We class this shock as giving a less than firm ride
As a general rule
Hard means for an average bike with an average user weight using the bike within it's limits and operating the bike onroad the overal ride will be very hard or very firm without much give or spring
Firm means for an average bike with an average user weight using the bike within it's limits and operating the bike onroad the overal ride will be firm but with some small movement
Less than firm means for an average bike with an average user weight using the bike within it's limits and operating the bike onroad the overal ride will be more comfortable with more give and more spring / damper movement
Soft means for an average bike with an average user weight using the bike within it's limits and operating the bike onroad the overal ride will be more springy with alot more give, and less damping.
Within these guidelines if any of the variables such as bike size, user weight and usage differs to that described, then so will the general performance.