I have a set of progressive 944 shocks on a 2012 ultra limited. I don't like the ride. I have a friend who wants to switch out his premium 12" Harley shocks off of his street glide with me. I know I will be losing an inch travel from the standard ultra shocks but I'm wondering how much of a difference that will make. I ride 2 up about 50% of the time and travel cross country. We also pull a trailer. 2up and with the added tongue weight come in about 430lbs. Has anyone put 12 inch air shocks on their ride? And if so do you think you could handle this set up?

 

Based on your riding style, there is no way I would put those 12" shocks on your bike.

The 13" version of the HD Premium Hand Adjustable shocks will give you a much better ride.
I put them on my '15 Limited, and they are great.

With 12" shocks, you just won't have enough suspension travel.
The ride will be harsher in order to keep from bottoming out also.

 

You must not have the 944's sag set right.and,no the 12 inch shocks will not be better,you would bottom out all the time.

 

...however you can try what I did...12" around town and 13" when touring ....the swap takes 15 minutes.

and then I got tired of the jolts and sold the 12"

they not only reduce suspension travel ( distance) by about 35%, but that also reduces the time it takes for the shocks to go from full extension to full compression

most 12" take offs cost about $125, you can always try them and sell them later if you don;t like

mike

 

I might not. It's seems that I can't get them right. The factory way of doing it isn't working. If I could get them right I wouldn't have any problem with keeping them.

 

Thanks for the advice. That's the answers I was looking for.

 

Standard length 944's are much better than the lowered 12 inch Harley Premium shocks. You are making the right decision in not installing the shorter shocks. You would be VERY unhappy.

 

Hey guys I have the 12" premium hand adjustable shocks off of my 2015 street glide special, with less then 1000 miles on them. I upgraded to the Ohlins hd 022 shocks from Howard at motorcyclemetals... 300 bucks for anybody that wants them. Thanks

 

I tried the 12" premium adjustable on my 05 ultra.
No matter what setting I tried, solo or two up, either too harsh or bottomed.

 

I love the new Ohlins hd 022... 100% better. If you have the money. Give Howard a call at motorcyclemetals.com you won't be disappointed. Promise