Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks Review From My Experience: Is It Worth It?

You should grab Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks to revolutionize your Harley Touring bike’s performance and style.
This heavy-duty, low-riding suspension delivers unmatched handling and a sleek, slammed stance.
My experience, detailed pros, cons, maintenance tips, and comparisons will guide you to decide if it’s your next upgrade.
With patented damping and easy adjustments, it’s perfect for confident cruising.
Buy them now to elevate your ride and conquer every road with swagger!

My Experience with Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks: A Game-Changing Upgrade

Last spring, my 2017 Harley Road Glide Special felt sluggish, with stock shocks bottoming out on rough roads.
I splurged $650 on Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks, designed for heavy-duty riders (250+ pounds) and compatible with 1986-2018 Touring models.
The 12.5-inch shocks dropped my bike to 11 inches, giving it a menacing, low-slung look that drew stares at every gas station.
Installation was a breeze—I swapped them in my garage in under an hour, no special tools needed.
On my first ride, the Frequency Sensing Technology (FST) damping absorbed potholes effortlessly, making a 200-mile trip through winding canyons feel smooth and controlled.
You’ll love how these shocks hug curves, keeping your tires planted during aggressive leans.
I pushed them on a 500-mile Sturgis rally ride with my 250-pound buddy riding pillion, and the heavy-duty rating handled the load without sagging.
Analytically, the deflective disc valving, per Progressive’s patented design, isolates wheel movement from chassis sway, reducing rider fatigue on long hauls.
My wife, with her 5’2” frame, found the lowered stance made mounting and dismounting at stoplights a breeze.
I tested them on a gravel shortcut, and while not off-road champs, they managed minor bumps better than stock.
The black finish matched my bike’s vibe, but I craved a chrome option for extra flair.
You’ll feel like you’re riding a sportbike with cruiser comfort.
After 5,000 miles, I adjusted the preload by hand for a softer feel, as the stock heavy-duty springs felt stiff on solo rides.
My mechanic friend swapped to softer springs for his 200-pound frame, a quick fix via Progressive’s customer service.
During a rainy ride, the shocks maintained grip, but I noticed slight corrosion on bolts, prompting regular cleaning.
You’ll want to tweak settings for your weight and riding style.
My group rides through twisty backroads were a blast—the shocks kept my Harley stable at 70 mph.
My only gripe was the lack of printed instructions; I relied on online forums.
You’ll appreciate the durability but may need patience for initial stiffness.
This upgrade transformed my Harley into a confident, head-turning machine.

Maintenance Tips for Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks: Keep Them Rolling Smooth

• Adjust Preload Monthly: Match rider weight: My rides stayed balanced.
• Inspect Seals Weekly: Check for leaks: My shocks remained dry.
• Clean Dust Boots: Wipe road grime: My seals lasted longer.
• Torque Bolts After Rides: Post-500 miles: My install stayed secure.
• Lubricate Pivot Points: Grease fittings: My movement was smooth.
• Monitor Ride Height: Ensure 11-inch stance: My low look held.
• Avoid Overloading Bike: Respect 250-pound limit: My springs stayed strong.
• Store Upright in Garage: Prevent dust: My shocks stayed clean.
• Check Bushing Wear: Inspect annually: My replacements were timely.
• Ride Gently Over Bumps: Extend lifespan: My shocks endured longer.

Maintenance is straightforward.
Adjust Preload Monthly balances: Rides stay smooth.
Inspect Seals Weekly secures: Shocks stay dry.
Clean Dust Boots protects: Seals last long.
Torque Bolts After Rides tightens: Install stays solid.
Lubricate Pivot Points smooths: Movement stays easy.
Monitor Ride Height maintains: Stance stays low.
Avoid Overloading Bike strengthens: Springs hold up.
Store Upright in Garage cleans: Dust stays away.
Check Bushing Wear replaces: Wear caught early.
Ride Gently Over Bumps extends: Lifespan grows longer.

You’ll keep your shocks performing with these practical tips.

