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How we reviewed it: this review is research-based, built from manufacturer specifications, safety certifications and owner feedback rather than a long-term test. How we research.
The Progressive 412 is Progressive Suspension’s best-value shock and one of the most popular Harley rear shock upgrades, with more than 900 owner reviews on RevZilla. It uses a double-wall steel body, nitrogen charging and multi-stage velocity-sensitive valving, with a simple five-position preload adjuster and a choice of standard or heavy-duty springs. It doesn’t have adjustable damping, so riders who want a more sophisticated ride should look at the 444 or 494. Here’s what the 412 offers, who it suits and how it compares.
Progressive 412 specs
| Body | Double-wall steel |
|---|---|
| Gas charge | High-pressure nitrogen |
| Damping | Multi-stage velocity-sensitive valving (not adjustable) |
| Preload | 5-position cam-style adjuster |
| Springs | Progressive rate; Standard or Heavy-Duty (250+ lbs) |
| Finish | Chrome or black |
| Fitment | Versions for Touring, Dyna and Sportster models; several lengths |
| Warranty | One-year limited |
| Made in | USA; sold as a pair |
| Listed price (Touring) | $379.95 at RevZilla at the time of writing |
What the Progressive 412 does well
Better damping than worn stock shocks
The 412’s velocity-sensitive valving changes damping with how fast the shock moves, so small bumps and big hits are handled differently. Nitrogen charging helps keep damping consistent as the shock heats up on long rides. For riders on tired stock shocks, that’s usually a clear improvement in comfort and control.
Easy preload for solo or two-up
The five-position cam-style adjuster lets you add preload quickly when you carry a passenger or luggage, then back it off when you ride solo.
Choice of spring rate
Progressive offers standard and heavy-duty springs. It recommends heavy-duty shocks for bikes that run at or near the OEM maximum load more than half the time, and lists heavy-duty for 250+ lbs.
Value
Progressive calls the 412 its best-value shock. It costs far less than the 444 and is made in the USA.
Limitations
- No damping adjustment: you can only change preload.
- Short warranty: one year, compared with the 494’s limited lifetime warranty.
- Length matters: stock Harley shocks are around 12″ to 13″ depending on model. Progressive warns that changing length changes ride height and handling, and you must check clearances to the swingarm, frame, tire, fender and belt.
412 versions for other Harleys
Progressive 412 for Dyna
The Dyna version covers 1991–2017 Dynas, with the same construction and preload adjuster.
Progressive 412 for Sportster
Sportster owners can get the 412 for 2004–2022 models, including heavy-duty versions.
Progressive 412 vs 444 vs 494
| 412 | 444 (FST) | 494 Sport | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body | Double-wall steel | Check listing | Aluminum monotube, high-pressure gas |
| Damping | Velocity-sensitive, fixed | Frequency Sensing Technology adjusts automatically | Deflective disc, adjustable rebound |
| Preload | 5-position cam | Hand-threaded, no tool needed | Hand-threaded |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | Check listing | Limited lifetime |
| Listed price (Touring) | $379.95 | $860.95 | Check listing |
Progressive 444: the comfort upgrade
The 444 uses Progressive’s Frequency Sensing Technology, which senses the frequency of a bump and automatically adjusts damping. It has hand-adjustable threaded preload, a progressive-rate spring and deflective disc valving, and comes in Super Duty versions for over 350 lbs of rider, passenger and gear. It costs more than twice as much as the 412.
Progressive 494 Sport: the adjustable option
The 494 is a high-pressure gas monotube shock with an aluminum body, deflective disc damping and adjustable rebound, plus hand-adjustable preload and a jounce bumper to control bottoming. Each shock is hand-built and dyno-tested, with a limited lifetime warranty.
Who should buy the Progressive 412?
- Riders replacing worn stock shocks on a budget.
- Riders who switch between solo and two-up and want easy preload.
- Owners who don’t want to fiddle with damping settings.
- Tall or heavier riders who need firmer support; see also our guide to the best motorcycles for tall riders.
If you tour two-up with heavy bags, consider the 444, or look at air ride for Harley Touring if you want adjustable ride height. Loading up for a trip? See our Viking Cycle bags guide and our motorcycle touring checklist. For fitment help, check Progressive Suspension.
Installation tips
- Support the bike securely so the rear wheel is unloaded before removing shocks.
- Torque the mounting bolts to the service manual spec. Upgrading other parts at the same time? See the best performance exhausts for Harley-Davidson.
- Set preload for your load, then check sag and ride height.
New to wrenching? Read our tips on working on a motorcycle.
FAQ
Are Progressive 412 shocks good?
They’re a popular, good-value upgrade over worn stock shocks, with easy preload adjustment. They don’t offer damping adjustment.
Should I get standard or heavy-duty 412s?
Progressive recommends heavy-duty for bikes run at or near maximum load more than half the time, and lists heavy-duty for 250+ lbs.
Will 412 shocks lower my Harley?
They come in different lengths. Choosing a shorter length lowers the bike but reduces travel; check clearances first.
What’s the difference between the 412 and 444?
The 444 uses Frequency Sensing Technology that adjusts damping automatically, and costs much more.
Verdict
The Progressive 412 remains the best-value Harley shock upgrade: simple, durable, made in the USA and easy to adjust for load. Choose the 444 if you want a plusher ride that adapts to the road, or the 494 if you want adjustable rebound and a lifetime warranty.
Browse all our accessory guides.
