet is critical since some of the more restrictive eating plans could have negative health implications. For instance, opt for protein-rich foods that are too high in fat, and you may experience nausea, diarrhea, and other unpleasant side effects. On the other hand, replace too many nutrient- and fiber-rich foods (like fruit, veggies, and whole-grains) with high-protein ones in an effort to limit carbs and you could deal with constipation or micronutrient deficiencies.
"Any attempt to omit entire food groups or limit intake of a specific food group or category of nutrients comes at the cost of your long-term health," London says. "An approach to weight loss that, by design, limits your intake of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet like veggies and fruit can come with adverse physiological and biochemical side effects, which may make losing and maintaining weight even more difficult."
The bottom line: Are you eating enough high-protein foods?
In this case, the better question might be are you eating enough types of protein-rich foods? After all, according to a 2018 analysis published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, most adults exceed the recommended intake of protein—consuming an average of 88 grams a day. As we said before, there's no one-size-fits-all recommended protein intake. But for comparison, most women need around 46 grams of protein per day, and men need 56 grams, according to the USDA's recent dietary guidelines. You may be getting enough of the macronutrient, not all sources are created equal—proteins can be lean or high in saturated fats.
Case in point: The amount of protein in a pork chop and piece of salmon are similar, but the pork has more than three times the saturated fat. Similarly, beef and certain cheeses are typically higher in saturated fat, which can raise bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and have been linked to increased risk of heart disease or stroke. Current guidelines recommend limiting saturated fat intake, but that doesn't mean you have to revamp your entire eating style. Instead, consider incorporating more healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) found in nuts, seeds, and seafood to your diet.
Fats can be part of a healthy pattern of eating, along with various protein sources. It's all about finding a balance, London says. Try adding more plant-based and lean protein sources into your diet by designating one meatless meal a day, swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken the next time you make chili, or opting for seafood a couple nights a week.
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Nicole Saporita is a senior content manager for consumer wellness at WW. A writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York, she specializes in health & wellness, lifestyle, consumer products, and more. Her work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Prevention, and REDBOOK magazines.
Weight Watchers bases its diet program around a calculated points system. Each and every food has a points value based on calories and nutrient content. For example, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter is five weight watchers points. Weight Watchers classifies peanut butter as a healthy source of fat. Peanut butter is in a variety of Weight Watchers' recipes and prepackaged foods. When you make your peanut butter selection be sure to check the labels and avoid options with added sugar.
Healthy Fat
Unsaturated fats are beneficial to the body, whereas, saturated and trans fats are a risk to your cardiovascular health. Weight Watchers recommends peanut butter because it provides heart healthy, monounsaturated fatty acids and a rich, nutty flavor. Your body needs essential fatty acids such as linoleic and linolenic acid to reduce inflammation and blood clotting. Fat also serves as a source of energy and insulation for your body. Healthy fats are crucial for proper brain development and function as well. Additionally, the fat in peanut butter supports your skin health and aids in your body's natural oil production that helps keeps your hair naturally moisturized. It also transports vitamins A, E, D and K through your bloodstream, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center Saturated fats, however, contribute to hardening of the arteries and cholesterol buildup. Saturated fats should be limited to 7 percent of your daily calorie intake, and trans-fats should comprise no more than 1 percent of your daily calorie intake, according to the American Heart Association.
Additional Health Benefits
Peanut butter has more benefits than just healthy fat. It provides minerals including potassium and phosphorus. It is also naturally low in sugar and carbohydrates, containing just under 3 grams of sugar and 6 grams of carbohydrates per 2-tablespoon serving. Weight Watchers promotes peanut butter because it is a widely available, versatile and healthy source of protein. Two tablespoons of peanut butter provides 8 grams of protein. Protein is present in every living cell in the human body and your body needs protein every day because it is not able to store it for long periods of time.
Options
Weight Watchers provides healthy recipes that contain peanut butter and you can prepare at home. The diet suggests options such as "No-Cook Asian Peanut Sauce" to drizzle on whole wheat noodles or you can use it as a salad dressing. Other recipes that implement peanut butter include Senegalese Peanut Stew with Spinach and Sweet Potatoes, Moroccan Vegetable Couscous, and Vietnamese Shrimp Potstickers. If you want to add some peanut butter to your morning breakfast try their Peanut Butter Whole-Wheat Muffins. One muffin is five Weight Watchers points. This recipe calls for whole-wheat flour, baking powder,all-purpose flour, salt, eggs, light brown sugar, crunchy natural peanut butter, sugar-free applesauce, canola oil, fat-free milk and vanilla extract. Just be sure to avoid peanut butter that contains partially-hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils because they contain trans fat.
Alternatives
Many people are allergic to peanuts and peanut butter, so Weight Watchers provides alternative nut butters. They recommend cashew butter because it provides monounsaturated fats and contains oleic acid that supports heart health. Almond butter is another Weight Watcher's favorite in the nut butter department because it supplies healthy fatty acids along with fiber, potassium, protein, vitamin E, calcium and magnesium. Weight Watchers recommends additional spreads, including nut butters made from soynuts, sunflower seeds, macadamias, pecans and pumpkin seeds.
Everyone eventually has to deal with a little belly fat — even those of us who naturally had flat stomachs in our younger years. But too much of this type of tissue can have a negative effect on your health. But how much is too much? That depends on several factors, but experts agree that if you're a woman with a waist circumference of 35 inches or more or a man with a waist measuring 40 inches or more, you're vulnerable to the dangers of belly fat.
It's not just about the way your jeans fit. Excess abdominal fat increases your odds of developing some serious diseases, including diabetes, dementia, heart disease and cancer. Want to tip the scales toward better health and a smaller waistline? Try these healthy techniques to help banish belly fat and get fitter.
Have you heard the saying "Great abs are made in the kitchen?" It's true — what you eat really matters. And that certainly applies to taking a healthy approach to losing belly fat. For starters, it helps to know what to eat — and what to avoid. Skip high-sugar foods and drinks. Take a hard pass on anything with high fructose corn syrup, chuck trans-fats from your pantry and limit your intake of processed white-flour breads and pastas. All of these foods can contribute to gaining belly fat.
Photo Courtesy: M_a_y_a/Getty Images
Instead, load up on fiber-rich foods; these can help you feel full longer by stabilizing hunger hormones so you don't want to eat as often. Whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits are all good sources of soluble fiber, your belly fat-fighting sidekick. High-protein foods, including fish, chicken, eggs and dairy, have also been shown to reduce belly fat gain. They can help keep you feeling full and boost your metabolism, too. Good-for-you fats like olive oil and avocados also contribute to satiety, meaning you'll stay full and, as a result, eat less.
Get Moving to Get Losing
There's no single exercise that can blast away belly fat. Experts agree that spot reduction, such as doing hundreds of daily situps and crunches to slim your waist, isn't the best or healthiest way to get the job done. You'll likely end up with rock-hard abs under a layer of pudge. Instead, look for workouts that combine strength training, cardio and core work to reduce body fat and whittle your middle. As an added bonus, regular exercise can lower your blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation and improve the metabolism issues associated with carrying excess belly fat.
