I was looking at getting some progressive 412 shocks. I was wondering if there was a big difference between the 412's and the stock shocks. I know that stock shocks are crap, but are the 412's a noticeable upgrade? Also is there a huge difference between the 430's and 440's? Worth the extra cost?

Lastly, I was looking for some around 12". Fitment says the 12" are for Dyna's but aren't the eyes and build of the shock the same? Do they just say they are for Dynas because 12" aren't the stock size for a sportster? Thanks so much in advance.

 

The difference between the stock shocks and the 412's is like night and day.
They LOOK a lot better also!

I cant say how the more expensive shocks are, never used them.
I went from the stock 11.6 inch long shocks to 12 inch progressives, then went to 12.5 inch progressives for even more wheel travel.

We could not ride two up with the stock shocks, tried it once and kept bottoming out on even small bumps.
With the progressives, two up is fine and smooth.
I also got more ground clearance and don't drag the exhaust anymore.

The progressive fork springs are great also.

Brett

 

Brett - which Progressive fork springs would you recommend ?

 

The ones that fit your bike.
They have two choices, replacement springs, or ones to lower the bike.
The ones that lower the bike just reduce the fork travel which is limited to start with, I would not go that way.

You can get them on line for $80.00 I think.

Brett

 

I got the springs for my 2006 and man there great but really let you know how $hitty the stock shocks are ! Looking at ordering the shocks this weekend !

 

The stock shocks are really total junk, I cant believe Harley just wants to save a few bucks with the crappy shocks with the very poor ride they provide.
Same with the poor seats on most bikes.

Brett

 

I rode a bike three weeks ago with Prog 412 rear and the std Prog front springs. The ride was incredible compared to my stock Iron. I had been adjusting the pre-load on the stock ones and it just didn't work for me, never felt like a good ride. I actually contacted Brett to get his opinions on Prog shocks, given the expense of them. But I can tell you at least from that 10 mile ride it was very different and I ordered the same set-up for my bike.

 

My setup is similar to Bretts, I run Progressive Fork Springs and 7w BelRay Fork Oil up front and 13.5" 440 standards with LAChoppers one inch lowering blocks. I the 3.42" travel of the 13.5" shock and not too much heighth. In the front I used the spacers at their full 3" length. I have a plush but well controlled ride on both ends.

When Cycle World tested a 1200C they said it had the best $5.00 shocks money could buy.

 

1200cdriver- do you think it would be better to get a longer shock with a lowering block, than to do a slightly shorter shock? I want to get the lowest look, so is it better to maintain that longer travel with lowering blocks?

 

D, if I had it to do over I would get the 13" shocks and go without the lowering blocks, the 13" have 3.18" travel, and I'd still stay with the standards as I weigh about 205. Woops, I just noticed that you want the lower look, if so I don't think you can go 13". What is your stock shock length, Thanks, Dave