Steering Damper Question

[Snapping Twig]

This bike is the first one I've had with a steering damper, but like the stock Showa shocks, I understand it to be less than optimum.

I have heard that an upgrade here is a good idea, but considering that these bikes are not inherently unstable or made to burn up a race course, I'm curious about the benefit.

Anyone upgrade their damper? If so, how does it improve your ride?

[Lost Rider]

I replaced the OEM with a Ohlins adjustable and rebuildable damper, granted the OEM one had about 70,000 miles on it so it was toast, but just like when you get new suspension or even new tires the feeling was obviously a vast improvement. Not as big of a difference as new shocks, but good either way. After playing with it trying out different settings I have mine adjusted much "tighter" than the stock one, meaning at very low speeds like when turning the bike around from a parking spot it feels pretty "heavy", but once I get moving it feels very smooth and really helps hold a line in a corner on rough pavement and overall stability all the time. I've found it helps riding in windy or grooved pavement conditions too.
I believe it was around $300 from http://www.kyleusa.com and wish I would have changed it much much sooner, like when I bought the bike.
I recently had a Lost tour where the rider who rode my bike has a 2013 12R with ESA, I was told the difference in handling was substantially different and better on my 07' bike with Ohlins shocks and Ohlins damper being the main reason for the improvement. Considering the relatively low cost of a damper it seems like a good idea to upgrade, especially if someone has over 30,000 miles on their bike.
Here's my Ohlins damper thread with some bling Gold happytime:

http://r1150r.org/board/viewtopic.php?f ... 03#p213003

[ptm]

Thanks for that info LostRider, and to all those who have posted their shockie advice over the years.
Ordered mine from Kyle's yesterday - usually overseas deliveries to Oz from Stateside are fairly fast so not too long to wait.

Even though mine is 4 years old, it only had 13000 km on the clock before being diagnosed with a dead damper.
Have a set of Wilbers front and back to throw on as well, so looking forward to a new riding experience.

We have a new dealership opening up next week (Motolife) here in Townsville so will gove them a go.
Soon should be putting our perfect winter's days to good use - typically cloudless skies and 26 C.