Typically, in motorsports, ELKA is a second tier shock. Ohlins, KYB, Showa, Penske and even Fox are the superior products. However, saying that, there are few choices in aftermarket Spyder suspension.
As an all around suspension supplier, Fox is involved in not only Spyders, but off road buggies and trucks, military vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and sleds, plus probably more. In most cases, Fox has a very good handle on high performance along with longevity, including seals and fluids.
Ela fits the bill for many Spyder owners. I was leaning towards Elkas years ago, but being a long time suspension tuner for motorcycles, my conversation with Elka steered me away from their product. I kept is simple and went with BRP accessory Fox units, which out of the box have been superb. Many people insist they need the various clickers to fine tune their shocks, but honestly, once set there is no true need for additional adjustments. Internally our Fox suspension they did a really good job on the shim stacks and spring rates, and saying that I did not even adjust the preload collars or consider revalving them.
I recall reading about a bunch of Elkas having failed main seals and leaking. Word was there were some defective somethings that caused this. Not sure what specifically or how they corrected it, possibly this is what you are seeing referred to more commonly.
