I want to get new shocks for my 09SG, and have been drawn to the progressive 440HD based on price and word of mouth. but i am unsure as to what length i can get away with to retain handling and get a slightly lowered look. 12.5" seems to be a good enough difference from 13 to have a subtle change without losing out on ride quality. I am also open to input on brand and series as well. I am 315lbs riding solo, so good suspension is a big deal for me, i had a custom made works performance shock made for my old buell x1 and it was night and day difference in comfort and handling, and that big shock was expensive so I am open to a fairly good sized price point to upgrade the shocks on my SG.

thanks

 

Not 100% sure on this, but I think the SG's already come with 12" Shocks. The Kings and EG's come with 13" Shocks.

 

The SG come stock with 12" shocks. I upgraded to the HD premium shocks standard height (13"). I barely notice the height difference but for the money the ride is a huge improvement. HD has also the same shock in a 12" height but I have not tested those.

 

You are correct

 

so 12" it is then.

also was looking to know if any big guys have different opinions on shocks since a heavy rider obviously has different suspension requirements

thanks

 

so I did a little more digging and learned about motorcycle metal. i emailed howard and got a price point that i really like on his #2 ohlins.

anybody on here have the #2 ohlins on their bagger?

from all of the information he has provided me it seems that he really likes to educate his customers on shocks so they know just what they are getting and how it works, which to me is really impressive.

 

Yes, I am running the Ohlin 2-2a which is a 12 1/8" shock and has a Shock Stroke of 3 1/4". That compares to the regular 2-2 that is a 12" shock but only has a Shock Stroke of 2 1/2". That 3/4" in Shock Stroke means alot of preload adjustment capability on a short shock. Definitely go with the Ohlins, go with the 2-2a and give Howard all the information he needs regarding rider weight, passenger weight and riding style so he can build the right shock for you.

 

Just a word of warning, I bought some progressives, was the right length but the bike sat much lower. I ended up with Harley's Premium Adjustable Touring shocks and am very happy with them.

 

Rich, go with either Ohlins or Ricors. They will build them to your weight and you'll have zero issues. They will be a 100% improvement. Swing by my office when you get a chance and want to BS about it.

 

If you put 'ohlins' in search you'll get plenty of reading, including from other SG owners!