Photo Courtesy: Diego Lezama/Getty Images
Even if you're new to fitness, you can start where you are. Go for a walk, hop on a stationary bike — just get moving. Running, walking, swimming and bicycling are all good ways to get your heart pumping. Start building fitness into your daily routine to make a habit of it. For example, you can start walking on your lunch breaks at work, or hop on the treadmill while your favorite TV show is airing. The less you have to go out of your way to get workouts in initially, the easier it'll be for you to make fitness a lifelong health-boosting habit and reach a healthy weight.
Lose the Lifestyle Limitations for Lasting Losses
Diet and exercise are important, but they're not the only things you need to address to shed stubborn belly fat. Reducing your alcohol intake, for example, is one beneficial adjustment you can make. Excessive alcohol consumption not only makes it easier to pack on pounds (it's all empty calories), but it also can damage your liver, increase your odds of developing health problems and increase inflammation. Alcohol has also been linked to suppressing your body's natural fat-burning abilities.
Photo Courtesy: PeopleImages/Getty Images
Other healthy changes to make include drinking more water every day, which can boost your metabolism and help flush toxins from your body. Reducing your stress levels is another key step. Stress is linked to higher levels of the hormone cortisol, which can cause your body to hold onto fat in your abdomen.
Lastly, make sure you prioritize getting a good night's sleep — every night. In one recent study from the journal SLEEP, researchers found a clear link between the amount of sleep people get every night and the amount of weight they gain, particularly around their midsections. Short sleepers, who sleep fewer than five hours every night on average, are at the highest risk of gaining abdominal fat. So rest up to boost your chances of maintaining a healthy weight.
Mindy Grossman was only 14 years old when she was first introduced to Weight Watchers. At the time, she was a chubby Long Island teen who had one dream: to make the cheerleading team. But for that, she'd need to lose 10 pounds.
Her mother, who struggled with the scale her entire life, took her to a local Weight Watchers meeting. There, the staff weighed the young Grossman, asked her to monitor her daily calorie intake, and encouraged her week after week to keep at it.
"I was able to try out for the team—and I made it," Grossman recalls with pride, all these years later. "Part of it was losing the weight, but part of it was the confidence [Weight Watchers] gave me."
Mindy Grossman [Photo: courtesy of Weight Watchers]
Grossman kept that touch point—namely, what she describes as "the human emotion behind the brand"—when she took on the position of president and CEO of Weight Watchers International, Inc., in July this year. Her goal was to protect the company's legacy of a community support system, while ushering in a new era that would better appeal to new consumers who see weight as part of a larger picture.
In fact, upon accepting her new position,Grossman says that colleagues and friends kept asking her the same two questions: Are you going to change the name of the company? And will you keep the physical weekly meetings?
"I said, 'You're asking the wrong questions,'" Grossman tells Fast Company. Instead, she countered: What does the brand stand for? And what is the future articulation of the brand?
Weight Watchers, she reminded new employees and friends, comes with 54 years of history. American consumers view the weight loss brand as a credible, scientific company that delivers on its fuss-free promises. But at the same time, it's considered old-fashioned, one many associate as "their mother's" diet program. Not to mention, society moved beyond purely restricting calories—it's now all about health, wellness, and $30 yoga classes.
Related: DNA-Based Diet Advice Is Big Business With Little Scientific Support
Weight Watchers now competes against a host of companies, from weight loss apps like Lose It!, to fitness trackers like Fitbit, to fitness classes that have morphed into lifestyles like SoulCycle. As such, the iconic brand is on a mission to move toward a more holistic approach, while simultaneously convincing the public (and younger consumers) to look at them in a new light. This touches a multitude of products, including meetings, events, and content.
"It's not just about weight anymore," stresses Grossman. "People aspire to have the best life they have the way they can live it . . . Today, [consumers] want a lifestyle."
[Photo: courtesy of Weight Watchers]
Catering To A New Generation
The start of a new calendar year is typically Weight Watchers' highest-performing period—a time that delivers the most sign-ups by those eager to jumpstart their New Year's resolutions. But in January 2015, subscribers declined 20% year-over-year to 2.9 million, from 3.6 million in the first quarter of 2014. Deb Benovitz, senior vice president, global insights for Weight Watchers, quickly commissioned an investigative survey into the sudden drop.
The results were surprising. The unifying consumer response, as Benovitz recalls, was: "'You are a diet brand, and frankly, we are no longer willing to diet. We are seeking something that fits with our life.'"
Ironically, one of Weight Watchers' biggest selling points—and one that gave way to decades of success—was its unrestrictive, flexible approach to eating. Members are not commanded to eat certain foods, curb intake at certain hours, or simply consist on cabbage soup. Weight Watchers assigns foods specific points that one can eat a total of per day. That means you're not deprived of pizza, burgers, or pies, provided they're leveled out with lower-point (healthier/lower calorie) items. It was successful in part because unlike most diets, it didn't interfere with one's social life: There was no need to extricate yourself from family dinners or nights out.
Related: Cell Massages To Cryotherapy: Inside The "Biohacking" Gym Of The Future
But what the brand heard, loud and clear, was that the term "diet" was rife with negative connotations. It's a word that feels more reactive than proactive, and screams failure should they ever fall off course.
"If I look at my mother's generation, people would fix things that were broken," says Grossman. "Today's generation is more preventative; they want to live healthily. They want to educate themselves."
Members reported that even the language in weekly meetings was problematic, saying, "'Support is for weak people,'" reports Benovitz. "We are strong. We are warriors. What we want is inspiration—inspiration to keep this going . . . We want normalization.'"
What Weight Watchers found was that consumers wanted, more or less, a lifestyle brand. They want to eat better, move more, and feel zen about the entire process. They also wanted to do this all within a strong community that's both modern and accessible. And they'll spend money on it: Consumers (29% of millennials and 26% of gen X) are increasingly willing to pay more for foods and products that possess health benefits, according to a recent Nielsen report. Meanwhile, healthy categories within food, beverage, and personal care grew 7% over the last few years.
Benovitz says that consumers liked a lot of things about their program (like how easily it fit into their lifestyle), they just wanted it packaged in a new way. "We realized that if we talked about [Weight Watchers] differently and we upped certain things and played down other things, we would really be giving people pretty close to what they wanted," she explains.
[Photo: courtesy of Weight Watchers]
Farewell To The Diet
In 2015, Weight Watchers got to work shedding its old-fashioned image while beefing up what members appreciated most, which includes, among other things, Oprah Winfrey. The beloved celebrity signed on as a spokesperson and bought a 10% stake in the company, prompting a significant stock boost.
Shortly thereafter, the brand revealed its Beyond the Scale program, which brought its new "livable" philosophy to two more sectors: fitness and mind-set. It's an interconnected approach that incorporates equal amounts of movement, happiness, and meditation to one's weight loss goal. And instead of pure calorie counting, members were encouraged to pursue healthier eating choices with the new SmartPoints system, which focuses on lean protein, fruits, and vegetables while translating mind-bogglingly complex nutritional information into simple numbers assigned a value based on calories, saturated fat, sugar, and protein.
