Ask The Editors: Why No Love From Öhlins?
Dear ATVC:
I used to race supersport street bikes and was very impressed with the performance of Öhlins suspension. I was looking at upgrading to these shocks for my Yamaha Banshee but can’t seem to be able to find anything about them, even on Öhlins’ official site! Öhlins does make ATV suspension, correct? If so where can I get the skinny on the shocks?
Good question! Our first stop was to Öhlins’ official site and indeed; looking up specific products directs you to the firm’s parent site (Sweden).
Once there we were able to locate products menus but as they are broken down into three categories (Motorcycle, Automotive and Consumer Electronics) it appears as though we lowly ATV riders got the ol shock shaft.
Though they can’t be found on the Öhlins’ sites, the company does indeed offer ATV shocks. Try searching “Type 36PC YA 616” for the fronts and “KT 972” for the rear.
Better yet, should you happen to find yourself anywhere near the mountains of Western North Carolina on Saturday, May 12, 2012, you can actually visit Öhlins USA to celebrate their 15-year history/ 36th year of Öhlins Racing AB. There will be very cool displays and live bands, food will be available for purchase and there will be a prize drawing for cool giveaways that includes a Grand Prize brand new shock. Local Öhlins dealers and service centers will be present to fulfill your personal suspension needs. The Öhlins USA Open House is Saturday, May 12, 2012, 10am-3pm, rain, shine or meteor shower, at 703C S. Grove St, Hendersonville, 28792. Phone is 800-336-9029.
While you’re there, ask them why the ATV line is all but absent from their sites for us.
