Any experiences you can share about Elka vs Wilber rear shocks?

[Circ]

I recently replaced my OEM front shocks with Elka's. I won't go into detail about the garbage I removed, but I will say the upgrade was worth every penny. I never believed I would say that, because they are frighteningly expensive, but they improved the handling immensely and even helped mitigate the unforgivable nanny braking. Did not eliminate it, but brought it into a manageable and predictable zone.
I plan to replace the rear shock and would like to know if anyone has done so with Wilber's. I realize the Elka rear might be more closely matched to the fronts, but the remote adjustability appeals to me.
Thanks in advance for your 'EXPERIENCED' response.

 

[Dansy]

I have done the Elka front/back on both our bikes, huge difference! They also both have the Lamonster Garage red Swaybar set on the stiff setting…

 

[Peter Aawen]

@Circ, if you want something just as good (possibly better??) than the Elkas &/or Wilburs, but generally not so expensive, there are other offerings out there. For example, search here on SpyderLovers for IKON, or go to:

IKON Suspension USA

The Best Aftermarket Motorcycle Shock Manufacturer In The World

ikonsuspensionusa.com

Do note that with the Ikon site, frequently (as with many other places/sites), not ALL the shocks they offer are shown on/in their on-line catalogue, so if you can't find what you want there, give them a call and talk to them! But I think you'll find all the Ikon part numbers/details you need are already posted here on the Forum, so some searching and reading can help!

 

[Mikey]

I recently replaced my OEM front shocks with Elka's. I won't go into detail about the garbage I removed, but I will say the upgrade was worth every penny. I never believed I would say that, because they are frighteningly expensive, but they improved the handling immensely and even helped mitigate the unforgivable nanny braking. Did not eliminate it, but brought it into a manageable and predictable zone.
I plan to replace the rear shock and would like to know if anyone has done so with Wilber's. I realize the Elka rear might be more closely matched to the fronts, but the remote adjustability appeals to me.
Thanks in advance for your 'EXPERIENCED' response.

Remote adjustability is a nice feature, but for the normal person that is riding like a sane man how much are you going to adjust it? Most people don't adjust any more once they find a setting, you just ride it! I have adjustable shocks on my sleds, and I find that I don't mess with them as much as I thought I would! But anyway, Elka has the remote option if you so think you need them! I put the Stage 2 on my last bike, it was well worth the money!! Whatever you decide to do will be a big improvement to what you have now.

 

[troop]

No experience with Elka, but I have a Wilbers rear shock on my 2022 RT S2S, and also had them on my past F3S. The quality of Wilbers is impeccable!! material and craftsmanship is first rate. They are totally built to your specs with both specific spring rates and valving. I had the remote preload adjuster on my F3S, but not on my RT S2S. I am a 100% solo rider so not needed. That said, if you're a 50/50 solo/passenger rider, I would recommend the remote preload adjuster. Going from 200 lbs > 350lbs (or more) greatly changes ride quality. And if you have a RT/F3L/F3T, forget about adjusting the rear preload without the remote. Wilbers has gone up a bit in $$ since the tariff. EPM Performance does offer military/first responder discounts. Both EPM Performance and Ted Porter are authorized USA Wilbers dealers, and will perform warranty and servicing.