This Easter weekend I finally got to ride the bike all weekend. And I realize I need to upgrade the rear stock shocks.
I have read allot about the progressive shocks on these threads and I had a few questions.

I'm 205lbs and do plan on sometime in the future riding 2 up. My gf is 115-120lbs.
What type of shock would be good and what size?

I know I need the heavy duty ones but should I get 12.5 inches or 13 inches?(or any advice for any other size) Progressive 440's or 412's?
Any feedback would be much appreciated

-Brett

 

I would go with the heavy duty,you didn't say how tall you are but if you are over 5'7" I would go with 13 or better

 

When I don't sloutch I'm about 6'4" lol

 

May want to look into beefing up the front suspension also,then go with at least a 14 or 15 inch shock in back,I like a little ground clearance,I'm on the short side had to go with 12.5.

 

Please read more on your available choices and expand them to the Dyna section as well as the baggers.

 

I have 13" shocks off a 1200R which I bought on ebay for about $50. The ride is greatly improved, but it doesn't look as cool (but still not bad at all). I'd like to get some better quality (progressive) 12" eventually.

for me, the stock shocks are barely even usable. it's pathetic that Harley actually puts them on a $10k motorcycle.

 

First thing to try is adjusting the tension on the springs. It's a sinple turn with a spanner wrench. This may solve your problem and save some $$$. If not you didn't lose anything unless you have to but the wrench(about $10-$15)

 

The bike comes with 11.5" shocks. I have the 11.5" progressive HD's. They look awesome, the bike is too low to corner like i want it to. I think anything taller would look ****ty, but it's at the cost of performance.

 

the taller you go the gayer the back end looks imo. the 412 HD's set to the highest setting may do the trick. how about some road king air shocks? they look pretty sweet on the nightster without changing the overall appearance of the back end. good luck.

 

I adjusted the rear stock shocks to the highest last night and took it for a spin. I noticed I had more cornering lean room before I scraped the feelers but I'm still iffy about that setting when it comes time to pack my fishing gear or 2 up.