Their program is also affordable compared to other diets, such as NutriSystem ($298 for four weeks). The average monthly cost of a standard Weight Watchers membership, which includes unlimited monthly meetings and digital tools, is $44.95.
In 2015, Weight Watchers also launched what they hoped would be millennial bait: a digital community, called Connect, where for $19.95, members swap healthy living tips, recipes, and nudge one another to keep at it. (It looks a lot like Instagram, but with far more motivational quotes and pictures of Greek yogurt.) Instead of age or location, the community is gathered together by life stages: brides getting svelte for their weddings, retirees with more time on their hands, or new moms. Each member sets personalized goals that they work toward by tracking exercise, meals, and snacks.
"Where we do best for our members is where we intersect the area between science and consumer insights," says Gary Foster, PhD, chief scientific officer at Weight Watchers International, Inc.
Even the physical meetings received a nip and tuck. In years past, Weight Watchers staff weighed attendees and assigned them a weight loss goal. Now, the members dictate to the staff how much they want to lose, along with other life goals they hope to achieve. Some are weight-related—like sitting in an airplane without a seat extender—though many are psychological, such as "I want more confidence" or "I want to feel better about myself," says Benovitz.
In this era, physical interaction is a chief goal, especially in the age of "experiential" consumerism. A study by the Harris Group found that 72% of millennials prefer to spend money on experiences rather than material objects. And seeing how wellness travel is now a $563 billion global industry, and growing at double the rate of general travel sectors, Weight Watchers announced a host of experiences, such as wellness festivals, cruises, and other community-centered events.
Weight Watchers took the new strategy one step further, tweaking the logo—and even its name. The brand now goes by the abbreviated WW, a mark that harkens to its founding theme without directly reminding the public of its diet origins. The stacked WW in an orange coin logo is identifiable without alienating the consumer. (Although the logo was first introduced in 2012, it's become more prominently used in branded materials since the introduction of Beyond The Scale.)
For the last few years, Weight Watchers' core demographic has been 90% female, with an average age of 38. In the last year, however, they are experiencing growth in a younger demographic, such as women in their 20s and 30s.
"We need to be surprising yet familiar," explains Grossman, noting that while she wants to attract millennials, the product still needs to appeal to baby boomers.
[Photo: courtesy of Weight Watchers]
"Livability On Steroids"
So far, the changes have paid off. Revenue increased by 14% since last November to $324 million, and Weight Watchers saw its eighth consecutive quarter of member recruitment growth. It now boasts 1.3 million meeting members (an 11% year-over-year increase) and 2 million digital subscribers. Each month, over 1 million members visit Connect.
This month, Weight Watchers improves on its original SmartPoints program by launching an even more flexible program called WW Freestyle. It resembles its predecessor, but appoints zero points to 200 more foods, in addition to fruits and vegetables–none of these items need to be tracked. This includes turkey breast, seafood, corn, lentils, eggs, and peas. In addition, there are now "rollover points" in case one doesn't hit the daily allowance. Benovitz describes the latest program update as "livability on steroids."
"I've become obsessed with the word livable," says Grossman. "People want very simple things that fit into their life and social life."
So could one, in essence, consume an entire carton of fruit each day? Foster, who tested the new program for the last year, says zero-point foods propel members to add more nutritious items to their diet, with less time spent tracking–and very little risk factor.
"We've picked foods that are at low risk for overconsumption," explains Foster, adding, "very few people come to Weight Watchers saying, 'I really have a problem with strawberries.'"
Shaping Up For The Future
Weight Watchers concedes that dipping into the lifestyle market positions them in the same territory as countless fitness and food brands, including South Beach Diet and Diet.com, which delved into the sector years ago. Still, claims Grossman, their chief competitor remains people thinking they can do this themselves.
"People find that they need structure, tools, and support to be successful," she says. "They need a community."
Weight Watchers currently hosts 15,000 weekly meetings in the U.S. and 32,000 globally. They're held everywhere, from big, dense cities to remote locations in sparsely populated states like Wyoming.
Moving forward, the company wants to rapidly expand across the U.S., especially in the low-income communities often ignored in the health and wellness space. The plan is to aggressively partner with more community centers to bring their tools to the places that need it most. Approximately two-thirds of Americans are considered to be overweight or obese, and 80% do not meet the recommended amount of physical exercise, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Grossman considers Weight Watchers an "aspirationally accessible brand" with programs and platforms that can span across a diverse subset, no matter what the income, race, or locale.
"I've met billionaires who are on Weight Watchers, and I've met people on food stamps that were on Weight Watchers," says Grossman. "Wellness needs to be much more democratized and serve that many more people if we're really going to help solve the crisis that we're in right now."
Weight Watchers' mission is a bold one, and one that hasn't been this publicly addressed since Michelle Obama's Let's Move! campaign. The wellness scene, with all its attention to crystal healing, pricey food delivery startups, or boutique fitness classes, is often criticized for primarily catering to high-income women. As New York magazine declared, wellness is the new luxury lifestyle.
"We are the brand that can bring health and wellness to everyone, and not just a certain few," declares Grossman.
There are other opportunities for expansion, says Grossman. Currently, women make up the majority of members, making men a larger moving target. And while most Weight Watchers products involve food—including frozen dinners and a grocery store food-points scanner—the company will move into connected categories like kitchen and home. There's also "a tremendous need and opportunity" to expand their health solutions business both in the health and corporate space, says Grossman. "There's no lack of opportunities between those."
Weight Watchers is officially in a new era, one in which it sees itself becoming the brand that can boost Americans' health while also giving it a taste of that wellness lifestyle it very much aspires to. With that, expect everyone from Oprah to social media influencers asking you to "move beyond the scale"–but with food points as social currency. For Grossman, the challenge lies in how to be a brand that can work with a lot of different constituencies without turning off your retired mom.
"You can't say, 'I'm starting a movement,' it doesn't work," says Grossman. "You have to build something, and it builds upon itself and then becomes one, and that's what I hope we can do."
Went out for a small but fast ride with the Mrs on the back today it was around 50f so a little fresh but still enjoyable.
I love this style of motorcycle; having grown up like most of us screaming around on 2T dirt bikes I feel like I've come full circle and I'm back where I belong.
Upright wide bars, bucket loads of ground clearance, massive commitment in bends comes naturally. There's no thought of big bumps unsettling the chassis or running you wide with massive amounts of suspension travel, line corrections need no more than a thought and within minutes you find yourself pushing just as hard as you would on your good old faithful you've racked up countless hours and thousands of miles on. At times I wonder how the super sport has managed to make things so "difficult" and require a seemingly endless list of variables to be in order for them to find their sweet spot. Then again taming such beasts has it appeal as well. For just jumping on and riding her about 600km I'm very impressed but I really do need to make the time to set sag etc. The rear is soft and the front hard. I can get the rear pumping out of corners and a speed wobble while hard on the gas. All of this I'm confident I'll be able to sort with the fully adjustable Sachs clickers front and rear and DanQ's expertise.
