Shocks for FLHX
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 123
Likes: 2
From: Maryland
Shocks for FLHX
I've been looking at posts on shocks and went to several sites regarding replacement shocks for my 2012 FLHX. There are so many options it is confusing. Based on what I've read, I guess the best alternatives are Progressive or Ohlins, but there are so many variations and I'm not sure which brand is more appropriate. I also would like the ride height to be the same or possibly an inch lower than stock, Can anyone recommend the right replacement?
P.S. I am not looking to spend a mint and don't need the Cadillac of shocks.
P.S. I am not looking to spend a mint and don't need the Cadillac of shocks.
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 3,156
Likes: 41
From: So Cal
Keep reading the old posts for info. There are many opinions.
Ohlins, Terrycable, Works are some of the high end shocks, $ 550.00 to over $ 1000.00. Most of the Ohlins users are set on them , if thats the way you want to go call Howard at Motorcycle Metal for info and great pricing for Forum members.
The Mid to High end stuff seems to be Progressive (their "Best" models 440, 444, 940, 944) or the HD Premium Adjustable Shocks (CVO)they are $ 400.00 to $475.00. or Progressive s "Better " line 412 or 430 run $210.00 $375.00
I went with Progressive 940 Ultra Touring Shocks and am very happy with the improvement. Ive use Progressive before on my Sporty and Softail and was happy with them. They are also coming out with a new line of 944 or 444 shocks that have different damping tech. If thats the route you want to go call Progressive and ask some questions. The 940 or 944 will keep your bike at the same height for a SG or RGC (12" shock height) but give you the travel of a 13" shock which really helps soften the ride.
If you want to lower your bike more than it already is with the Progressive Shocks I think you would need to use the 440 or 444 and get a 11.5 or 11" shock. But doing that is going to cost you travel and the ride will suffer even though you are getting a better shock IMO.
Any of the ones Ive mentioned will work better than the HD Air Shocks that your bike came with .
Also if you really want to improve ride and handling you need to do the front suspension too, Monotubes , Gold Valves or at least a better spring and oil change.
Ohlins, Terrycable, Works are some of the high end shocks, $ 550.00 to over $ 1000.00. Most of the Ohlins users are set on them , if thats the way you want to go call Howard at Motorcycle Metal for info and great pricing for Forum members.
The Mid to High end stuff seems to be Progressive (their "Best" models 440, 444, 940, 944) or the HD Premium Adjustable Shocks (CVO)they are $ 400.00 to $475.00. or Progressive s "Better " line 412 or 430 run $210.00 $375.00
I went with Progressive 940 Ultra Touring Shocks and am very happy with the improvement. Ive use Progressive before on my Sporty and Softail and was happy with them. They are also coming out with a new line of 944 or 444 shocks that have different damping tech. If thats the route you want to go call Progressive and ask some questions. The 940 or 944 will keep your bike at the same height for a SG or RGC (12" shock height) but give you the travel of a 13" shock which really helps soften the ride.
If you want to lower your bike more than it already is with the Progressive Shocks I think you would need to use the 440 or 444 and get a 11.5 or 11" shock. But doing that is going to cost you travel and the ride will suffer even though you are getting a better shock IMO.
Any of the ones Ive mentioned will work better than the HD Air Shocks that your bike came with .
Also if you really want to improve ride and handling you need to do the front suspension too, Monotubes , Gold Valves or at least a better spring and oil change.
Last edited by XARAN; Feb 20, 2012 at 09:32 AM.
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 123
Likes: 2
From: Maryland
Is there much of a difference between the ride of the 412's, 430's, or 440's? I've read the descriptions on the Progressive website, but I'm not sure exactly what the difference is...other than price.
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,898
From: Bedford UK
I've been looking at posts on shocks and went to several sites regarding replacement shocks for my 2012 FLHX. There are so many options it is confusing. Based on what I've read, I guess the best alternatives are Progressive or Ohlins, but there are so many variations and I'm not sure which brand is more appropriate. I also would like the ride height to be the same or possibly an inch lower than stock, Can anyone recommend the right replacement?
P.S. I am not looking to spend a mint and don't need the Cadillac of shocks.
P.S. I am not looking to spend a mint and don't need the Cadillac of shocks.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 6,532
Likes: 132
From: SoCal
I've been looking at posts on shocks and went to several sites regarding replacement shocks for my 2012 FLHX. There are so many options it is confusing. Based on what I've read, I guess the best alternatives are Progressive or Ohlins, but there are so many variations and I'm not sure which brand is more appropriate. I also would like the ride height to be the same or possibly an inch lower than stock, Can anyone recommend the right replacement?
P.S. I am not looking to spend a mint and don't need the Cadillac of shocks.
P.S. I am not looking to spend a mint and don't need the Cadillac of shocks.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 66
Likes: 0
From:
Tem 2169, I also have a SG a 2009 and have lowered it down approx. 2" However I did not like the ride with the progressive shocks. I am not knocking them they just were not for me. I just came off of a 2007 Ultra and like the softer plush ride. Like everyone else says it is all personal preference. Probably not what you want to hear, sorry. If it helps, I have a set of 11.5" adjustable Progressive 440's only used 2 weeks, if you are interested? I can email you pics. send me a message to edge2edge@comcast.net
Trending Topics
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 994
Likes: 45
From: North Carolina
I have been wrestling with this for over two weeks now and have tried to read everything that has been printed about shocks here. I have called Howard so many times at MotorCycleMetals (954-449-6173) that I have him on speed dial. He is very pleasant to talk with and will take the necessary time to give you an education on shocks. Expensive? Yes, but I feel that with his customer support, the price is fair.
It is a rare thing today to find someone that has a passion and knowledge about the product they are representing. Good luck in your search....
It is a rare thing today to find someone that has a passion and knowledge about the product they are representing. Good luck in your search....
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 114
Likes: 1
From: San Diego
I wrestled with this for over 4 months. Finally broke down, Ohlins are in the mail!
PS. I've talked to Howard more in 4 months then my mother, just sayin'!
PS. I've talked to Howard more in 4 months then my mother, just sayin'!
I have been wrestling with this for over two weeks now and have tried to read everything that has been printed about shocks here. I have called Howard so many times at MotorCycleMetals (954-449-6173) that I have him on speed dial. He is very pleasant to talk with and will take the necessary time to give you an education on shocks. Expensive? Yes, but I feel that with his customer support, the price is fair.
It is a rare thing today to find someone that has a passion and knowledge about the product they are representing. Good luck in your search....
It is a rare thing today to find someone that has a passion and knowledge about the product they are representing. Good luck in your search....
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,043
Likes: 2
I weigh 200, preload @ 140 for a smooth/low, solo ride!
eye to eye - 11"
travel - 1.2"
spring rate - 230 medium
http://www.ultimaproducts.com/Ultima...RearShocks.pdf
