Need Updated Input - shocks

[UltraLT]

Most of the threads on this issue are old, so I would like to reopen the issue of shocks for a 2005 LT. I have put it off way too long. I need to pull the trigger soon, but am still not sure where to aim.

Olins, Wilburs or Works?

I am not interested in making the LT ride like a sports bike. Improved handling is great, but don't want the harsh ride. I am also not interested in raising the ride height. Don't need it lowered either. These days, riding is 50/50 solo and 2 up. One big long distance (5K) fully packed ride a year, 2 up.

I am confused by all the discussion on "pre-load" and other adjustments and options some shocks offer as discussed in previous threads.

Cost is a concideration, but willing to go more than stock cost for longer life.

All comments, links, suggestions are appreciated. I have learned a bunch from this site and thank everyone in advance for their input.

Ultra LT

[fpmlt]

I'm in the same boat as you, and was doing the same checking. I e-mailed 'The Beemershop' asking about Ohlins and Wilber. Here's the response I got:

Front:$793.80 No damping adjustment, threaded spring preload adjuster
Rear $874.65 with rebound damping adjustment and hydraulic spring preload adjuster.

We can offer 10% off on both shocks.

However, the Wilbers shocks are a little better made, have custom valving to your weight and riding style (Ohlins only changes the spring for your weight) and have more features for less money. For example, the front Ohlins shock for your bike is not available with any damping adjustment. Since Wilbers are built to order, you can have a front shock with or without damping adjustment.

Here are the Wilbers prices:

Front $389.00 No damping adjustment, threaded spring preload adjuster.
-or-
Front $559.00 With rebound damping adjustment and threaded preloader.

Rear $798.00 with rebound damping adjustment and hydraulic spring preload adjuster.

Another reason to choose the Wilbers is that the hydraulic preload adjuster travels 25% further on a Wilbers shock compared to the Ohlins, so you have more load capacity on the Wilbers.

We sell both shocks so we are not biased, but we believe the Wilbers shock is a better product and it saves you some money.

Thanks for the inquiry, let us know if you need any other information or would like to place an order.

Best regards,
Ted Porter
BeemerShop
831-438-1100


I've never owned a bike with sophisticated, adjustable suspension, until now. I just bought a Yamaha FZ1, and was out playing with it and my son-in-laws FZ1. We got to adjusting rebound by 2 out of 28 clicks, thinking "how big a deal can this be?" I'm here to tell you, it was a BIG deal. Made a couple of runs getting things dialed in, and the difference between a suspension set correctly v. incorrectly is night and day. This experience was enough to sway me toward buying a suspension that's the most adjustable. I'm fairly certain that I'll be going to Wilbers this winter.

Hope that helps a little,
Frank

[jvfowler]

Ok you guys think it is time for you. I have an 01 and I am ready to do something myself. I need front and rear real soon. I wan to put them on this winter. Can we get a group buy going. I am looking at Wilburs and watching the dollar gaining ground on the Euro. Lets get together and pull the triger on these.

[UltraLT]

Count me in on Group buy. Who will spearhead this?

Ultra LT

[STARFIGHTER]

I had rears replaced under warranty but I did put Works on the front and all previous problems are gone............

[joevano]

Count me in! It's on my list for this winter. :wave

[MSal4090]

I just installed front and rear Wilburs I got from Ted and the bike has never been better. I use it for my 80 mile round trip commute to work each day and could not be happier. Once everything was off, both installs went very easy with no issues at all. While I had everything off I did a major service along with a EBC rear rotor.

The help from Ted and his group were great and the communication was second to none. I highly recommend them and will use them for further parts.

[jvfowler]

What about hyper pro. Their shocks look good. I like variable spring rates. They are at www.epmperf.com They will also build the shock to use the factory preload adjuster. They also have a 5 year waranty.

[motorhead]

Had the Wilbers on for 3 years and 35K miles ..... Could not be more satisfied, GREAT shocks that are so damn easy to adjust ride comfort, stop click click and your off with a different feel. :dance:

[rab1967]

I just installed front and rear Wilburs I got from Ted and the bike has never been better. I use it for my 80 mile round trip commute to work each day and could not be happier. Once everything was off, both installs went very easy with no issues at all. While I had everything off I did a major service along with a EBC rear rotor.

The help from Ted and his group were great and the communication was second to none. I highly recommend them and will use them for further parts.


+1 on Wilburs and the help from Ted and his shop.

[jvfowler]

Well UltraLT it looks like you and me. I don't think that will count much for a volume discount do you?

[UltraLT]

I guess not. I think I have decided on Wilburs and will contact them and see what it is gonna cost me. I am hoping I can get some help from someone local to help install. Thanks for your input.

Ultra LT

[jvfowler]

See if we cab get a discoun on two sets. I am ready to buy now.

[sheldan2]

I am hoping I can get some help from someone local to help install.

I don't think that would be a problem if you brought donuts....

[jvfowler]

Well North Carolina thats not that far from KY. I go there quite a bit as I have a son at Lejune.

[KMC1]

You guys might want to check out this thread for info on the Hyperpros. I really like them on my 03 and the service was excellent.

Hyperpro Feedback (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=32856)

[sydvicioustx]

you can add a 3rd to that list. I need new ones on my 05 with 45k on it. Looks like Wilbers are cheaper and just as good as the others. Have you bought yet?

[UltraLT]

Syd,
Not yet. Looking at buying a GT first. That's plan A. Buying shocks is plan B.

Looks like it will be shocks at this point. Don't think 3 is enough for a good group buy. Keep in touch.

Rich