Just got my new sporty 1200 and was wondering about better shockers that will suit solo rides and weekends away with wifey and some luggage options. I figure there will be someone  who will be able to offer up some good ideas

On my old Sporty I had Ikon Shocks, Australian and bloody great.

 yep +1 ikons great shocks and fork springs

I heard about " progressive 412 series " shockers which are supposed to be the best and costing about $420. Have any of you guys heard of them.

I've got to recommend Ikon, although I haven't changed my shocks, the factory is about 500m from my house and the owner is very approachable about any and all issues, and has bent over backwards to help me out with other issues on occasion.

Try J.C. Motors in U.S. They sell progressive shocks , approx $200 for 412 series , $400 for 430 series delivered to your door .

 My ikon shocks & fork springs work for what your asking, thats all I need, 20,000kms.

 

I've also got Progressive 412 on the rear of the Nightster. So much better than stock shocks.

just try to get my head around the different models of Preogressive Suspension...

412/430/440 - can anybody explain the differences?

Looking at the JC Motors website it says under 412 and 430: Heavy duty spring for two up riding or riders over 200lbs/90kg
Does that mean these are too stiff for single rider setup?

and can someone give advice on the actual length of the suspension? What is the lowest you cna go without running into clrearence problems between fender and tire? 11" or 11,5"?

 I  have Ikons on my sportster front and back happy with them

Check out youtube , JC Motors explain the different types of progressive shocks really well .Heavy duty springs are indeed ,heavy duty , made for large yanks.