I'm looking to upgrade to some progressive rear shocks. Thinking either the 412's or 430's. Besides the price and obvious appearance, does anyone know the difference in performance. Thanks!

 

Go with an adjustable shock. You'll be glad you spent the money. I run the 444's and they're worth every penny. First shorter than OE shock I've had that actually rides decent. Also if you're worried about performance and want detailed info call Progressive. They offer excellent customer service and will explain everything you need to know to make an educated purchase. After talking with them you'll probably also want the 444's.

 

412s (which I have) are a definite improvement on the oems (which I consider so bad they're dangerous). They are not fantastic, but they are simple, reliable and good enough for the bike if it's in mostly standard trim and you ride within a sensible margin of safety (as that concept is commonly understood, I'm not judging who does what).

444s (which I've ridden) are a significant improvement on that. They are a worthy investment even if you ride the bike conservatively, and perform well-enough to be part of a package of improvements if your intention is to upgrade the whole bike for the purposes of wheelyin' and hoonin' and suchlike shenanigans...

 

I went with the 444,s 12.5" (1/2 longer than oem) really like them, are fairly reasonably priced and lifetime warranty. also if you need tech support, they are always available during business hours. wish ricor support was as good. am wishing had gone with progressive cartridge fork instead of intiminators.

 

444's 12" Standard Duty here. Great shocks!

 

I too, went with the 444s, and glad I did. I went with stock length and my ride improved greatly.

 

That's a pretty big jump in price from the 412's to the 444's. I guess you get what you pay for though! I think for the price of the 444's, it would be worth looking at the Works Performance Black Trackers also. Also seems that people either go with the 412's, or jump right past the 430's to the 444's. Does anyone know, are the 430's just not worth it? Thanks!!

 

"seems that people either go with the 412's, or jump right past the 430's to the 444's. Does anyone know, are the 430's just not worth it?"

I'd guess (judging by their technical specs) the 430s are good quality, solid performers and, like most Progressive stuff, well-worth the money.

I think there are two reasons why the 430s aren't more popular: first, they look funny. That 'cut billet' style doesn't really suit the current fashions for Dynas, (which tend toward the stripped down/purposeful/performance/club/etc style these days). Just my opinion, mind you.

Second, the 412s are just fine (not brilliant), until you start to push the bike in a performance direction. Then, most people look at more serious gear like 444s, Black Trackers, Ohlins etc.

So, the 430s maybe get jumped over...

 

Pro-Action suspension makes a nice shock now for Harley's . They are mostly known in the motocross racing circles but their stuff looks top notch. Definitely more performance orientated not just for show.

 

I haven't heard of Pro-Action, I'll have to check them out. I'm going with Race Tech up front. Mainly because that's what my friends and I have on our dirt bikes, and always thought them to be great quality.
And, I agree, the 430's do look a bit strange, at least to me.