Öhlins introduces the 2.1 SD version of its popular off-road steering damper with a revised design including a new mounting system- so it can be transferred from one machine to another.
This high quality piece of off-road kit gives fantastic steering damping at all speeds and has been designed for the rugged motocross and enduro market. The damper was used to good effect recently in the brutal Dakar rally as Simon Pavey racked up his seventh finish in this super demanding event. The intrepid explorer explains, ‘This year’s Rally involved a lot of high speed sections. I was impressed with the surety the Ohlins steering damper gave me, especially when we were at a really high velocity. I also really loved the way I was able to adjust it on the fly when the conditions changed from the big sand dunes to the rocky sections. A brilliant bit of kit all round.”
The steering damper helps riders avoid crashes during sudden direction changes, minimises fatigue and arm pump whilst offering complete confidence during technical sections.
The re-designed SD 2.1 features high-speed damping when needed but gives minimum interference
at low speed due to its use of precisely created components. Thanks to its RTC damping adjuster (Return To Center), the SD 2.1 may be used by riders inexperienced with steering damping; resistance for the rider can be minimised through opening the RTC valve. Riders searching for extra support and stability in both directions can use the RTC in a more closed position to achieve added stability.
The SD 2.1 works just as effectively from a ‘straight’ handlebar position or from a steering angle ie whilst turning. The damper’s pressurised system avoids loss of damping force due to temperature changes.
Now thanks to a redesign of the unit and by use of a series of fitting kits, the damper can be ‘swapped’ from one machine to another.
Fitting kits for the SD 2.1 are available for all popular MX and Enduro models including Honda CRF R and X models, Kawasaki KX / KLX, KTM EXC / SX, Suzuki RMZ, Yamaha YZ/WR, Gas Gas, Husaberg and Husqvarna ranges.
Peter Andersson, Product Manager- MC at Öhlins commented, “Our steering damper has really intrigued many riders – steering stability is so important especially for fatigue and safety and this system is important in that respect. Simon Pavey has recently used the unit in the most arduous conditions during the Dakar and he was extremely complimentary of its performance. This new for 2013 revised unit provides even more benefits and now with its interchangeable feature can be transferred from one machine to another, a definite consideration in these financially conscious times.”