Thanks so much for reaching out Jay - sorry for the delay in my response - things have been crazy at work of late. I s/w Ryan and CSC and decided to go with the Progressive shock - figured - it's a 2-3 mm difference in length but will offer much more in the way of adjustability if there is any issue with harshness.
Thank you so much for the feedback as it's great to hear from a like weighted rider about how the stock shock performs. My last episode with the Triumph Tiger was a disaster - spent $16K on the bike with an aftermarket Ohlins shock and ended up selling it 6 months later for $11.5K with only 3600 miles on the odometer.
As Dan has now modified his bike, it's likely I won't fit on it - higher tires and custom high seat so I would have to find another one and they are sparse in my area (CT). So hoping the Progressive shock will do the trick - figure that $500.00 is a small price to pay to keep my spine intact.
Hi Victoria. Writing here so as to not stir things up. Spud had mentioned early on that the shock on his RX3 was too soft and under damped. JB's issue sounds just the opposite, almost like locked up. The ride on mine is nice, and I'm under 140 lbs. I've thought about playing with the shock, but have had no reason to. Considering the shock is likely from some supplier to Zongshen, their quality control my be rather dodgy. Hopefully Dan can get you on his bike soon. You'll get the full ergo feel and also the ride sensation. I want pics of your post-ride grin. Jay.