Aprilia SL-1000 Shock Absorbers

	Manufacturer:	Ohlins (NL)
	Type:	DeCarbon with piggy-back reservoir
	Adjustments:	preload, rebound, compression

Ohlins has a shock for the Falco. The part number is AP 941 46 PRC. Ohlins typically selects one model shock for a given bike, taking a guess at what the price point of the bike and riding style needs. Unfortunately, this may be a compromise (just like the stock shock) as no two people are alike. I believe this particular model has preload, compression and rebound damping adjustment, with a piggy back reservoir. No remote reservoir, remote hydraulic preload adjustment, or ride height adjustment. There are US sources, such as Mototek. You used to be able to import the shock from Wim Kroon Import in the Netherlands, for about $505 plus $25 shipping, but I believe Ohlins has put a stop to this because the pricing was too low compared to US dealers ($800 or more).

Pros:

• Ohlins has a reputation for making a shock that is never harsh under any conditions.
• Their parts are reportedly the highest quality, which means less frequent rebuilds.

Cons:

• At least one user has complained that the damping on this particular shock fades during an aggressive ride.
• You pay for setting up the shock if it is shipped with an unacceptable spring rate or damping characteristic.
• No ride height increase, a need for this bike.

 

	Manufacturer:	Penske (USA)
	Type:	DeCarbon with remote reservoir (cheaper emulsion option available from Traxxion Dynamics)
	Adjustments:	preload, rebound, compression (several options), ride height

Penske has fitted a shock to an SL-1000, Penske's base model (one compression adjustment) lists at $725. Their base shock (8100 series) has preload, compression , rebound and ride height adjustment, with a remote reseroir. Two premium options are also available to increase compression damping adjustability.

Pros:

• Has ride height adjustment, although its use may be limited by chain/swingarm-to-pipe clearance.
• Penske will revalve and swap springs at no charge for a short period after you buy the shock.
• Shocks are upgradable to more clicks of compression adjustability, or even separate high and low speed control.

Cons:

• Shocks were shipped with very short reservoir hoses, limiting placement. (But hose swaps are free too).
• At least one user thinks the shock is a bit harsh on sharp bumps.

Here's some pictures of the Penske shock on Javier's bike  click on images to enlarge

More Penske info
I've installed a Penske on my bike. Read my report before ordering.

New Product Option
Max McAllister of Traxxion Dynamics has arranged a deal with Penske to sell their 8900 series race shock in emulsion form, without the remote reservoir. Called the "Sport Shock", it will still offer adjustable ride height and rebound damping, and can be upgraded at any time with a 8100 or 8700 reservoir if compression adjustability is desired. This is supposed to be available for limited applications, but they are going to try to make the shock for as many models as possible. At $550 (free shipping) it comes with a spring rate for your weight.

Traxxion Dynamics offers an 8900 Penske racing body with the reservoir port blocked off

	Manufacturer:	Works Performance
	Type:	DeCarbon with piggy-back reservoir (plus cheaper emulsion option)
	Adjustments:	preload, rebound, compression (on DeCarbon)

Works Performance is reported to have two shocks for the Falco now. Their standard upgrade unit, and a premium unit with remote reseroir and adjustable compression and rebound. Their website does not yet list Aprilia applications, but US pricing is likely to be $480 standard, $699 premium).

	Manufacturer:	Technoflex (NL)
	Type:	DeCarbon with piggy-back or remote reservoir
	Adjustments:	preload (remote available), rebound, compression (high and low speed)

Technoflex (Netherlands) hase a Falco shock now. I am not familiar with their company, but their website shows a good selection of competition quality, rebuildable shocks with a large adjustment range. Typical remote reservoir units are priced at EU 591. Piggyback sells for EU 745. Remote preload adjustment is available. A good Falco unit with optional preload adjustment and separate high and low speed compression adjustment is US$630.

NEW (Added September 25, 2001)
Hugo has installed a Technoflex on his Falco

Here's a picture of the Technoflex shock on Hugo's bike (Click on image to enlarge)

	Manufacturer:	Fox (USA)
	Type:	DeCarbon with remote reservoir
	Adjustments:	preload, rebound, compression, ride height

Fox has fitted a shock to an RSV, so they may have an SL-1000 application soon. Fox shocks typically list for $599 or $735 depending on the type but are often discounted.