What is the difference betwen Ohlins BM 551 and BM 881?

[Sandback]

I have received a plethora (word of the day, and I get bonus points for using it in the opening sentence... :histerica ) of recommendations for replacing my aging OEM shocks wth Ohlins prior to my ALCAN road trip in July.

I have been researching whether I can get the shocks in time to install them before I depart, and it appears that it is going to be very close.

I have one vendor that has BM 551s (not the BM 881s that hard racing.com recommends). After going to Ohlins USA, I find that both are suitable for use on my 01 K1200LT. The only differences listed n the tech sheet was on the "Rate" and the spring. The RATE on the 551 was 200, and on the 851 was 180. The spring on the 551 was 01099-84, while the spring on the 851 was 01099-74. The same question applies to the fron shocks (BM 540 and BM 539).

I am probably shouting out my ignorance, however I really would like to know the difference between these. 75% of my riding is solo, however the ALCAN trip will be with pillion and full luggage.

Thanks,
Scott

[jrlakin]

I got my Ohlin's at Kyle Racing, and they can tell you exactly what you need for you bike and riding situation. Call them.

http://www.shop.kyleusa.com/main.sc

[BennyBob]

The higher spring rate is a heavier duty spring, presumably for heavier average loads. A good vendor will get you what you need based on your weight, pillion weight, luggage weight, % of riding time (1 up,2 up, loaded) and riding style. I've heard good things about Kyle Racing, several forum members have bought their Ohlins from them.

[haughty]

Well,
I did look at this site....
SHocking shocks (http://www.hardracing.com/Shocks%20&%20Steering%20Damp/OhlinsPricing.htm)


I cannot say the price, but it is a good one. (not the one advertised) Said they will meet or beat any price out there....

the email will explain after contact.

check it out ( in no way associated, but may buy if there is not a better price)

[simoncharles]

Of interest

http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=28812&highlight=ohlins+sweden

[VRodPete]

Hard Racing or Kyle Racing should be recommending which shock will work, and it sounds like Hard Racing already gave you the answer. IMHO the 551 is only necessary for VERY heavy loads, and then only if they are on most of the time.

[BennyBob]

FWIW, the spring on the BM 851 is heavier than the stock BMW spring. :bmw: