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2011 sportster shock recommendations

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Old May 13, 2019 | 06:59 AM
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Default 2011 sportster shock recommendations

I have a 2011 Nightster 1200, just recently purchased. I love the bike. But I know the suspension isn’t the greatest so I’m looking to upgrade the tear shocks. I do have the girlfriend ride with me occasionally together we are about 320lbs. I found a set of used dyna shocks on eBay for cheap. They’re claimed to be 12.5’s , I am also looking at the progressive shocks. But I see they have the 412,430 and 444’s which increase in price but I’m unsure of the difference or if they are worth the extra cost. What do you guys recommend for a shock and shock height?
 
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Old May 13, 2019 | 08:17 AM
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Ultimately the question should be what do you want changed in your ride?

Is the ride height an issue? Are you bottoming out with the woman on back? Do you want smoother riding in general?

The Dyna shocks are a suitable upgrade. They're sprung for more weight and you'll get a bit more travel with them being longer, which will smooth things out as well.
 
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Old May 13, 2019 | 09:30 AM
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Originally Posted by Mattbastard
Ultimately the question should be what do you want changed in your ride?

Is the ride height an issue? Are you bottoming out with the woman on back? Do you want smoother riding in general?

The Dyna shocks are a suitable upgrade. They're sprung for more weight and you'll get a bit more travel with them being longer, which will smooth things out as well.
I just purchased the bike and due to the weather here I haven’t had it out other than the test ride. I didn’t have any issues myself on the test ride but I know the stock suspension isn’t the greatest. Just looking for a solid improvement without breaking the bank.
 
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Old May 19, 2019 | 12:00 PM
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Bump, anyone else have some input
 
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Old May 21, 2019 | 05:03 AM
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Unfortunately shocks are not as easy to solve as many of us would like, as the market is saturated! Lots of them are not a lot better than stock and truly good quality ones are not cheap. If you want improved ride quality, especially with a regular passenger, then be prepared to break the bank - or at least spend some money. Bear in mind that many secondhand shocks are being sold for a good reason, just as you may sell your current shocks before long! Also beware that if you invest in good quality shocks (which can be removed if you sell this bike) you may well find the forks also need improvement. I've been down a similar road with my old Glide and now have Ohlins suspension front and rear.
 
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