While I like to keep the original parts on my car there's nothing wrong with taking advantage of a good deal on a replacement part thats designed to wear out. Im glad you did the writeup on them as I have sometimes considered alternate parts but have been afraid to try them because of the hassle of replacing them again.

Many of the "purists" on the board swear by their Michelin tires but I can't stand the way that they make a car ride. I have them on my 140 now and can't wait for them to wear out so I can stick Continental's BACK on the car.

Perhaps the same might be true with shocks.