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Looks like it will be time to replace my shocks on the old '89. I'm done with the air shocks and already rebuilt the front end, installed Progreesive springs in the forks and eliminated the POS air system up front, so the back might as well match.
Did some searching and just need to get a few things vailidated.
Stock shock length for the FLHT is 13" ? (Looking to go to 12" for the new shocks)
The 440 series looks to have an improved dampener over the 412's, is the ride improvement noticable?
I wiegh in at 250, ride solo 95% of the time, but my saddle bags are always stuffed with tools, supplies and stuff for trips so they are each loaded to 15 lbs each.
From that description, I should be looking at going with the HD spring? The Standard spring looks to be good for "up to 225 lb's."
If anyone can throw some info my way, it sure would be appreciated. Thanks.
I would definately go with the 440's and the HD especially if you are going an inch lower. You will LOVE them. I had em on my 01 RG and will put them on my 08RG this spring when riding season gets here...
cant go wrong with the 12" 440's I have the standard springs on mine rode down to biketoberfest 2up with a full load of gear ( both bags full plus a riggpack full, plus tent) I weigh about 180 wife 150 got to daytona and was complaining about the ride to the progressive rep. and he asked how much preload I had when I told him 5 turns he told me to back it off to 2.5 to 3 turns, he was right. before deciding on which springs give them a call 714-523-8700 you might not need the hd springs.
having had 412's on several jap bikes and a sportster and now riding 440's on my Road King Custom, I urge you to spend the extra bucks and buy the 440's. You won't be disappointed.
Go with the HD springs...I had those on my 97 RK I was about the same weight as you, They are stiffer and I kept them on the lowest level solo. They are easy to adjust by hand. Was always funny the reaction of a lightweight mechanic after he test road it because it would bounce him around. They were great shocks, just don't be surprised the first few times you hit a good bump and here the IAS clicks as they damper locks up and adjusts for the road. When I have to change out the shocks on my new bike, I will go with the 440's again well worth the money.
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