Most people I've talked with about the 412's say they're at best, a fair replacement for the stock shocks if they're worn out. They definitely are not considered a suspension upgrade by any means. Everyone I know that ordered the HDs returned them to swap the standard springs in for a $15 service charge because the HD springs made the ride feel like a hardtail. You might want to save your cash for some higher end Progressives or Ohlins. Look up "Mud" on this forum to ask his opinion. He reviewed several sets of these shocks and is extremely knowledgeable.

 

Here is the conversation w/ Progressive

I wrote:

"I'm 230 and my wife is 140(she comes along from time to time).

I like the lowered look, so I was thinking of getting the 11" Black 412's. Members tell me that I will be fine w/ the standard 11" and not to get the Heavy Duty model.

Should I get the 412 11" standards, HD's, or stay safe and get 12" ?

If you have more questions you can email me or call me at 847-924-7062.

Thanks"

Response:

"I would go with the standard if I were you. If in the future you wanted to go with the heavier spring we can swap it for $15 per shock. 11 inches is low and you will lose some travel so I always prefer to go long but I am tall so I have an advantage, it really is a personal choice.

Frank van Es
Sales Manager
Progressive Suspension
714-523-8700 EXT 259 "

 

He also commented when I asked what the Heavy Dutys are for and what weight:

"If you were 250 or more or rode 2 up 50% of the time I would go heavy duty"


So it's confirmed!

11" Black 412 Standard Duty it is

 

im 245 and i run the 412 11" heavy duties and they feel good...my wife rides ocassionally and she is 140 and i keep it on the 2nd or 3rd setting...

 

JaronB what handlebars are those?

Sorry for being off topic.

 

Sent you a PM!!

 

I just bought a set of 12" HD's on this forum. If I like the ride then I will probably go down to 11" HD's in the spring.

I'm 6'3" & 290lbs. And the weight of the occasional passenger depends on the amount of bourbon I have before we leave the bar.
My sober weight limit is 1/2 my weight.

 

LOL! That's great.

Haven't made up my mind completely yet. Thinking of getting the 440's now.

 

I had the 412 11 inch HD. I weighed about 210. These were way to stiff and borderline dangerous as I also had the Lepera BB. I switched to Ricors at 12 inch and really you cannot tell much of a difference height wise. But the ride is way better.