Why Suspension Upgrades Like Progressive 944 Matter: Redefining Your Ride

A quality suspension transforms your Harley’s handling, comfort, and style.
My Road Glide went from bumpy to buttery smooth with the 944 Ultra Touring Shocks.
You’ll want shocks that absorb road imperfections and lower your bike for easier control.
The patented FST technology, per Progressive’s engineering, ensures dynamic damping for varied terrains.
My long rides felt less taxing, and my bike’s aggressive stance boosted my confidence.
You need an upgrade that blends performance with aesthetics—these shocks deliver both for Touring riders.

Long-Term Use of Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks: Built for the Long Haul

After 7,000 miles over eight months, my 944 shocks show no signs of wear, maintaining their sleek black finish despite road salt and rain.
You’ll get years of reliable performance with proper care.
My friend’s set has lasted six years with regular maintenance, handling his 300-pound load.
Analytically, the high-pressure gas charging ensures consistent damping, but bolts need corrosion checks.
I adjusted preload twice for group rides, keeping the ride smooth.
You’ll find these shocks a durable investment, but stay proactive with upkeep.

Integrating Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks: A Seamless Upgrade for Your Harley

Installing the 944 shocks was a straightforward DIY project, taking an hour with basic tools.
I adjusted the preload by hand to suit my 220-pound frame and solo rides.
You’ll find them easy to integrate into your Touring bike, enhancing daily commutes or long tours.
My canyon rides felt more controlled, though the initial stiffness required tweaking.
You need shocks that adapt to your style—these do with minimal effort.
My wife loved the lowered seat height for easier stops.
Your Harley will feel like a custom ride with this upgrade.

Pros and Cons of Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks

Pros of Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks: Why They Shine

• Slammed Stance: Drops 2 inches: My Harley’s look turned heads.
• Superior Damping: FST absorbs shocks: My back stayed pain-free.
• Heavy-Duty Support: Handles 250+ pounds: My passenger rode comfy.
• Effortless Install: Bolt-on simplicity: My garage swap was quick.
• Patented Valving: Deflective discs stabilize: My chassis felt solid.
• Progressive Springs: Adjusts to load: My rides stayed controlled.
• Sleek Black Finish: Matches aesthetics: My bike’s vibe was perfect.
• Hand-Adjustable Preload: No tools needed: My tweaks were easy.
• Long-Lasting Build: 5k miles, no wear: My investment held strong.
• Enhanced Cornering: Grips turns: My leans were confident.

The pros are unbeatable.
Slammed Stance impresses: Harley looks fierce.
Superior Damping comforts: Back feels great.
Heavy-Duty Support supports: Passenger rides easy.
Effortless Install simplifies: Swap is fast.
Patented Valving stabilizes: Chassis stays steady.
Progressive Springs controls: Rides are smooth.
Sleek Black Finish matches: Bike looks sharp.
Hand-Adjustable Preload eases: Tweaks are quick.
Long-Lasting Build endures: Investment lasts long.
Enhanced Cornering grips: Leans feel solid.

You’ll ride with confidence and style, no matter the road.

Cons of Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks: Where They Stumble

• Initial Stiffness: Too firm for some: My solo rides felt jarring.
• No Chrome Finish: Black-only design: My custom style was limited.
• Spring Swap Cost: Softer springs extra: My wallet took a hit.
• Pricey Upfront: $650 investment: My budget felt stretched.
• Not Off-Road Ready: Resort use only: My gravel paths struggled.
• Heavy-Duty Overkill: Stiff for solo: My daily commutes bumped.
• Vague Warranty Terms: Lifetime limited: My coverage was unclear.
• Break-In Required: Initial firmness: My first 500 miles adjusted.
• No Printed Manual: Online reliance: My install needed research.
• Slight Weight Gain: Adds pounds: My handling felt heavier.

The cons are noticeable.
Initial Stiffness jars: Solo rides bumpy.
No Chrome Finish limits: Style feels basic.
Spring Swap Cost hits: Wallet feels pain.
Pricey Upfront stretches: Budget feels tight.
Not Off-Road Ready restricts: Paths are limited.
Heavy-Duty Overkill bumps: Solo rides stiff.
Vague Warranty Terms unclear: Coverage is vague.
Break-In Required delays: Rides need time.
No Printed Manual researches: Install needs online.
Slight Weight Gain heavies: Handling feels altered.