Brake wise the modulation of the OE Brembo's & SS lines feels great. I like my brakes and like pushing then hard and these seem up to the task. Over all there's a definite drop in sheer grunt hopping off the R1 but a RCS19 and pad upgrade will no doubt make up the difference. I'm having a very low speed gremlin in the braking system that I'll hopefully sought out once I have the time to dig deeper.
The 90 degree, 4 valve/cyl, water cooled donk is a beautiful thing... once you open her up... part throttle and stop start traffic this thing is a PIG! She'll cough, splutter, pop and everything else she can think of to let you know how much she hates going slow. It sounds tough but its not all that fun. The hydraulic self adjusting clutch gets heavy, much heavier than the cable actuated clutch on the 5VY and the underseat exhaust.... yep you guess it! cooks your ass!! But open her up and it all changes, everything smoothes out, the cough and splutter becomes a smooth, deep howl that in the higher register could almost pass as a feisty single cylinder to my ears. Max torque of 60 ft. lb. is achieved at 4500 and max power of 92HP at 8750. There's a definite kick up top and she'll throw the front wheel a foot in the air in 2nd gear as max power kicks in, higher if you're not sitting front and center.
6 speed Gearbox is clunky at low speeds and like the motor smoothes out at speed and neutral takes some getting used to.
Fuel range is pathetic, I was hoping she'd do 200km (125mi) per tank so I can comfortably play with the "big" bikes but so far that looks like it will be a challenge. In mostly stop start traffic and quick runs up and down the freeway to and from work the fuel light is comming on at 120km (75mi) and haven't explored how far I can go with the light on yet. If I can get 150km that should do the trick.... or I'll be pushing!!
She's no light weight, 185kg dry (407lbs), but thanks to the Akra's that figure is already down to 178kg (392) and more coming off soon thanks for a Shorai and a few other bits nd bobs (ya'll know I can't help myself!). If I had the cash to mod the R1 and this I'd love to throw a set of Marchesini's at her (7kg/15lb loss) but sadly I don't think that will happen. I don't have wheels for the R1 yet and she will be first. :fact You could easily get 20kg/45lbs off her and she'd be completely bat shit thanks to it but at the end of the day she's a 'tard and in my eyes not worth that kind of dosh... she might slowly change my mind though lol.
If I don't piss her off for a Super Duke R I'll probably change the bars, resi's add a RCS (and possibly an RCS for the clutch also), full floaters and maybe even M4's if some were to pop up cheap. And I'll look into suspension options like racetech or similar. So far I haven't found anyone that's running a QS'er on these things (ECU isn't even fully cracked.. no fuel modules work properly, the ECU eventually overrides the adjustments :rant could really do with one big time) but I'd love a stand alone QS'er and I'm sure I'd nut out how to fit one up.
Oh there are three stupid "modes" too. 'S' for sport, 'T' for touring & 'R' for rain.
S feels like you've plugged the throttle into an amplifier, completely and stupidly sensitive (and I have a quick action throttle on the R1 and pride myself on smooth throttle use). Barely use it unless I want to get thrown around like a rag doll.
T feels the most real... I'd like to make up a home job quick action throttle and stick with T.
R is for ****'s simple as that. I came home a few nights ago in a torrential like storm with Pirelli Super Corsa SP's and still didn't find it necessary.
Wanky throttle modes :shake
Honorable mention goes to the dash, I love the dash. Clear, lotsa cool info like fuel usage, max speed, lap timer, kick stand warning light. and backlit red... you army guys no know how easy that is to read at night and not affect your vision. No fuel gauge, just a warning light and 'F-tri'p ah la R1 style and no gear indicator but meh.
Headlight rocks. It lights shit up well.
All in all I'm very happy. Great all rounder and loads of fun. She's a true Italian though loads of 'character' (read annoying shit you're willing to put up with lol), lots of noise and vibes but confident and inspires confidence. In comparison the R1 is a brutal and efficient special forces operative... in and out, no fuss, no one even knew you were there but fuvk me you did a great job kinda shit :crash.
Guess there's more than one way to skin a cat and trying another way for me was long over due. I was considering selling the R1 constantly and wanted to try something else real bad. Lucky for me the Mrs gave me the go ahead to buy a second bike and keep the R1 (she knows how much I love that Jap whore). While this bike is bonkers fun its made me fall for the R1 all over again... they are truly special bikes and with a handful of mods become such a well balanced, capable and brutal package. I'm 70 mods deep and still have A LOT more to go bit fuvk me where the R1 is now gives stock bikes a lot to answer for. I couldn't have a stock 600 or 1000 again without being bitterly disappointed so this fits the bill perfectly.
Imagine you're in a traffic jam with a uber on your left, a semi-truck to your right, and a mom driving a minivan in front of you. Look around, did you know that 33 percent of your fellow drivers are at risk for kidney disease?
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Take this one-minute quiz to find out if you are in the 33 percent. It could save your life.
Right now, 37 million Americans are affected by kidney disease. Most won't have any symptoms unless their kidneys fail. Our kidneys are vital organs that are as important as your heart, liver, or lungs. No one can live without functioning kidneys. When kidneys fail, only immediate dialysis or a transplant can save you.
We want to change these numbers – every adult in the United States needs to know their risk. Find out if you are part of the 33 percent with this simple online quiz and share it with your loved ones.
Who is at risk?
If you have one of these five risk factors, you are at risk for kidney disease:
High blood pressure is a major cause of kidney disease. High blood pressure can be controlled with healthy lifestyle choices and medicines.
Your heart and kidneys work together to keep you healthy. So, if you have heart disease, then your kidneys will be affected. And if you have kidney disease, your heart will be affected. Along with a healthy lifestyle, there are treatments for heart disease you should discuss with your doctor.
Diabetes is a major cause of kidney disease and can be controlled with healthy lifestyle choices and medicines.
If you're overweight or obese, you have a greater chance of developing diabetes or high blood pressure, which are the leading causes of kidney disease and kidney failure. Being overweight or obese can also harm your kidneys directly.
People with a family history of kidney disease are 2-to-3 times more likely to get kidney disease or kidney failure. Discuss family history with your doctor
If you or a family member have one or more of these factors, go to MinuteForYourKidneys.org right now and find out what to do next and how to talk to your doctor.
Life-threatening kidney disease can strike anyone, young or old, and has many causes. Early intervention can make a difference. Lifestyle changes and a healthy diet can sometimes slow the progression of the disease when caught in the early stages, and sometimes can stop kidney failure.
Take the first step
The first step to preventing kidney failure is knowing your risk. With one minute to spare, go to MinuteForYourKidneys.org and understand your risk for developing kidney disease. When was the last time a minute held so much value?
The second step is to get tested. Two simple tests, one blood and one urine, can let your doctor know how your kidneys are doing. A blood test shows how well the kidneys are working, and a urine test shows if the kidneys are leaking too much protein. When the kidneys leak too much protein, you may have kidney damage.
How can you help?
Share the risk quiz on your social media. It could save a loved ones life.
