I'm too lazy to use the search function today, so bear with me.

I have an 09 XL1200C. I'm about 230 lbs and do 2 up riding occasionally, so getting new shocks is a must. I've heard alot of good things about the Progressive 412 series. I have a few questions about them...

Are they really "that" good? Basically, am I going to notice a difference, especially when doing 2 up riding?

On their website, for the Black 412 HD is listed at $299. However I found a pair on ebay for $200. Would you recommend buying them from a 3rd party site to save money?

As far as taking off the old shocks and putting on the new ones, is it a fairly simple job? I don't have the service manual by me right now to look it up, but is it a job that can be done in 1 day?

At the end of the month I am embarking on a 700 mile road trip on my sporty and am hoping to get these on before then. Thanks for the help!

 

I don't know about the progressive rear shocks . But is you have a stand (jack)it is about a 30 min. job to change rear shocks .

 

You may wanna go with something different. Definitely a lot more travel in the shock will help you. I've never tried them, but since the air ride is adjustable and you're a big guy, maybe road king or other bagger shocks would be good for you. Several people I know weren't thrilled with the 412s and they're not as heavy as you. I bought ohlins that are longer, I'm 160 and they're good for me, but could be a bit softer. Huge improvement over stock though.

 

I think you have to jack up the rear tire. I was thinking of doing it myself but my laziness got the better part of me for now. I got some Progressive 440's sitting in the garage, I may have the dealer do it since they only charge 30 mins for the job....

 

You want air shocks so you can adjust the pressure for 2-up, RK shocks (13") are fine for my Roadster, not sure about Custom. I installed them one by one without lifting the bike.

 

I have the standard duty, 11 1/2" 412's on my '05. I'm about 210-215 pounds and I ride solo only. There's no way I'd ride two-up for 700 miles with these shocks. For my application, they're wonderful.
Swap 'em one at a time if you don't have a jack. It'll be easier if someone is around that can lift/sit on the rear to align bolts. Take ya about 20 minutes. Don't forget to torque to spec with Loc-tite.

 

You get what you pay for,,,300 dollar shocks are just that,,
these are not rebuildable

or you could go better,,,
http://www.worksperformance.com/html/street.html

 

Ever bottom out on the 412's when riding solo?

 

Yes, but only in extreme circumstances.

 

I went with the SG air shocks, 11.75" same as 2010 custom stock shocks. I am 225 lb and ride 2-up at times. They work great 1-up (30 psi) and 2-up (40 psi). Got them new on eBay for $80. I bought a bolt kit from Arnott for $25 that included spacers, longer bolts, and bolt caps. Was an easy install.