Rear Shocks
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6th Gear
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Stillwater, OK
Rear Shocks
First off I'm a newbie here, not to bikes. Currently I use H-Ds short (low profile) air shocks in the rear. While I was change out the brake pads I noticed that one of the rubber dust protector boots had a tear in it. I have been wanting to change out those shocks and was thinking Progressive shcoks, but which set and since the rubber boot is torn, good as time as any. Now which ones do I use? I do a lot of solo riding, but I also throw the tour pac and my wife on and go. So I need a shock to handle both duties and I still want to keep the back of the bike low. Thanks, looking forward to the opinions lol
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 1,042
Likes: 86
From: Centeral Coast, California
I have progressive 940's, and can't recommend them. I got mine cheap from a friend that had used them for a month on his bike, or else I would have ordered from Howard at Motorcycle Metal. He sells Ohlin's and JRI's. If you want to stay with the shorter length, I believe that JRI's are what he'll recommend. Be patient and humble when you call him, you'll get a solid education. I saved a GREAT deal of money, or else I would have ordered from him.
I don't recommend Progressive shocks because in my two time experience, they're not worth the money that you would pay.......unless you buy them like I did. They are better than stock, and your bike will handle better, but they're not a very compliant ride. I have the lighter springs in mine (they come with heavy duty), and at the lightest setting they're just tolerable, and I weigh 190 lbs. Where they shine is when you load the bike up with tour gear and your wife/girl friend. But if like me you do most of your riding solo, there's better shocks out there than Progressive for not too much more money.
The days that they're on my bike are numbered.
I don't recommend Progressive shocks because in my two time experience, they're not worth the money that you would pay.......unless you buy them like I did. They are better than stock, and your bike will handle better, but they're not a very compliant ride. I have the lighter springs in mine (they come with heavy duty), and at the lightest setting they're just tolerable, and I weigh 190 lbs. Where they shine is when you load the bike up with tour gear and your wife/girl friend. But if like me you do most of your riding solo, there's better shocks out there than Progressive for not too much more money.
The days that they're on my bike are numbered.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 2,132
Likes: 25
From: NorCal
First off I'm a newbie here, not to bikes. Currently I use H-Ds short (low profile) air shocks in the rear. While I was change out the brake pads I noticed that one of the rubber dust protector boots had a tear in it. I have been wanting to change out those shocks and was thinking Progressive shcoks, but which set and since the rubber boot is torn, good as time as any. Now which ones do I use? I do a lot of solo riding, but I also throw the tour pac and my wife on and go. So I need a shock to handle both duties and I still want to keep the back of the bike low. Thanks, looking forward to the opinions lol
I can tell you from experience that shocks built for your weight and riding style will suck when loaded with tour pack and wife. And shocks built for touring with a tour pack and your wife will suck when riding solo. Shocks built for both are a compromise. This is especially true if your wife is not on the skinny side. I've run HD, Premiums, Ohlins, Ricors, and more. Some were great for some things, others not.
I think the only two options that could work well in this situation would be an air shock with rebound adjustment. Like the Arnott Aldan. I bought Legends (non-adjustable rebound), prior to finding out Arnott has a new smaller air compressor that will fit in a Road Glide fairing. The Arnotts can carry whatever weight you throw at them, plus you can tailor the ride to your liking. Think of it as Howard's 3-3 with an air spring. (I know, I know, they're not Ohlins. But the theory is the same with rebound adjustment). My Ohlins were badass on my Dyna. Loved them. Would buy them again if my wife didn't ride with me.
I've been told a metal spring is only good for about a 100lb range. Air springs can compensate for any weight, more than the bike can carry.
The other option that looks intriguing to me (and I'll try 'em if the Legends suck) are the Terry Cable shocks. They have a patented hydraulic bump stop of sorts that prevents any bottoming out. Yes, they're mechanically sprung, but I think the theory of his design is solid.
Just my $.02
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 3,121
Likes: 489
From: sunny florida
I've run Progressive 940's , Ricor , Ohlin's #3-#3 and JRi B 12" , if you want to stick with 12" go with the JRi , call Howard www.motorcyclemetal.com
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Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2010
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I had Ohlins put on my Ultra in Daytona this year. Wish I had done it years ago. By far the best $ I have spent.
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Thread Starter
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6th Gear
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
From: Stillwater, OK
Thanks for the input, that is what makes this site so cool. I sent an email to Howard, but don't know if he got it, so I'm going to do it again.....No response. Went to his website and saw the 7 gallon gas tanks, which I'm interested in that too! Iron Butt rider here, so more gas means more go and less stop, I like that. Again thanks for all the info/input into this choice............Cos