Tweet #DYK that 33% of American adults are at risk of #kidneydisease? Help raise awareness by sharing this quick quiz by @NKF to help others find out where they stand. MinuteForYourKidneys.org #MinuteForYourKidneys
Share on Facebook One in every three adults in the United States are at risk for kidney disease and most don't even know it. The National Kidney Foundation wants you to take a #MinuteForYourKidneys with this quick, one-minute quiz to see where you stand. MinuteForYourKidneys.org
Other ways to help: share our articles and social media posts, use our letters to write to local governments and businesses, and post our videos on your company intranet.
We hope you love the products we recommend and just so you know that as an Amazon Associate & J&P Cycles affiliate, MyEngineNeeds may earn from qualifying purchases.
Since dominating the American motorcycle world since 1903, only the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring have been able to withstand so many miles on the road. And with so many miles under the wheels, why wouldn't you want the best rear shocks. The great thing is, you can adjust different parts of the cycle to enhance its appearance, performance and comfort including the rear shocks.
For instance, bike enthusiasts will replace the factory exhaust with a performance exhaust to enhance performance, sound, and appearance.
Additionally, nothing stops you from looking for the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring to make your bike more comfortable. If you are looking for the best rear shocks for your Harley Davidson bike, then you are in the right place. We will review the best rear shocks in the market and provide you with a buying guide.
You will also learn about the considerations for buying the rear shocks so that you will have a stress-free purchasing experience.
A Snapshot of our Top Performers
Progressive Suspension 944 Series Ultra Touring Shocks
4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Progressive Suspension 430 Series Shocks
4.7 out of 5.0 stars
Burly Brand Slammer Shocks
4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Legend Suspension REVO-A Shocks
4.9 out of 5.0 stars
Legend Suspension REVO Shocks
4.9 out of 5.0 stars
JRi Shocks Dual Adjustable Shocks
Not Yet Rated
Fox Factory IFP-R QS3 Shocks
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Fox Factory IFP-R Shocks
Not Yet Rated
Remember to Check the rear shocks Fitment of your bike on our Suppliers Page
So, what are the benefits of the best rear shocks on Harley Davidson touring bike?
Why do you need to purchase rear shocks for a Harley Davidson motorcycle?
Harley Davidson offers a wide variety of excellent bikes for you to select from. Undeniably, these bikes are one of the best motorcycles that you can get yourself. They are known for their outstanding performance in all riding situations, including long-distance and sporting.
They also have a sturdy construction, which makes them durable. It doesn't matter whether you modify any of Harley's systems because you can still expect to get the best performance. Regardless, nothing should stop you from doing some upgrades to enhance performance and the bike's look. This way, you'll be able to turn heads as you ride around on your awesome bike.
Comfort
The kind of shocks you use on your bike is a significant determiner of how comfortable it will be. You can use some shocks on your bike, and you will forever dread the thought of riding on a rough road.
Alternatively, some shocks will support your weight and your passenger so that there will be minimal noticeable difference while riding in different terrains.
The best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring will enhance both you and your passenger's comfort while riding on long trips.
Appearance
When you have a Harley Davidson bike, you will enjoy riding around, and the admiration that comes with it is worth it. The bikes have a construction that makes it pleasing to the eye, and they are ideal for creating a fashion statement.
Bike enthusiasts enjoy enhancing the look of the bike, thus making it more appealing. Some remove the factory exhaust and replace it with a performance exhaust for a more noticeable look and sound.
The kind of shocks you use on your bike can also affect its appearance and make it more pleasing.
Height
Riders vary in terms of their height. Some are tall, while others are short. Depending on their height, riders have a preference for how tall their bike will be. The ideal height makes it comfortable for the rider to ride for extended distances without exhaustion.
Having the right height for your bike is also safe for you. It allows you to navigate the motorcycle without much hassle. When the need arises for you to support the bike with your legs, you'll have an easy time reaching the ground.
Your choice of rear shocks for the Harley Davidson should therefore depend on your ideal height.
Cost
Sometimes you may wish to have certain upgrades on your Harley Davidson bike. However, the cost of the upgrade would be so high that it discourages you.
If you want to upgrade your bike's suspension, you can use the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring as most of them are affordable. You will get an upgrade on your bike that will change your bike's whole feel and appearance at an affordable cost.
Firmness
If you have the right rear shocks, you will have the desired firmness on the road.
With the right firmness, you can speed comfortably on the road even when you have a passenger. You can also maneuver around rough terrains without much hassle or putting yourself at risk.
Your choice of rear shocks will also affect the stability of your motorcycle. You will enjoy a seamless ride and a smoother riding experience.
List of the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring
Progressive Suspension 944 Series Ultra Touring Shocks
Image by jpcycles.com
If what you are looking for is the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson that lets you tour around in comfort and a lowered stance, your search ends here. The Progressive Suspension 944 Series Ultra Touring Shocks has a design that offers you optimal comfort irrespective of the terrain you are riding in.
If you're searching for a stylish look, Progressive Suspension 944 series is the way to go. It comes with a lowered stance that is not only comfortable but also aesthetically pleasing. The lowered stance is evident while you are riding and when the motorcycle is on the side stand.
It also features a Frequency Sensing Technology (FST) that comes in handy when the terrain gets bumpy. The technology enables the shocks to sense the frequency of a bump and adjust accordingly to offer you a smooth ride.
The springs of the Progressive Suspension are specifically designed for touring, and you can find them in standard, heavy-duty, and super duty rates. They have a sturdy construction that makes them long-lasting.
The shocks utilize all the suspension offered by full-length units but at a lower ride height of 1". If you are a DIY enthusiast, you will love the Progressive Suspension 944 series. You don't require any special tools for you to adjust the shock. With just your bare hands, you can adjust the spring preload.
To give the assurance that what you are buying is a quality product, the Progressive series comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
Stylish.
Comfortable.
Easily adjustable.
They are specifically designed for touring.
Easily adjustable.
The springs are available at various rates.
Cons
Some users say the standard would have been better.
If you are looking for versatility, Progressive Suspension 430 series shocks are an excellent alternative for you. They are available in contrast cut black anodized and chrome finish. Plus, you can choose a finishing that best matches your bike's color for the best look.
It is an excellent choice if you use a Harley Davidson touring as you can adjust it effortlessly. With the threaded preload adjusters, you can easily adjust the shock's height using your bare hands not to have to undergo any costs buying special tools. Therefore, you can tune your ride quality to achieve the most comfortable ride.
Additionally, the Progressive Suspension 430 series is popular because of its application. You can mount shocks either rod down or rod up, depending on your preference.
You cannot confuse the Progressive Suspension 430 series with any other because of its unique design with a polished chrome body, street-rod styling, and machined aluminum spring perches. It features a high-pressure gas monotube design. It also comes with a deflective disk damping, which ensures high performance, comfortability, and better control for your ride.
The fact that the Progressive Suspension 430 series shocks come with a lifetime limited warranty allows you to purchase it with confidence. Its sturdy material makes it long-lasting and makes it capable of carrying more weight. The chrome finish is also rust-resistant, which enhances its durability.
