Hoop-style DSS Swingarm - New Rear Shock Q's and Rec's

[junior varsity]

Going to be replacing the tired Boge-Sachs from my Monster this July. The poor shock did its job as well as it could for a long time. 

I will be upgrading the rear shock, and obviously the spring to fit my body weight. My bike will not be doing trackdays, just lots of spirited riding and spirited 'commuting'

I have seen many people happy with a Ohlins Rear, and it appears to run mid-700's to 800 wampum from Motowheels.

Since I have the opportunity to 'do-it-once, do-it-right', are there any other rec's regarding the rear shock?  I do not want to spend a fortune, afterall, this is a '99, and money saved is money towards another bike. Or drapes if the wife has anything to say about it.

So here we are, looking for brands, models, and advice regarding the rear shock on a hoop-style DSS Monster, aluminum swingarm, 'husky' rider.

[Norm]

If you don't plan on keeping the bike long, don't spend the money on a premium shock. Shop Ebay & see if you can come up with something close to what you want. On the other hand, Ohlins..............................................................

[junior varsity]

Oh, this bike is staying in the stable for the long haul, and will only gain 'stable-mates'.

How's Penske vs. Ohlins?

[COP TZR]

is there any rear shocks from other models that might be interchangeable?  I was told that a rear shock from the 851/888 will fit on the "hooped" Monsters.

[koko64]

I got the basic Penske for my M900. $575 from CCW. Penske build to order.

[junior varsity]

not really.  You can contact a Penske vendor for one built for the hooped M900 (or you can go Ohlins).  I believe there may also be a less expensive option from Bitubo - but with less features.

Edit:  the bitubo is not less expensive than the Penske that koko64's referring to.  There's 4 or so versions of Penske shocks, with varying features and price points.

[brad black]

I got the basic Penske for my M900. $575 from CCW. Penske build to order.

penske!  how's it compare to the played with sachs?

[koko64]

It was better actually. Surprising.
I had to give CCW details like how and where I ride, and rider and bike weight of course. Info I gave was like "spirited riding on pot holed, rough country back roads", kind of thing. That's what I meant by made to order, CCW didnt grab it off the shelf.

It's a basic shock, ride height, preload and rebound adjustable only. However, it's a basic shock, but built to the very highest standards, it's so "billet" and well made, nearly a kilo lighter and superbly finished. The adjustments make a noticable difference and it was easy to set up. Very good as delivered.

I didnt want to spend a grand on a street bike shock. I dont ride it hard enough being in Victoria.

[Pedro-bot]

I was in the same boat, searching for a proper rear shock without having to drop major coin.
Finally found a used ohlins for 500. If you're not in a rush I'd keep searching for a used one that's in good condition.