As an enthusiast of fine-tuning his Kawasaki Z900RS Café, having already upgraded to higher-profile tyres, I decided it was high time to experiment with the bike’s suspension settings. Considering this project’s dynamics, my initial apprehension centered on replacing the stock rear shock as I perceived it as a critical vulnerability in the overall configuration. While navigating the Zed on the open road, I’ve occasionally experienced abrupt bumps along the suspension’s axis, a jarring sensation that I’m not particularly fond of. I set out to locate a fresh mono-shock unit.
While Ducati enthusiasts may claim that Ohlins offers the ultimate bike suspension setup, industry insiders recognize a diverse range of high-quality brands catering to distinct preferences and needs. The one model that has consistently intrigued me is the renowned UK manufacturer’s Nitron Suspension product line.
During an expedited online inquiry, I discovered that Nitron acquired suspension components to harmonize with the Zed model. I took the initiative to download the latest suspension catalogue from the company, eager to learn more about their innovative technology and expand my knowledge. While browsing through a catalogue, I stumbled upon a picture of the Kawasaki Z1-R in collaboration with Japanese tuner Bull Dock, and my mind was suddenly made up.
Who’s Nitron Suspension?
Since 1998, Nitron Suspension has been designing, manufacturing, and supplying high-performance suspension systems from its headquarters in Oxfordshire, UK. Under the visionary leadership of founder and CEO Man Evans, the company crafts high-performance suspension components tailored to meet the demands of both road and racing applications. As we converse, Nitron offers a comprehensive bicycle suspension catalog that encompasses over 4,000 options to cater to diverse automotive applications. Comprising experienced engineers with many boasting private racing backgrounds, the Nitron team applies its collective knowledge directly to the products it designs.
Nitron develops its products utilising the latest 3D computer-aided design (CAD) modeling techniques, cutting-edge dynamometers, and advanced five-axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Their products are crafted from high-grade billet aluminum, fueled by Nitron gasoline, and meticulously built entirely by hand. All of Nitron’s merchandise boast a unique feature: they’re fully servicable, allowing customers to enjoy a lifetime of seamless usage with their products.
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With meticulous attention to crafting exceptional performance suspension, Nitron’s focus extends to the design and aesthetic appeal of its products. Nitron suspension stands out due to its use of a distinctive blue color for its springs, a hallmark of the brand’s products. While they do offer black variations for customers seeking a more understated look.
Selecting the best bike suspension
Major prime suspension suppliers offer a diverse range of options catering to distinct applications. Niton suspension remains largely unchanged. For the Kawasaki Z900RS Café, I was offered a choice of three distinct shock absorbers.
The range comprised the NTR R1, the corporation’s most advanced road driving solution, the NTR R2, a premium shock tailored for track enthusiasts and spirited street drivers seeking precise handling, and the flagship NTR R3 designed specifically for riders demanding the ultimate level of adjustability and performance. I chose the center option in the very middle of round 2.
The Nitron NTR-R2 is a cutting-edge monoshock spring featuring a revolutionary distant reservoir design, allowing for swift and effortless adjustments without the need for tools. The R2 designation within a shock absorber refers to its ability to accommodate various modifications or upgrades that can be made to the unit, offering flexibility and customization options. This fork design permits real-time spring preload adjustment via an accompanying software, as well as independent control over compression and rebound damping through the remote reservoir’s intuitive interface.
When purchasing a model-specific shock absorber, it may also come with a bracket designed to secure the reservoir in a predetermined position. In the Kawasaki Z900RS’s standard equipment package, a removable bracket allows for the tank-mounted reservoir to be relocated from its default position on the pillion footrest mounting bracket, offering increased customization options and flexibility in setup configurations.
What are the Key Components of a Successful Nitron Suspension Ordering Experience?
I received my Z900RS Nitron shock from Suspension R Us, the authorized Australian distributor. As the leading importer of suspension systems in Australia, Suspension R US offers an extensive range of products from top manufacturers, including its partnership with renowned brand Nitron. Following our conversation, I shared my requirements with Managing Director Izzy Dafni directly. The salesperson concurred that the NTR R2 perfectly aligned with my personal driving preferences. A seasoned racing expert with over two decades of experience supporting top-tier competitors from both local and national circuits, Izzy’s extensive knowledge of suspension systems is unparalleled.
Upon choosing the Nitron NTR R2, I provided key insights into my personal profile and driving habits. This incorporated my weight fully equipped for driving, my driving habits (on-road versus simulator) and my typical approach to carrying a passenger. Using the provided information, Izzy pre-tuned my shock before its shipment to optimize performance. Removing any need to experiment and find the ideal settings yourself ensures a seamless experience.
Upon receiving the Nitron NTR R2 shock, I was thoroughly impressed by its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. All individual components are meticulously finished to precise specifications. Compared to the high-quality Kawasaki shock nearby, the original equipment manufacturer’s product appeared remarkably budget-priced.
