Progressive Shocks

[baltimorenick]

I am ready to drop the bucks to replace my OEM shocks with some progressive 412's. Using their fitment finder, it looks like the correct 12.5" shocks that are closest to stock have part number 412-4207C.

Unfortunately, these are only available in chrome. I want them in black. I emailed them and they said there isn't a comparable version in black.

Any suggestions? (besides taking them apart, stripping the chrome and painting). I am not completely set on the progressive brand but I've heard good things.

I am 6', 175lbs. I do a decent amount of 2up riding and occasional touring, both solo and 2up. SWMBO is probably 115lbs.

I might just end up getting the chrome ones, but why pay for something that isn't 100% what I want if there are other options?

[jetmechmarty]

Get the 12 series. Get the heavy duty springs. You can get the 12 series in all black.

You may want to look at Hagon shocks as well. You'll find them in the same price range.

[JeffH]

Here's my experience:
Last fall I put on a new set of Progressive 412HD shocks. Got the Heavy Duty thinking HD rate would give me stiffer the ride I was looking for. On my 78E, solo rider with these 412-4214c HD $299 buck Progressives I'm a bit disappointed about the 'soft / spongy' ride. I already got it cranked up 3 notches so far and will likely end up going up all 5 notches to get the firmer ride I want. One wouldn't think running solo with no luggage that these brand new HD shocks create such a mushy ride in the rear. If you are riding 2-up maybe super duper HD's ?? -or- spend more $$$ for upgrade. If I were running 2-up with these 412HD's I'd be very disappointed in the spring bounce even at the highest settings.

Recap: the 412HD's are nice. They went on easy. They mostly work OK but the spring sold as HD could be stronger in my opinion. I thought for $299 they would be better. btw: I have front forks setup by Traxxion Dynamics with emulators and custom wound springs so the front is very tight (as I wanted) but the rear is to spongy.

Jeff

[jetmechmarty]

If you are riding 2-up maybe super duper HD's ?? -or- spend more $$$ for upgrade. If I were running 2-up with these 412HD's I'd be very disappointed in the spring bounce even at the highest settings.

Jeff

I have the heaviest springs Progressive offers. They are 170/200 rate. They're a bit harsh, but I found it the best option. Next time, I'll probably look for some other option.

[baltimorenick]

From Progressive's site, it looks like the 12 series doesn't have adjustable damping. Has anyone used the 12's? I feel like not having adjustable damping would be a step down from the stock shocks. Is this a needless concern?

Also, does anyone have experience with Hagon's? They look much more customizable.

[jetmechmarty]

From Progressive's site, it looks like the 12 series doesn't have adjustable damping. Has anyone used the 12's? I feel like not having adjustable damping would be a step down from the stock shocks. Is this a needless concern?

Also, does anyone have experience with Hagon's? They look much more customizable.

I have 412 on my XS11. There is no adjustment other than spring replacement. They work OK. If you want bells and whistles you're going to pay more. I have black 12 series on my XS650. I can tell no difference in function between the two.

I had Hagons on my XS650 and they work fine. If you get them from the proper source, the springs will be customized to your application and you can choose between straight rate and progressive wound springs. If I had a do over I would likely get these with straight rate springs.

Bitubo is also worth a look and especially YSS. YSS seems to offer big bang for the buck.

[baltimorenick]

OK, I decided to go with YSS. Searching through the forum here looks as though nobody else has given them a shot yet. I decided to go with the BRAVO series in all black.

http://www.yssusa.com/series-bravo.html

I placed an order through the phone. I gave them my weight, passenger weight and estimated luggage weight for when I am touring. I also gave them an estimated percentage for how often SWMBO is on the back. The woman that took my order was very knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. The price is US$189 for the pair and an additional $23 a piece for 60mm shroud covers. I also asked them to have a tech call me before they start building my order so I can find out what kinda spring rate they are going to recommend.

Thanks to everyone for the information. I will post a new thread with pictures and info as soon as I get them in the mail. Hopefully these will work out well and be a decent alternative to Progressive or Hagon.

[jetmechmarty]

I think you made a very wise choice. I look forward to learning how they work for you.

[baltimorenick]

Got a call back from the technician. They are being put together right now and shipped in the morning! Turns out that only the springs are black and the shroud covers and shock bodies are chrome. I think they will look good though.