I went with the regular version. I generally bounce between 200 - 220 lbs, and ride mostly solo, so I didn't need the HD version.

Cheers!

 

The stealership is supposed to adjust the shocks on a softail when you buy it. Too many of them will sell you the bike and not say a word about it. Look in the owner's manual, it tells you how many turns to get the desired weight you want.

Otherwise, next time you do get them to replace a tire or work on something for you, tell them to adjust the shocks to your weight. Should be no charge if they already have it jacked.

 

I don't trust them with anything...I'll handle it when I get home.

 

I only weigh 160lb myself, and yeah, it does ride stiff with the HD spring rates when I am solo... but somewhat expected when I slammed it. Also, no worse of a ride than on some of the vintage bikes I have owned and ridden.


I'm still curious if anyone here knows the recommended weight at which Progressive says to go with the HD over the regulars...? Guess maybe I should have researched that more before I purchased and installed, haha! No regrets.

 

The handle on the Harley tool will hit the ground which is why you have to jack it up for clearance.

This tool makes it a lot easier to adjust since you can attach a ratchet and get a better angle on things allowing you to do it on the sidestand.

https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-S...ad+tool+harley

 

Your owner's manual tells you the turns to make for desired rider weight. I would use that as a reference for the Progressives and adjust as needed from there.

I can't find anything in the Progressive installation that gives a hint as to the ratio of turns to rider weight.

 

Yeah, that tool is included with the 422 shocks.




What is in the manual isn't really going to relate to the stiffer spring rate.
Ideally it is set by measuring sag with rider in bike in riding position.

 

No, it gives you a ballpark to start from. There is a reference E-clip on the Progressive. Use owner manual to get turns from the clip to desired preload stated in the manual. Ride it, see if it needs more or less from there.

The springs are different, but shouldn't be radically so.

 

Nice, I didn't know that they threw it in. I should have noted that it works on the factory shocks as well.

 

Yeah, manual will explain basic concept, but not much else. I see your point though.

Proper baseline is to start with lowest preload setting, measure sag, then adjust as needed to achieve desired proper sag. Count your turns.

The e-clip is only to prevent lowering too far, or in worst case scenario; a loose mounting nut from completely falling off.
Has no effect on spring preload. It is located on the stud mount side for ride-height adjustment, not spring side.