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SHOCK TEST RESULTIf anybody should know about shock absorber performance, it’s a tyre manufacturer - the two products interact so closely.Michelin tests its tyres using BMW R100RS and KI00 “rolling testbeds” with highly experienced riders; this is what they have to say about Fournales shock absorbers. “Dear Sirs,“Following our recent Conversation, I am confirming to you with the enclosed examples our entire satisfaction with the life expectancy of your shock absorbers, especially since they are used under very punishing conditions on very poor roads (in the area of Corbieres), and at an average speed of 80 km/h. “Our riders are all extremely happy with the roadholding, the adjustability and the performance. “Regards etc, C. Ferret”Attached to this letter were details of shock absorber fitment to seven bikes, four R100RS’s and three K100’s.The first R Series bike’s original shocks lasted for 46,477 km, when they were found to be worn out. The second pair of BMW shocks lasted 25,235 km and the third pair only 4,132 km! At this point, Michelin fitted Fournales shocks. They were serviced after they’d done 87,309 km (!) and have now done 113,038 km without any problems.On the second R100, the first BMW shocks lasted 63,330 km (not bad at all) but the second pair only went 12,027 km. Its Fournales have now done ! 120,248 and are still in perfect condition.The third bike’s original shocks lasted 39,793 km, and a replacement BMW pair only went 4,030 km! Michelin tried a third time with BMW equipment, and this timeFournales SuspensionsPO Box 1925,Geelong Vic 3220 Ph/Fax: (03) 5278 1072Offical Australian franchised distributor of French made Oleo-pneumatic suspension systems.got 47,816 km. Fournales were then fitted; they have done 72,827 by now and are still going strong.The last of the R Series bikes went through its original shocks in 32,320 km and a replacement pair in another 31,146 km. Its Fournales, according to Michelin, have clocked up 101,199 km and there’s no suggestion that they are anywhere near wearing out yet. Things are even more clear-cut with the K Series bikes. The first K100 wore out its original shock in 29,707 km; its replacement Fournales has done 75,650 km and is still going strong. The second bike got 30,586 km out of its BMW shock absorber, and has since done 73,094 km on a Fournales shock which is also still going strong.The last of the Ks went for 29,598 km on the original shock and has now clocked up another 45,201 km on its Fournales without needing a replacement.Remember that all of the riders are professional testers, working in Michelin’s tyre testing programme. If the Fournales weren’t still perfect they would have been thrown out, because they would be distorting the results of the tyre tests!