At 30,000 miles the original shock on my KLR seems to be dying, the bike getting lower every day. What's the best replacement? Dual Star sells original ones for $150, which seems a nice price, while an aftermarket progressive one costs $400+. Is the extra money worthwhile, given that the bike is always heavily loaded and only used for dualsporting? Any other options?

Cheers,
James

If you can afford it and plan on keeping the bike for a while, I'd go for an aftermarket shock with more adjustability. Check that the shock is re-buildable also.

I had the same dilemma last year with my R80GS. Std shock was at least £250 with a short life span & not re-buildable. I went for a basic WP shock for £35o that can be re-built for under £100 should it fail. It's also easier to swap the spring on aftermarket shocks, not always possible with some genuine items.

Steve

The Progressive Suspension shock doesn't seem to hold up too well with riders that beat on them doing enduro rides etc.

If you want fully adjustable, look into a WP (white power) shock, they have a model that works on the KLR.

If you want to firm up the stock shock, try http://www.eshocks.com/ for a replacement straight rate spring suited to your weight, or you can use the LR series Progressive replacement spring. You may want to have the shock oil bumped up while you have it apart, a suspension shop can put 10wt or similar in it for you and add a fresh nitrogen charge.