I'm having a hard time deciding between the Progressive 412 series shocks and the 444 series for my new-to-me XL1200C.

There is roughly a $300 price difference between the two, with the 412s being the cheapest.

For those of you with experience with these, is there really a noticeable, significant difference between the two?

 

If your thinking about 444 look at dk customs bitubes which would be similar price to 444. I just switch from 444. Also the lenght and travel of the shock are where you really feel the difference. Like 11" 444 or 412 have sub 2 inch travel. Add rider sag and your in the 1 inch travel so for that id go for 412 and save thr money. But if you go with a longer 12.5" minimum

 

There is a pretty significant difference in ride quality between the two. But what that difference it worth to you, only you can decide. The 412's are considered by most people as a higher quality stock replacement shock, where as the 444's are considered a quality upgrade. I have had and done both options and do like the 444's. If your willing to break the piggy bank, Ohlin's might be the best option in term of absolute best ride quality. but they ain't cheap.

 

id look at dk customs before you pull the trigger on 444. or even the new 490's

 

I switched from the 412 to the 444 last year. The additional $250 is worth it if you are running with a shorter shock, do a lot of highway miles, or switch between one up and two up riding a lot. The 412 can be fairly rigid and unforgiving in bumpy areas and requires a tool to change the preload but the 444 you can change the preload by hand.

 

Hi may I know how many inches u go for 444?

 

I went with 12.5. Worked out good for my Superlow. Of course I put Progressive on the front as well.

 

I asked close to the same question a few weeks ago. I was advised to go with air shocks out of Electra Glide. I have not installed them yet but adjusting them for a 2 up or soft single is very easy so I see the draw to them.

 

I'm the OP. I posted this question about three years ago. I eventually went with the 444s, the more expensive set of shocks. They were definitely not worth the money, in my opinion. I really could not tell that much difference beteen them and stock.

 

I sure could, once I got them dialed in correctly. Setting the sag correct is important.. There is a road I ride that has a hump in it. I cracked a vertebra in my back hitting it with the stock shocks. Never had a problem hitting it with the 444s. But that's just me. Your mileage could vary..