I've only recently purchased my 2010 Sportster 883 Custom (my first Harley!) and love it.
However, I'm over 60 and have to say that on my first one hour plus ride I found the rear shocks (standard factory ones) gave a very uncomfortable ride. I've adjusted the pre-load onto the third notch (which is supposedly correct for my 86kg weight). I think the problem is that the rear (11.5" ?) shocks only povide 2.5" of Shock movement, which isn't much at all on the rough roads that are the norm in the north west of Australia where I live.
I'm thinking of trying a set of Progressive 412's in the 13.5" size, but a couple of questions: 1) simplisticly, do these provide an additional 2" of Shock movement (or doesn't it work that way), and 2) if these provide additional movement will this cause any problems in rear wheel travel (i.e. will the wheel snag anything with increased movement)?
NB: I do realise these 13.5" Shock units will increase the height at the rear which to some people will ruin the looks - sorry, at my age a bit more comfort is more important

Thanks Steamer,

I did not relaise Ikon would make different length shocks to order.

I'd also prefer to buy Oz', but on the listed prices suitable Ikons are nearly double the price (including freight to Broome, WA) of the Progressive 412's. I'm sure the Ikon is a better Shock (and it does have adjustable rebound damping, which is not on the Progressive's) but don't know whether my wallet is deep enough for spending on my toy.

I have a set of 12" 412`s for sale brand new in box, were on bike for 5 mins, way too low, $260 delivered.

I put on a set of 440's, 11.5" on my wifes' 48 and they work just fine. I got them from J&P, in the states for about $500.00 landed.

I had the same problem with my 2007 Sportster Low.  The bike scraped and bottomed out easily, especially with two up.  I put 12" progressive shocks on the rear and fitted progressive springs in the forks with 20w fork oil instead of the 10w put in at the factory.  It made a huge difference and the bike is much more comfortable and rides and handles much better.  Cost was less than $400.00 all up as I did the work myself.  I got the parts from the USA via Ebay.  If you are reasonably competent with a spanner it will only take about 2 hours to do, just follow the instructions and use a workshop manual.

Tmode. 

Thanks all for the valueable feedback.

I have contacted Progressive and Ikon by email with a query on a point I'm uncertain of - i.e.  Standard shocks are 11.5" (with 2.5" of travel)  - if I go to (say) a 13.5" then does that increase the suspension travel or simply have same length spring with a longer rod?

If all the longer shock will do is increase the height of the static bike, then I'm not interested.

I shall report back with their responses.

i have ikon front and rear same bike as yours,recommend them.