Custom Cycle Engineering Swing Arm Bearing

Custom Cycle Engineering Swing Arm Bearings: Precision-Engineered Handling Upgrades

Few suspension upgrades deliver as dramatic a transformation as replacing the stock swing arm pivot bushings on classic Harley-Davidson Touring and FXR models — and Custom Cycle Engineering (CCE) has spent decades perfecting exactly this fix. Their swing arm bearing solutions tackle one of the longest-standing handling complaints among Dresser and FXR riders: the inherent flex and imprecision of the factory Cleve Bloc rubber bushing system.

The Problem with Stock Cleve Bloc Bushings

The original Cleve Bloc-style swing arm bushings found on Harley-Davidson FLT Dressers and FXR models introduce a measurable amount of unwanted compliance at the pivot point. Over time — and especially under hard acceleration or spirited cornering — these rubber bushings allow the swing arm to move laterally and twist, producing the notorious "rear steer" sensation that many long-distance touring riders will recognize immediately. The result is vague tracking, reduced tire contact, and a general instability that becomes more pronounced as the rubber degrades.

CCE's Spherical Bearing Retrofit Solution

Custom Cycle Engineering engineered their Swing Arm Conversion Retrofit Kit specifically to eliminate this problem at its source. Rather than simply offering a replacement bushing, CCE replaces the entire pivot interface with precision spherical bearings — a fundamentally different approach that removes the stiction and flex inherent in rubber bushing designs. The spherical bearings greatly reduce stiction at the swing arm pivot, which provides a quicker reaction time to harsh road conditions and keeps the rear wheel in more consistent contact with the road surface. They also negate lateral and torsional movement in the swing arm by design.

The Retrofit Kit is engineered to cover FLT Dressers through 2012 and FXR models from 1980 through 2001, making it one of the broadest-coverage swing arm bearing solutions available for classic Harley platforms. CCE offers the kit both with and without the optional pivot axle, allowing riders to choose the level of rebuild that best suits their bike's condition. The complete kit includes all hardware and a pressing tool, so installation can be accomplished with common shop tools — a detail that reflects CCE's hands-on, rider-focused approach to product design.

Made in the USA, Backed by Decades of Harley Expertise

CCE's swing arm bearing kits are made in the USA, consistent with the brand's broader commitment to domestic manufacturing across their full catalog of chassis and suspension components. The same engineering philosophy that drives their reputation for fork tubes, triple trees, and motor mounts is evident here: solve a real-world handling problem with a robust, precision-machined component that outperforms the factory part in every measurable way.

For any rider experiencing rear-end vagueness, high-speed instability, or simply worn-out swing arm pivot hardware on a classic FLT or FXR platform, the CCE spherical bearing conversion is a well-proven upgrade trusted by independent shops and custom builders alike. Explore the full Custom Cycle Engineering brand page for their complete lineup, or browse all swing arm bearings to compare options for your specific application.