So while I'm healing and the bike is getting repaired I keep daydreaming about little things I'd like to do down the road to my 06 XL 1200R.

The rear factory shocks are 13.25". I will eventually put on Progressive 440s. I can only find them in 13" or 13.5" lengths. I ride solo 99.9% of the time, prefer the "sportier" ride of this model. I added a fork brace and will put on the Metzler 880 (110/90-19 front and 150/80-16 rear) next spring.

I'll also put in Progressive standard length fork springs. Suggestions on the rears? Thanks, ride safe.

**Edit to clarify that I intend to use the 440 rear shocks, need suggestions on the length**

 

65 dollar road kink shocks from ebay

 

first I put roadster shocks on my 05 1200 custom and they were a little better/////////because of more travel ....../then I put the road king shocks on and they were better still..................I run no air pressure when solo.

 

Thanks, I should clarify that I intend to use the 440 shocks just not sure of the length I should go with. 13" or 13.5"?

 

It really doesn't matter much and is your choice. Since the shocks are mounted at an angle, going up or down in size 1/4" from the stock 13.25" will only change your rear ride height by about 3/16" up or down. Generally speaking, a longer shock has more travel and will provide a better ride, but at 13" you should have plenty of travel.

 

I just replaced my stock 13.25" with Progressive 440 13.5". Any amount of clearance between my bike and the road is helpful. I'm still playing with the adjustments, it seemed when it was at #1 or #2 setting, there was a slight bounce when cornering, not sure what that's about. I'll try #3 and #4 this weekend. I'm not sure if I can tell that much of a difference so far.