Pros
Flexible mounting either with rod up or rod down.
Effortless adjustment with your hands with the preload adjusters.
The Burly Brand Slammer Shocks are an excellent choice If you are looking for the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring at a budget. They come at an affordable price, ensuring you achieve comfort, performance, and ideal quality ride at a reduced cost.
The fact that they are preload adjustable makes them flexible and versatile. You don't need any tools to adjust the shocks to your height. The shocks are ideal for use by short and tall people as they can change their height accordingly.
The shocks enhance the rider's safety as you can adjust the height, letting you rest your feet on the floor effortlessly when you stop. It also comes in handy when you are maneuvering a challenging terrain.
The Burly Brand Slammer Shocks are available in black and chrome finish. Therefore, you can choose the one that blends well with your motorcycle for a more enticing look. The chrome finish also makes it rust-resistant for durability purposes.
It has a 10.5" eye-to-eye measurement.
Pros
Comfortable.
Easily adjustable.
Chrome and black finish.
Ideal for riders of different heights.
Safe.
Durable.
Rust-resistant.
Cons
It is available in only one gauge rate.
Key Features
Adjustable height.
Black and chrome finish.
10.5" length.
Specifications
Shock style:
Gas Filled
Product color:
Black, Chrome
Full covers:
No
Adjustable:
Yes
Sold in units:
Pair
Duty rating:
Standard Duty
Shock length:
10.5."
Fitment Models
Make
Model
Year
Dyna Defender
FXDP
2001–2004
Dyna Fat Bob
CVO FXDFSE
2009
Dyna Fat Bob
CVO FXDFSE2
2010
Dyna Fat Bob
FXDF
2008–2017
Dyna Low Rider Convertible
FXDS CONV
1994–2000
Dyna Low Rider EFI
FXDLI
2004–2006
Dyna Low Rider
FXDL
1993–2005, 2007 - 2017
Dyna Street Bob EFI
FXDBI
2006
Dyna Street Bob
FXDB
2007–2017
Dyna Street Bob
FXDBB
2015–2016
Dyna Street Bob
FXDBP
2013–2016
Dyna Super Glide 35th Anniversary EFI
FXDI35
2006
Dyna Super Glide Custom Anniversary
FXDC
2013
Dyna Super Glide Custom EFI
FXDCI
2005–2006
Dyna Super Glide Custom
FXDC
1992, 2005, 2007–2014
Dyna Super Glide
CVO FXDSE
2007
Dyna Super Glide
CVO FXDSE2
2008
Dyna Super Glide Daytona
FXDB-D
1992
Dyna Super Glide EFI
FXDI
2004–2006
Dyna Super Glide
FXD
1995–2005, 2007 - 2010
Dyna Super Glide Sturgis
FXDB S
1991
Dyna Wide Glide
CVO FXDWG2
2001
Dyna Wide Glide
CVO FXDWG3
2002
Dyna Wide Glide EFI
FXDWGI
2004–2006
Dyna Wide Glide
FXDWG
1993–2005, 2007 - 2008, 2010 - 2017
Legend Suspension REVO-A Shocks
Image by jpcycles.com
The Revo-A shocks are available in aluminum, which not only makes them durable but also sturdy to carry a variety of load weight. It also comes in various gauge rates, which include standard, heavy-duty, and super duty. The heavy and super duties are suitable for the rider who carries maximum capacity most of the time.
The shock is an upgrade from the standard Revo shock using a combination of shock absorber and conventional coil spring.
If you wish to achieve personal rider quality preference and your riding style, the Legend Suspension Revo-A Shocks is the way to go. It features six external knob adjustments that enable you to fine-tune the rebound according to your weight.
It is effortless to adjust the shocks to your desired height using your hands, and you require no special tools. The extended coil length ensures that you have a smooth ride.
The Revo-A suspension shocks are an excellent choice if you are a DIY type of person. The shocks feature spherical bearings on both bottom and top. The spherical bearings on the two sides make it easy for you to install and align your bike's shocks.
They are available in different finishes, and you will get them in gold, black and clear finish. All you have to do is choose the one that matches your motorcycle's color, and you are good to go. The anodized finish prevents rust formation, which enhances the durability of the Revo-A shocks.
It is backed by a lifetime limited warranty, which is an assurance of its high-quality. You can, therefore, maneuver corners and other challenging terrains without the worry of damaging the shocks.
When you are looking for the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring, you want a comfortable and high-quality bike to ride. Therefore, you should look for shocks with features that guarantee a better ride for you and your passenger.
The Legend Suspension Revo shocks are the best definition of comfort. It offers enhanced resistance to bottoming-out and improves the control of your bike. The features ensure that you have a better-quality ride even when on long-distance trips.
As you choose the rear shocks to use on your bike, your safety should come first. Your choice of shocks should guarantee you will be safe irrespective of the terrain you are riding in. The Legend Suspension Revo Shocks are easily adjustable by hands so you can adjust them to your ideal head. When you have the right height, you can easily rest your feet on the floor when stopped or maneuver a challenging terrain.
The shocks also feature extended shock length with a more extended "sweet pot." The comprehensive coils don't increase the shock length, which leads to a smoother ride.
They are available in a variety of gauge rates, which include standard and heavy-duty rates. You will find them in 12", 13", and 14" sizes.
Additionally, the shocks have an easy installation and alignment made possible by the spherical bearings on the top and bottom. They have an anodized black finish, which makes the bike more appealing. You can, therefore, make a fashion statement while riding around the town.
Finally, the shocks come with a lifetime limited warranty, which allows you to purchase with confidence.
Harley Davidson enthusiasts love the comfort and enhanced performance the bikes offer. When looking for shocks to use, each bike owner wants the best.
Therefore, JRi offers shocks explicitly designed for the Harley Davidson touring. The JRi shocks stand out for several reasons. For instance, they are rebuildable and serviceable, which comes in handy, especially when you don't have the budget to purchase new ones.
Additionally, they are dual adjustable such that you can adjust the rider's height and the damping. You change the height using the spring preload, which you can easily adjust without using any special tools.
The adjustment is dependent on the rider's height. It should allow the rider to ride comfortably in his/her style and effortlessly access the gear.
You will find the damping adjuster at the bottom of the shock, and it offers adjustments on the rebound and compression. There are 40 clicks of damping adjustment. It also features settings based on performance that improve the handling of the bikes.
Are you still wondering why the JRi shocks are some of the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring?
Their springs come in a range of rates so that they can meet the rider's profile. For instance, the heavy-duty springs are ideal for riders who weigh more and have maximum loads on many occasions.
They also come with a custom piston which has a design meant to hug the road. The JRi shocks also feature an anodized black finish that enhances the look of your motorcycle.
The lifetime limited warranty assures you that the shocks are high-quality, dependable, and long-lasting.
The Fax Factory IFP-R QS3 Shocks have a design that offers you and your passenger comfort as you ride for a long distance and maneuver the corners. The shock features an internal floating piston that separates the shock oil and the nitrogen gas. The separation enables maintenance of damping control irrespective of whether or not you ride for a long distance.
