Thinking About a 2026 Harley-Davidson Trike? Here’s Why a Custom Trike Conversion Might Be the Better Ride
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When riders start thinking about buying a new 2026 Harley-Davidson trike, most assume the only option is a factory-built Tri Glide Ultra. But over the years, we’ve had countless riders come to UNB Customs asking for “an upgrade” — specifically, to move away from the solid-axle suspension found on the Tri Glide and switch to the independent rear suspension systems offered by Roadsmith and Hannigan.
If you want a smoother, more comfortable ride, or simply better handling on long trips, it’s worth knowing: you don’t have to buy a factory trike. You can start with a brand-new 2026 Harley-Davidson motorcycle and have it converted into a custom trike using one of these premium independent suspension kits — built and installed professionally right here at UNB Customs.
Solid Axle vs. Independent Suspension: The Real Difference
The Tri Glide uses a solid rear axle, meaning both rear wheels move together as one unit. It’s durable and proven, but it also means you’ll feel more road vibration — especially when hitting bumps or uneven pavement. That stiffness becomes quite noticeable on longer rides.
Independent suspension systems (like those used in Roadsmith and Hannigan trike kits) allow each wheel to move separately. That flexibility absorbs uneven surfaces and improves traction, cornering, and overall comfort.
In short:
Solid axle (factory Tri Glide): simple, strong, but a rougher, less forgiving ride.
Independent suspension (Roadsmith / Hannigan): smoother handling, better ride quality, and increased comfort for both rider and passenger.
Many of our conversion customers are former Tri Glide owners who tell us the difference is night and day.
How Steering Feels — and Why
Another key difference comes from how steering geometry is handled.
When we perform a trike conversion, we install a triple tree steering kit that changes the rake angle of the front end — adjusting the angle where the tire meets the road. This correction reduces steering effort and gives the front end a natural, almost power-steering-like feel, making it far easier to maneuver.
In comparison, the factory Tri Glide extends the fork tubes and adds a steering dampener, rather than correcting the rake angle itself. While that approach helps some, it doesn’t reduce effort in the same way, and many riders notice the difference right away.
The result: smoother steering, more responsive control, and far less fatigue — especially for long-distance riders.
A Ride That Feels Tailored — Not Templated
One of the biggest advantages of building a trike conversion is freedom.
You’re not locked into one factory color, setup, or trim package — instead, you get to choose every detail.
You pick the exact Harley you love — maybe a 2026 Road Glide for that big touring fairing, or a Street Glide for a sleeker profile — and we build the trike around you.
It’s not “just another trike” — it’s your trike, with the look, feel, and balance you want right from the start.
Built to Ride — Not Just Display
Factory trikes look great on the showroom floor, but an independent suspension conversion truly comes alive on the road.
Cornering is smoother. Braking feels more balanced. Highway bumps that once rattled your shoulders now glide beneath the frame.
We’ve built conversions for riders who tour thousands of miles every season, and they all say the same thing — it feels like a completely different machine.
Independent suspension lets each wheel respond to the road individually, so the trike stays planted and predictable even over rough pavement.
It’s performance and comfort working together — and once you experience it, it’s hard to go back.
Craftsmanship Meets Custom Fit
Every trike we build at UNB Customs is assembled, painted to match, and road-tested by our team. We don’t rush builds or cut corners.
Paint is another area where we take pride. Whether you want a factory-match color or a full custom scheme with hand pinstriping, we blend everything to perfection. When it leaves our shop, it looks like Harley made it that way from day one.
It’s not an aftermarket add-on; it’s a professional transformation.
And since both Roadsmith and Hannigan stand behind their kits with manufacturer warranties, you get confidence that matches the performance.
Your Next Ride, Done Right
If you’re thinking about moving to three wheels — a conversion gives you the best of both worlds: Harley heritage with modern suspension technology.
Come see the difference firsthand. We can walk you through the Roadsmith and Hannigan options, explain the suspension systems in person, and help design a trike that fits your riding style perfectly.
At UNB Customs, we don’t just sell conversions — we build them, ride them, and stand behind them.