You’ll love the performance, but plan for tweaks and costs.

Also Read: Comparison Of Bilstein 6112 Vs. 5100 Shocks

Comparison with Other Brands: Progressive 944’s Road-Dominating Edge

• Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks Vs. Legend Revo-A Shocks

Legend Revo-A shocks, priced at $900, offer adjustable rebound damping, unlike the Progressive 944’s fixed setup.
My Legend shocks provided a softer ride for long cruises; Progressive’s were firmer for sporty handling.
Progressive’s 11-inch stance is lower than Legend’s 12-13 inches, enhancing my bike’s aggressive look.
Legend’s lifetime warranty feels clearer; Progressive’s is vague.
You’ll pick Legend for customizable comfort, Progressive for a budget-friendly low stance.
Legend’s coil-over design excels in adjustability; Progressive’s gas-charged FST prioritizes stability.
Progressive’s install was simpler; Legend often requires a shop.
Choose Legend for premium tuning, Progressive for value and style.

• Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks Vs. Ohlins HD 044 Shocks

Ohlins HD 044 shocks, at $1,200, boast adjustable compression and rebound, outshining Progressive’s preload-only adjustments.
My Ohlins delivered a plush ride on highways; Progressive’s 944 handled twisties better.
Progressive’s ultra-low 11-inch height beat Ohlins’ stock 13 inches for style.
Ohlins’ premium materials felt luxe; Progressive’s build was solid but basic.
You’ll choose Ohlins for ultimate customization, Progressive for affordability and stance.
Ohlins’ mono-tube design is responsive; Progressive’s twin-tube is stable.
Progressive’s DIY install was easier; Ohlins needed professional help.
Pick Ohlins for high-end performance, Progressive for cost-effective touring.

• Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks Vs. Viking Warrior Shocks

Viking Warrior Shocks, at $500, are cheaper than Progressive’s $650, offering nitrogen-charged damping.
My Viking shocks were budget-friendly but less refined; Progressive’s FST tech absorbed bumps better.
Progressive’s 11-inch drop was lower than Viking’s adjustable 12-14 inches.
Viking’s warranty is shorter; Progressive’s lasts longer.
You’ll pick Viking for cost savings, Progressive for superior touring performance.
Viking’s broader fit suits more bikes; Progressive’s Touring-specific design excels.
Progressive’s progressive springs outshine Viking’s standard coils.
Choose Viking for affordability, Progressive for low-riding quality.

• Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks Vs. Burly Brand Slammer Shocks

Burly Brand Slammer shocks, at $400, focus on lowering like Progressive’s 944 but use basic damping.
My Burly shocks dropped my bike low but felt harsh; Progressive’s FST was smoother.
Progressive’s heavy-duty rating handled passengers better; Burly’s suited solo riders.
Burly’s price is lower; Progressive’s premium.
You’ll choose Burly for budget lowering, Progressive for comfort and performance.
Burly’s steel construction is sturdy; Progressive’s lighter materials aid handling.
Progressive’s springs adapt better; Burly’s are basic.
Pick Burly for cheap style, Progressive for touring excellence.

• Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks Vs. Legend Aero-A Shocks

Legend Aero-A shocks, at $1,500, use air suspension, unlike Progressive’s coil-based 944.
My Legend Aero-A offered a cloud-like ride; Progressive’s was firmer but sportier.
Progressive’s 11-inch stance is lower than Legend’s adjustable 12-14 inches.
Legend’s premium air system feels luxe; Progressive’s gas-charged is reliable.
You’ll pick Legend for adjustable comfort, Progressive for affordability and stance.
Legend’s price is steep; Progressive’s budget-friendly.
Progressive’s FST tech excels in stability; Legend’s air adjusts dynamically.
Choose Legend for luxury, Progressive for practical performance.

Also Read: Worst Strut Brands To Avoid In 2025 And Why

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

Progressive 944 Ultra Touring Shocks are a must for Harley riders craving a low, high-performance ride.
You’ll love the sleek stance and smooth handling on every tour.
My bike transformed into a confident cruiser, and yours can too.
Buy them now to upgrade your suspension and rule the road!