progressive 944 ultra low shocks
2nd Gear
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: California
944UL Versus 444 11.5 inch
I just spoke to Progressive today. They told me that the 944 Ultra Low is a 12 inch shock that sits at 11 inches once installed. It accomplishes this by installing two springs instead of one outside the shock. There is an upper shorter spring that is weak enough to collapse under the weight of the bike alone so it drops down 1 inch once installed. The 444 shock itself has only 1.77 inches of travel while the 944UL has nearly 3 inches of travel. For a little bit more $ I went with more travel. I was running the 440's in an 11.5 inch length. This way I can keep my bike lowered the way I want. To test I made a mark on saddlebag support then measure from ground up to mark with 11.5 444's installed. Then I put a jack under rear fender to raise the bike up a half inch which will put it at the same ride height as if I installed the 13 inch 944's because they sit at 12 inches once the bike is on kickstand. I did not like the look of my bike with it raised up to the 12 inch level. So I opted for the Ultra Low 944's and it will lower it about a half inch from what it was with the 444's but give me much more shock travel and also the new upgraded valve technology than I had with the 440's. Took me almost two days to figure this **** out. I hope the 944's are an improvement and will try and let everyone here know once I get them installed.
Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,863
Likes: 55
From: Sedalia,Missouri
I considered the 944 Ultra Lows but ended up going with the regular 944 lows with standard springs. I was just afraid the ride might not satisfy me with the Ultra Lows. I haven't put many miles on the 944's so I can't give an honest opinion yet. I changed the settings quite a few times and finally left them at two turns, for a reference I weigh 183 lbs. I ride a stripped down 2010 Ultra.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 2,216
Likes: 102
From: Central Illinois
If you are looking for actual 11" shocks, and not ones that sag when you sit on the bike or its raised off the stand, then try out Pro-Action. Looks as though they have quite a bit of adjustment available to them also.
http://street.pro-action.com/
http://street.pro-action.com/
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 9,193
Likes: 494
From: Richmond, VA
Actually, for (I think), about $70, Progressive will swap out the HD springs for the standard rate springs. I know, because I have used that very service myself. You are not alone in buying the wrong shocks, and being unhappy with Progressive. I have posted more times than I can remember, that Progressive does themselves a HUGE injustice by marketing standard/Heavy Duty as the option. Because the very nature of the American Male mindset, is for the same price..... we ALWAYS choose the heavy duty. And just like you, I wound up with stiff shocks. Please, don't suffer a crappy ride, just call them. I was very happy I did.
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 163
Likes: 4
From: northern calif
Thanks for the tip. .I will pursue that option. And you are correct in your observation
if it says HEAVY DUTY. then I'm all in
if it says HEAVY DUTY. then I'm all in
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Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,863
Likes: 55
From: Sedalia,Missouri
Leachman I'm not by my bike right now but I will tell you this. I backed my shocks all the way down and then put a piece of blue painters tape on the adjuster for a reference. I have had them anywhere from 1/4 turn all the way to 4 turns. I still haven't decided where I like them best, they are currently set at 2 turns. If my memory is right I think I saw 2 lines when I was at 4 turns. I haven't been able to ride much because of all the rain here in the Midwest. If you get it figured out please let me know.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,616
Likes: 4,440
From: anacoco, la
yes, but, how much of that 3'' of travel is rebound? if it is the same 1'' as the regular 944, then 1.77'' + 1'' gives you 2.77'' which in my bike is 'nearly 3 inches'....