That's the problem with the pop and expand shipping foam. No two packaging will be the same. It works for most, but there is no way for Ohlins to ensure consistency in their packing.

 

Here is a proposal. Wrap those shocks up in freaking paper. I think the extra effort in putting some decent packaging would do wonders instead of "Hey this is how I got them, This is what you get Bud" attitude.

 

Valid points, and I can see where you're coming form here.

To be clear, my reference to Howard's expertise, or by calling him a suspension wizard was not based on the what he does with the Ohlins, but his overall knowledge of motorcycle suspension, and handling. I believe the re-woking of shocks is a small part in what he does. Shocks, forks, braking systems, I believe that's all part of his business. Maybe calling him a wizard was a stretch, but I truly believe he's one of the most knowledgable in the HD suspension business.


All that said, I have never purchased, nor do I own anything Howard has worked on, so I can't speak of his wok first hand. I have read plenty of reviews (good and bad), and have spoken to people on some of there various services and parts Howard offers, and everyone say basically the same thing.... "He can be an interesting person to deal with, but he knows his $h!t"

Also, to be clear, I completely understand where you are coming from, and can't say its unreasonable.

 

There is way more to damping than you think.. IIRC Ohlins are primarily 2 speed systems. Low speed is nothing more than an orifice like a stock shock. The second speed is a complex series of deflecting shims that control the when the valve opens and what the damping response is based on velocity. There are also 2 sets of valves/ orifices. One for compression one for rebound.. Getting all of that right requires a bit of knowledge / experience.

 

I found dealing with Howard a great learning experience. He knows his business. My FXDB is fully adjustable and can be tuned for any road I have come across. Thanks Howard for a super setup. Joe

 

This is cool.. Could you expand upon what changes you make for the different conditions?

Thanks.

 

Ok, understood. Much more involved than simply swapping valve assemblies.