They’re not shocks. And they’ll doubtless be far more reliable than the previous eccentric bearing!
This +1
I had an SB5C, and have now moved onto a ’45C (the big-wheeled brother of the SB5C) and have never had nay probs with my switch infinity system.
Yes, mud will collect in around the link, but that’s really not a problem as the seals on the unit just push it out of the way.
I’ve given it a right hammering, and it copes with it admirably.
To the OP, the SB5C would be well worth a look. It’s much more capable than its 127mm travel suggests, and paired with a 150mm fork will pretty much do anything. It’s also 142×12, so you won’t have to change your hub 🙂