The internal rebound control features 16 clicks so that you can fine-tune the rebound rate and help to maintain the rear wheel on the road firmly.
Additionally, the linear spring and damping rates help maintain a firm connection with the road even when you are riding long-distance on a bumpy road.
The spring reload comes with an easy to use plastic wrench and setting guide marks. It is, therefore, comfortable for you to adjust the height to your desire.
If you don't have the money to buy some new shocks, don't worry so much. The IFP-R QS3 Shocks are fully rebuildable. The chrome shaft measures 5/8," and they have a super finish that enhances appearance.
Enjoy smoother rides with your passenger and better control for your bike with the Fox Factory IFP-R Shocks. They qualify as one of the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring because of their features.
For instance, the shocks come with an aluminum type 111 anodized body that makes them sturdy. This makes them strong enough to support the rider's heavyweight and the passenger or any other load. They are also durable so that you will not be going back to the shop any time soon to replace them.
Are you worried that the bike may be too high or low when you fix the shocks? Worry no more. The shocks come with an externally adjustable rebound to adjust the height to your desired position. The rebound has 12 posts for which you can adjust the rebound.
The IFP-R shocks are also cost-effective as you can fully rebuild and revalve them.
What's more?
The gas-charged shocks have an internal floating piston that separates the shock oil and the nitrogen gas. The separation makes it possible for the shocks to maintain damping control; it doesn't matter whether you are riding for a long distance.
Additionally, the spring preload is easy to adjust without using any tool. It also comes with setting guide marks that make it easy for you to fine-tune. Two brothers in the nineties started the brand, letting you choose your desired settings. The adjustments enable you to keep the wheel firmly on the road while enjoying a long trip or riding over the bumps.
The anodized black finish enhances the appeal of your bike.
Remember to Check the rear shocks Fitment of your bike on our Suppliers Page
Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Unsplash
Buying Guide
Top brands
Progressive Suspension
Progressive Suspension is a leading manufacturer of motorcycle suspension in the United States. It manufactures suspension for different motorcycle brands, including Harley Davidson, known for its style and performance.
The Progressive Suspension products are popular as they don't change color, do not change the angle, don't stretch, and don't change placement or stack. The suspensions will also not overlap anything behind or over the logo, and they don't use a dark background.
The brand has been in operation since 1982, and it has grown to build a reputation as a reliable suspension manufacturer. Their suspensions are ideal for use in bikes that cover extended miles.
Burly Brand
Burly Brand has been in operation for about two decades, and it is a leading provider of high -quality aftermarket suspensions. Its suspensions are ideal for use in motorcycles that cover long distances and also carry maximum loads.
Two brothers in the nineties started the brand, and it has grown to be manufacturers of various motorcycle parts, including handlebars and shocks. Their products stand out for being rugged, simple, and bold.
Their products not only make your machine look better but also offers it better performance. They take chrome and steel and transform it into a piece of art that is irresistible.
Legend Suspension brand
Legend Suspension brand has a mission to combine innovativeness and high-quality materials to become a suspension industry leader. They promise not to compromise on material and manufacturing to ensure their customers are satisfied and enjoy the safest and smoothest ride.
Legend Suspensions started its operations in 1998, and it has grown to produce reputable suspensions ever since. It manufactures suspensions for all Harley Davidson models. If you want to buy the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring, Legend Suspension got you covered.
Its products go through a thorough test before being released into the market. That gives you the confidence to purchase them and trust them to offer you the best services.
JRi shocks
JRi Shocks is a leading manufacturer of shocks for various motorcycle brands, including Harley Davidson and Indian Motorcycles.
Jeff Ryan founded the company in 2007. Jeff Ryan was a legendary shock innovator of his time. His 40 years of experience has seen the company grow to become one of the best producers of suspensions for sports and street applications.
The JRi Shocks are assembled using the best material in the United States. They have many awards for their top products, and they continue to offer the best suspensions for performance and comfort purposes.
Fox Factory
Fox Factory has a reputation for producing high-quality products that define the market globally.
The public company, which has its headquarters in Braselton, GA-Georgia manufacturers suspensions that give you the confidence to push your limits irrespective of the terrain you are riding on.
Pricing of rear shocks on Harley Touring
$0 – $100: the shocks in this category are mostly used as a less costly upgrade. They usually have an aluminum construction.
$100 – $300: the shocks in this category are high-quality, and they can be used on a range of motorcycles. Most brands, such as the Progressive Suspension, are in this category.
Over $300: the shocks in this category are expensive, and their costs vary depending on the brand. Here, you will get pressurized gas and oil shocks. The shocks are designed to offer heavy loads and the best handling.
Key features
Adjustable
The best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring are easily adjusted by using your hands. The adjustability is crucial to maintain a comfortable ride and for safety purposes.
When a rider adjusts the bike's height to his/her desired size, he/she can comfortably reach the gear and have a comfortable riding style. Additionally, the rider can rest their feet on the floor when they stop.
The spring preload adjustment should be easily accessible on the bike. The right adjustment also helps to maintain a firm grip on the road for a high-quality ride.
They also come with adjustment marks that make it easy to fine-tune the settings to your comfort.
Material
When looking for rear shocks for your motorcycle, it's essential to pay attention to their material. Motorcycle shocks go through a lot, including riding on rough terrains to carrying heavy loads and passengers.
If you don't have the right material for it, there is a probability of the suspensions giving in when subjected to a lot of stress.
The shocks' construction should be of sturdy material such as type 111 aluminum or durable steel.
Finish
Apart from giving you a comfortable and smooth ride, having the right shocks also improves your bike's appearance.
Most shocks come with an anodized finish and a variety of colors letting you choose your favorite.
Additionally, some shocks will give you a lowered stance while riding or on the side stand, making sure to turn heads as you ride around.
Internal piston
If the shocks are gas-filled, they come with an internal floating piston that separates the gas and the shock oil. The separation of the two helps maintain stability when making your twists and turns and going over bumps.
Rebuildable
Most of the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring are rebuildable and re-valvable. Thus, you don't have to purchase a new one every time. You can have the current one rebuild and save on cost.
Length
The rear shocks come in different sizes. As you choose the suspension to use on your bike, ensure it is the right size. The right size of shocks should give you proper clearance on the road.
Additionally, it should help you to maintain stability and the best quality ride.
How to choose Harley touring rear shocks
Choosing the right shock for your Harley Davidson is not hard. You just need to ensure they are the right size and type.
In terms of type, rears shocks come in two categories; air-sprung shocks and coil-sprung shocks. Your choice between the two types will depend on your budget and the quality of the ride you want.
Coil shocks cost less than the air-sprung ones, and they are therefore ideal when you are working on a budget.
Alternatively, air-sprung shocks are lighter. You can go for the air-sprung shocks when you want to shed some weight on your bike, for instance, for sporting purposes.
The shock size refers to the eye-to-eye measurements of the shock. If you get it right on size, it means your shock will easily fit on the bike's frame.
