Ironhead Rear Shocks Recomendations - The Sportster and Buell Motorcycle Forum

daverso · #1 21st October 2019

I am the original owner of a stock 1980 sporty and looking for new rear shocks. I currently have the original shocks that came with the bike and ready for a better ride and comfort. I was looking at Progressive 412 shocks with a stock length of 12 1/2" and like to maintain the original chrome finish.

What is everyone else using? Thanks

Dave

ReddTigger · #2 21st October 2019

THE 412'S are a good economy shock. many happy customers have been using them for years. you'll need to spend more to get a better ride quality. i recommend reading the sticky in the suspension forum for information on setting up the ride ...

daverso · #3 21st October 2019

will do, thanks for the help

Glamazon · #4 21st October 2019

I had good results with the Progressive 430 shocks and fork springs. a huge improvement in handling and comfort. Remeber to weigh yourself in bike clothing so you can have the correct spring rate. The suspension page is a big help.

83XLX · #5 21st October 2019

I have a pair of standard (not heavy-duty) 12.5" 412s on my '83. They are better than the stockers, but even with the standard springs and set on the lightest preload, they are still a bit too stiff for me (I'm 195 lbs). I suppose they will do for now. I took the lower chrome cups off to make them look a bit more like the stock shocks.

Bikeaholic · #6 22nd October 2019

Hi,
I purchased a set of progressive 412s as they were approx half priced at the time. ( they were at the local Harley shop with other marked down bits and pieces. They were unused-brand new ).
Anyway, they are a improvement on the stock set up but otherwise a very average shock in my opinion. I have ricors intiminators and race tech springs up front which are excellent but it shows up the less quality rear shocks.
However it may be fine for you.

Lone Rider · #7 26th October 2019

I got these from J&P Cycle, it's their "premium" shocks, these are 10" but they come in different lengths, the 10" are dual valved, the longer ones are mono pole, they are very beefy and adjustable (preload /height) good all over performance, like I said these are 10" set my sage and have very little bottoming (I weigh in at 185) I paid $169 for the pair a year ago, they also come in chrome or black.