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In my shock absorber research, I went on the Progressive site and looked at the specificatioms sheet for the various models. According to the "what fits" page, the 412, 440, 812, and 940 work. In those models there are regular and heavy duty and lengths from 11"- 13" in most. Comparing the 412s, the compressed height is the same, or nearly so, for the various sizes, 9.65" for thye 412 12", but the uncompressed lenght gets progressively longer, 11 up to 13". That of course gives the longer shock a longer stroke and perhaps a softer ride under certain conditions. My speculation is that the shorter ones 11 and 11.5 might be harsher, or less soft, than the 12-13" versions. The regular vs HD versions have the same stoke, just different weight/compression distance.
Has anyone tried different lengths and compared the seat height, how much compression for the 190-200 pound rider when mounting, how the rebound response is, any clearance issuse with inner fender and wiring, and of course comfort.
Since it's a holiday I haven't tried calling Progressive but will later in the week. In the meantime real world user comments on these, the 440s and others would be helpful. I appreciate the Ohlins users potential comments, but not going in that direction.
Thanks, when you get on, how much does it squat and what shocks did you have on before? I have the lowered front and rear and the rear shocks are 12" currently and a 1/4" squat as best I can quess and measure. The 11.5 might be an improvement for me also.
I have 412 12" on both my 01 RK and 2010 Limited. They are great on the Road King, but bottom out very easily on the Limited, regardless of setting. Thinking seriously of going back to stock shocks on the limited....tired of the pounding.
I have 412 12" on both my 01 RK and 2010 Limited. They are great on the Road King, but bottom out very easily on the Limited, regardless of setting. Thinking seriously of going back to stock shocks on the limited....tired of the pounding.
I am going to presume that the 412s on the Limited were not the HD variety?
Interesting because I get a pounding with my current shocks when I hit any kind of sharp bump.
Here's my 2 cents. I have the 440's with solo rate springs and 412's with springs for tandum riding. I prefer the less expensive 412's, even solo. The 440's top out when riding solo and the 412's are smooth. Not sure of shock length, but think I used stock length replacements.
Last edited by Harleyboyddk; Sep 5, 2011 at 10:45 PM.
I am going to presume that the 412s on the Limited were not the HD variety?
Interesting because I get a pounding with my current shocks when I hit any kind of sharp bump.
Just looked up the number on the Progressive web site. The 412's on my Limited are Heavy Duty, even though I ordered the non-heavy duty. I don't know enough about shocks to know what the difference would be. I would presume the HD would be better for the heavier Limited. Maybe not.
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