Progressive 444's
I just did a mini-review thread on these shocks a couple pages back. I can absolutely tell the difference between them and the OEM shocks. It is so plush now in the back that the front now feels like it needs to be upgraded.
IMHO it was definitely worth the upgrade in regards to longer riding comfort level. On an additional plus side, the visible black springs look a lot cooler than the chrome covered shocks I had before(Fatbob).
IMHO it was definitely worth the upgrade in regards to longer riding comfort level. On an additional plus side, the visible black springs look a lot cooler than the chrome covered shocks I had before(Fatbob).
Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 145
Likes: 0
From: Maine
I just installed a set of the neww 444s and IMHO are way better than stock. Like said before just a twist and its adjusted. As far as custom shocks well I've never done that on a bike but have had shocks revalved to my riding style weight etc on my snowmobiles and I really don't think it would be that much difference on a bike than a company like Progressive plus if you ride two up its a quick adjustment. I'm on first line and I weigh 235 and don't bottom also in my observation it helped with some of the nervousness in the bike at high speeds which is a big plus also corners far better than stock. This is a 2011 Wide Glide I found them on Dennis Kirk for 455 shipped to my door best price I found
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Tourer
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 295
Likes: 12
Ordered some today from https://www.directcycleparts.com for $431. I will post an update on the ride quality from stock and V-rod to these.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 2,250
Likes: 36
From: Montana
sounds like directcycleparts.com is getting a lot of business here. I too just ordered a set of 444 progressives. standard spring 12 inch stock height. I will have them tomorrow. hope to have them on by the weekend. I got mine for 438.00 approx. so I feel like I got a good deal. I looked at works but did not have the extra 200 plus some dollars. Like many of us I just do not have 600 bucks to spend on shocks.
Road Warrior
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 1,760
Likes: 211
From: Manila, Philippines
I had Ricors in 12" for over 3 years and they were leaking. I was going to go for Works or similar but saw a good deal on the 970s in 12.5 that I could get immediately and cheaper. I have to say the ride on the 970s are better than the Ricors, much better dampening, which I figure is because the external reservoir. They are different sizes, but for the cost, I like the 970s better. Just hope these last longer than 3 years.
Before, I had Pro 412 in 11' and they were crap, pretty much like riding a rigid.
Before, I had Pro 412 in 11' and they were crap, pretty much like riding a rigid.
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Grand HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 3,580
Likes: 215
From: Illinois
..........I've read and read how HARD the HD versions of the progressive are, so I think it will be fine on the highest setting. Am I right????????????????
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 5,763
Likes: 371
From: North of Hell, South of Heaven
I'm getting the 444's in 11.5" standard duty soon as a get a little more cash. I'm 235lbs and the amount of time I will spend two up I don't think is worth getting the HD model and suffer a much stiffer ride when I'm riding solo, but something that I have been wondering about as I will be at over 320lbs w/ a passenger.
..........I've read and read how HARD the HD versions of the progressive are, so I think it will be fine on the highest setting. Am I right????????????????
..........I've read and read how HARD the HD versions of the progressive are, so I think it will be fine on the highest setting. Am I right????????????????
Recently , I talked with a guy who had dropped his Super Glide 1" using the inexpensive Harley shocks. He keeps them on the softest setting. So, even though he lost 1" of travel, the soft setting helps compensate somewhat. He says it's only bad roads and such, where he could use that inch back. Sounded pretty happy with the results without spending a lot of money. Installing the 444 using the same logic probably will yield even better results. Of course, if you ride with the 'ole lady on back, then all bets are off.