Buying considerations
Fitment and compatibility
Before you purchase a particular coil, you need to ensure that it is compatible with the Harley Davidson touring. Harley Davidson has a variety of motorcycle models. A shock that fits in one model may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, ensure that the shock is meant for the rear wheel. Motorcycles have a different construction on the front and rear wheels. Also, the rear shocks don't have the same build as the front shocks. You need to be careful not to purchase the wrong shock and waste money or undergo costs returning it.
Weight capacity
Can the shock you want to buy support your weight and that of your passenger comfortably? Can it carry the maximum load that you need it to?
Different shocks are designed to carry various weight capacities. Before you can purchase a shock, make sure it can accommodate the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
With or without a passenger
When looking for the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring, first consider if you regularly have a passenger on your bike.
Having a passenger adds more weight to the bike, which might strain the shocks. The kind of shocks you choose should be adjustable to carry the extra weight of the passenger.
Height adjustments
Adjustable shocks come in handy in various situations. For instance, you can adjust them when you get a passenger to accommodate the extra weight.
Secondly, they let you adjust to your ideal height. The perfect size makes it possible for you to step down when you stop or when you want to go round a rough terrain.
It will help if the shocks come with external setting marks that allow you to fine-tune the height.
Stiff or soft
The choice between soft or stiff shocks depends on the ride's quality that you want to enjoy.
For the front shocks, it is a better choice if you can use soft shocks to enjoy better absorption.
If you regularly have a passenger or go through rough terrains, stiff shocks would be a better choice. Stiff shocks are in a better position to take the strain that comes with the extra weight.
Comfort
If you get the wrong shocks for your Harley Davidson, you will likely end up with a sore back after many miles.
The best rear shocks for Harley Davidson touring should be comfortable for you, whether you are riding long-distance or bumps. If you get a pair of comfortable shocks, you will not dread the feeling of going through bumps.
Ease of installation
As you look for shocks to use on your Harley Davidson touring, consider how easy it is.
If you are a DIY enthusiast and get the right type of shocks, it shouldn't take you long to install the shocks.
Additionally, you require no special tools to install them.
Bottom out
The last thing you want is for your motorcycle bottom to scrap the road. Otherwise, that would mean more costs on repairs.
Your shocks' choice should be adjustable to add more height to prevent the bike from touching the ground.
Value for money
As you look for the best shocks, it is an excellent idea looking for the best quality but at a reduced price. That will make you save some extra cash that you can use for other purposes.
However, though you want to save, ensure that you get value for your money. It would be best if you purchase from a reputable company. Also, check the warranty and understand it to ensure you are covered in case of any defects on the product.
When to change Harley Davidson rear shocks
If you start noticing any deformities with the current shocks, it might be time to change them. Some of the indicators you need to change your shocks include bottoming out, broken components, low-quality rides, etc.
Most shocks can last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. If the shock is not giving you any trouble, then there is no need to change it.
How to install shocks on a Harley
Most shocks come with instructions on how you should correctly install them. If you don't install the shocks properly, you might end up with issues such as bottoming out or leaks.
Ensure that you have the right tools and equipment, such as a lift for the job.
If you want to install shocks on your Harley Davidson Touring, you can follow the following steps:
1. Elevate the motorcycle
For you to work well on the bike, you should have it elevated to your desired height. Having the rear elevated makes it effortless for you to work on the shocks.
2. Support the wheel
The rear of the bike has many components, including the tire, brakes, rotor, etc. Therefore, it is weighty that it might be a challenge to support it as you work on the wheel.
It would be better if you support the rear wheel using a wooden block and wedge-shaped shims.
3. Loosen the bolts and remove the shocks
After you have elevated the rear and you are sure you have enough support, you can proceed to remove the shock.
The best practice is first loosening the lower nuts and then proceeding to the upper ones. If you start with the upper nuts, the shocks may not dangle freely, presenting challenges.
4. Install the new shocks
Once you have removed the old shocks, it is time to install the new ones. Here, the best practice is to start with the upper bolts. When you first attach the top bolt, you can estimate how much you should move the swingarm to align the shocks properly.
If the shocks you want to install are of different sizes from the current ones, you might need more maneuvering.
5. Secure the bolts
When you are sure the shocks are well attached, fasten the bolts. You can refer to the instructions that come with the shocks to know how best you need to do it.
After that, update any other parts that you may have interfered with during the installation.
6. Finally, lower your bike and take it for a test ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brands are best for Harley Touring?
Various reputable brands produce rear shocks for the Harley Davidson Touring, including Fox Factory, Progressive Suspensions, Lend Suspension, etc.
Your choice of shocks to use on your Harley Touring will depend on your preference and budget.
Also, check the brands' reviews online to see what experience other customers had with the brand. Also, check their warranty policy to ensure that the shocks are covered for defects.
Will new shocks make my ride smoother?
The main reason why riders change the shocks is that the current ones are no longer efficient. Some riders will change the shocks because they wish to upgrade to another brand or shock type.
If your shocks are still efficient, there would be no reason for changing them. It means they are still comfortable, and you are enjoying quality rides with them. If you feel the need to change, it is because you are no longer satisfied.
In such instances, new shocks will make your ride smoother and more comfortable.
Should I replace them all at the same time?
If you wish to get the best performance, you should replace the shocks simultaneously. Otherwise, if you replace just one, you will have one that is performing optimally while the other is not.
The result will be an imbalance in the performance of the shocks, which may not be comfortable.
Can I replace Harley's rear shocks myself?
Yes, you can.
First, most rear shocks come with instructions that guide you on how to do the installation.
Secondly, you don't require any special tools for you to do the installation. With essential tools and basic technical know-how, you are good to go.
You will require a motorcycle lift to elevate the rear of the bike. Once you have it at the desired height, support it using a wooden block so that you can efficiently work on it. After that, you can follow the instructions to remove the old shocks and replace them with new ones.
What are progressive motorcycle shocks?
Progressive motorcycle shock is closer on one side and further apart on the other side. The shock has less resistance to force at first, but the resistance increases with force.
Do you need an alignment after replacing rear shocks?
If you follow the instructions and change the rear shocks without tampering with any other part of the bike, you don't need another alignment.
However, if you interfere with the suspension geometry while installing the new shocks, you will need some alignment.
How do I know when my shocks are bad?
Various indicators point out your shocks need a change. You'll start by noting a difference in the quality of your ride. Your rides will be less comfortable, and you will dread the thought of riding over bumps. When you ride for long distances, you will start experiencing a sore back.
Additionally, if your shocks are bad, they may start leaking. You can also start noticing some broken parts on the shock.
Conclusion
Suspensions are a vital part of your motorcycle. The better they are, the better the quality of your ride and vice versa. As you look for the best rear shocks for Harley Davidson Touring, ensure they are from a reputable company and have a warranty.
If you are looking for the best suspensions, consider shopping at J&P Cycles. Get free shipping, 4% cashback, and 10% off select brands with a Gold Club membership. Plus free everyday tech support on aftermarket Suspension & motorcycle parts.