The NTR R2’s reduced weight is a notable advantage, tipping the scales at 500 grams less than its inventory counterpart despite the added remote reservoir – a weight savings always appreciated.
As you delve into the process of upgrading your ride’s suspension with the Nitron NTR R2 rear shock, you’ll quickly realize that this premium component is designed to deliver unparalleled performance and control. By providing a heightened level of dampening and adjustability, the Nitron NTR R2 rear shock allows you to tailor the feel of your bike to suit your unique riding style. With its impressive range of compression settings, from 10 to 30 clicks on the high-speed side, and 5 to 15 clicks on the low-speed side, this cutting-edge technology enables you to fine-tune the suspension’s response to even the most demanding terrain.
By exercising a modicum of common sense, utilising suitable tools, and taking into account relevant components, you can confidently undertake many routine maintenance tasks or minor repairs on your bike independently. If you’re not comfortable making adjustments to your bike yourself, consider taking it to a reputable workshop for professional assistance. I’m thrilled to take on new challenges independently. Without a moment’s delay, I promptly began setting up the NTR R2.
The most daunting aspect of this specific alteration lies in the necessity to remove the rear wheel from its lowermost position, thereby allowing for the unrestricted movement of the swingarm. This implies no paddock stands. When equipped with a center stand, this shouldn’t pose an issue. Don’t you think an elevated stand could greatly aid in supporting the weight of your bicycle? To achieve my objective, I crafted a custom stand that rested comfortably beneath the engine’s sump. I ensured the entrance wheel was securely locked to prevent the bike from moving while I worked on it.
With the wheel raised, you can easily release the two bolts securing the mono-shock unit, allowing for its removal or adjustment. Attending to the bolt at the top of the shock requires a slight amount of effort, necessitating the use of an extension for your socket wrench to ensure proper clearance. To dismount the uppermost bolt, you’ll also need to lift the rear wheel to relieve tension on the bolt and facilitate its removal. By applying this washer, one can effectively reduce the stress on the bolt’s shaft, thereby minimizing the risk of the bolt being pulled out. Once the assembly is complete, the rear wheel will lower, allowing you to remove the decreasing bolt. Since I eliminated the fitting passenger peg bracket, that’s where the remote reservoir bracket was supposed to be mounted.
Replacing the Nitron NTR R2 involved simply swapping it with the existing inventory shock, requiring minimal effort and adjustment. One crucial consideration when setting up this system is determining the optimal route for the hose that connects the remote reservoir. Nitron leverages its uniquely engineered Bi-Axis connection system within the hose. This allows for 360 degrees of motion where the hose attaches to the body of the shock. This innovative design simplifies working with the cable to an unprecedented extent.
Once your Nitron NTR R2 is properly seated, torque each bolt to its manufacturer-recommended specifications. You secure the remote tank to its accompanying clamp and attach the clamp between the passenger floorboard mount and the motorcycle’s frame. Carefully lower the bike’s saddle and apply gentle pressure on the seat to verify proper functioning, while also checking for any potential obstructions or pinch points affecting the cable’s movement.
Lastly, verify that all components are properly secured and you’re ready to proceed. It’s also advisable to recheck the bolts following your initial attempt to ensure everything remains securely in place, just as it should be.
Is the Nitron NTR R2 suspension system a game-changer for your bike’s handling and performance?
The distinction between the inventory Z900RS rear shock and the NTR R2 is stark, akin to comparing fundamentally different entities; unfortunately, I must make a comparison. If my former addiction was monitoring daily data, subtle differences may have been more noticeable; yet, as an avid road cyclist, I’m more attuned to minute changes on the road. While some progress may seem evident, the overhaul doesn’t transform the fundamental essence of the concept. The inventory mono-shock on the Kawasaki Z900RS is hardly a concern. While the subtle refinements indeed justified the endeavor’s costs and efforts.
The ride has become remarkably smoother, with few, if any, unsettling bumps from the back end. As I traverse a particularly rough stretch of road, it’s the transition from the uneven surface to the smooth entrance that amplifies the jarring sensations I experience, making it a uniquely bump-filled moment. The rear of the vehicle also handles exceptionally well in corners, instilling a sense of confidence and making me feel like an even more accomplished driver. I’ve adjusted the shock without performing with it, to be honest. The current settings at Suspension R Us seem perfectly tailored to my needs. I don’t anticipate making any adjustments unless I’m transporting a passenger or considerable camping equipment on an extended trip, at which point I’ll reassess my setup; until then, I’m thoroughly content with how things stand.
The NTR R2’s enhancements have seamlessly integrated into my Zed, resulting in a truly impressive experience. The Nitron blue perfectly complements the gray scheme of my bike, ensuring I’ll receive numerous admiring glances. As time passes, I may decide to invest in the extra {dollars} needed for a Nitron entrance end upgrade; yet, for the moment, my spine luxuriates in the velvety smoothness provided by my newly installed rear shock.
