For the past couple of months I've been experimenting with an Ikon rear shock absorber on my 2008 SE.

I felt that the standard rear shock was too soft, and it certainly spent a lot of time on the bumper when I carried a pillion. I'm not a heavyweight rider, 70kg wringing wet, but I had settled with the rear shock on the 6th notch for solo use.

After looking at a couple of alternatives (Elka, Penske, Kewlmetal), I spoke to Ikon who said that they were developing a rear shock for the Spyder. The price was better than any import, and being an Australian company, I wanted to support them.

The first attempt certainly addressed the softness of the rear. I had it set up for me and my pillion and still had plenty of travel, but it was way too hard for solo riding.

The second spring fixed that nicely. On low preload it is soft enough for me alone, and on maximum it carries me an my pillion with sufficient travel.

Adjustment is by screw thread using a peg type tool at the top of the shock. Much better than the standard setup requiring a 3/8 square drive from below (but still tedious, and still needs to have the weight off the rear wheel).

The shock also has 4 levels of damping, selectable in the Ikon way by rotating a knob at the top of the shock.

Over all, I'd say they have a winner. If you are looking for a replacement rear shock, an Ikon might be what you are looking for.

Cheers;

Pogo.