Shock options

RacerX113 · October 10th, 2013, 10:54 AM

So I think I will be upgrading my shock this off season, and would like to get some opinions from those of you who have upgraded your shocks.

To be honest I don't find the stock shock to be that bad. According to Race Tech web site the spring fits my weight (195lbs). It just seems to fade a little as the race goes on. More important I would like something that gives me ride height adjustment without messing with the dog bones. I would like to lift it about 5mm.

The shocks I know about are the Ohlins, Penske, JRI, and Elka.

IMO the Ohlins is the nicest of the bunch, but at $1000+ it may be a bit overkill for the 250.

I have a friend who has rebuilt some of the Elkas and has had some trouble with getting them to work right after rebuilds.

I happened to talk to someone who was running the JRI and he had some issues with it leaking.

So with all that said, I'm not sure which way to go.

Thanks in advance for any input.
Doug

DCMoney · October 10th, 2013, 11:27 AM

http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...&products_id=8

http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...products_id=29

http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...&products_id=9

Or a 06 GSXR 600 shock install, which is what I did. I have about 30 bucks and an hour and 15 minutes of my time to install, but I got the shock free and had two friends helping with install...

RacerX113 · October 10th, 2013, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DCMoney

http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...&products_id=8

http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...products_id=29

http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...&products_id=9

Or a 06 GSXR 600 shock install, which is what I did. I have about 30 bucks and an hour and 15 minutes of my time to install, but I got the shock free and had two friends helping with install...

Good price on those. Any idea if they're ride height adjustable, and rebuildable? Do they match the spring to your weight?

Zombiphone · October 10th, 2013, 04:27 PM

You can get an Ohlins for $7-800 brand new and built for your weight from a number of online retailers. You may have to call them to get the discount, but I certainly didn't pay $1000+ for mine. It does offer ride height adjustment and, best of all, is legal for the series that don't allow you to modify stock dogbones (Don't know about the series you race in, but AFM in california at least doesn't allow it).

Still pricey, but I feel like it's the best money I've spent on my bike thus far, personally. I can't speak for other brands though, as this is all I've tried

RacerX113 · October 15th, 2013, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zombiphone

You can get an Ohlins for $7-800 brand new and built for your weight from a number of online retailers. You may have to call them to get the discount, but I certainly didn't pay $1000+ for mine. It does offer ride height adjustment and, best of all, is legal for the series that don't allow you to modify stock dogbones (Don't know about the series you race in, but AFM in california at least doesn't allow it).

Still pricey, but I feel like it's the best money I've spent on my bike thus far, personally. I can't speak for other brands though, as this is all I've tried

Yeah I found one for $760, but I would need to buy a kit to change the spring for my wright tacking on another $200. I think I would pull the trigger on that one at $760, but not so sure at $960. So still weighing my options.

At this time I'm leaning toward the JRI or the Elka, but still open to other options.

RacerX113 · October 18th, 2013, 03:05 PM

The Nitron shock looks very promising, and the one I will most likely go with. There may be a group buy opportunity if anyone is interested. I may post this up in the market place for a group buy.

http://www.pak-meister.com/NITRON-SHOCKS_c_165.html

mgentz · October 23rd, 2013, 06:57 PM

Nitron does not make a triple for the 250

bitaria · October 31st, 2013, 07:20 AM

I have gone for the GSXR option, at least for now. Yes the dog-bones are not stock to get the height right... haven't figures out a better way of making it the right height. Unfortunately the stock mounting options where you can add spacers does not fit the 250.

JRi and Elka sound interesting, there is also a Penske option as well. I'm keeping an eye out for a better setup, but budget is a major constraint at this time, though I tend to through money at things if I feel they hinder lap times

mgentz · October 31st, 2013, 08:08 AM

Suspension and brakes are always my number one upgrades.

DCMoney · October 31st, 2013, 08:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bitaria

I have gone for the GSXR option, at least for now. Yes the dog-bones are not stock to get the height right... haven't figures out a better way of making it the right height. Unfortunately the stock mounting options where you can add spacers does not fit the 250.

JRi and Elka sound interesting, there is also a Penske option as well. I'm keeping an eye out for a better setup, but budget is a major constraint at this time, though I tend to through money at things if I feel they hinder lap times

If you do the GSXR shock and buys these bolts you can reuse the stock nuts.

http://www.mcmaster.com/#91180a723/=p6cnw4

Will also need a half inch spacer on either side of the dog bone.

I was thinking of having some new dog bones made to bring the rear back up to stock height, will let you know if I make multiple sets.

bitaria · October 31st, 2013, 10:57 AM

I got a "kit" with all new hardware and linkage. You also have to enlarge the bottom end of the shock to 12mm.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DCMoney

If you do the GSXR shock and buys these bolts you can reuse the stock nuts.

http://www.mcmaster.com/#91180a723/=p6cnw4

Will also need a half inch spacer on either side of the dog bone.

I was thinking of having some new dog bones made to bring the rear back up to stock height, will let you know if I make multiple sets.

tooblekain · October 31st, 2013, 12:57 PM

I have a Racetech G3-S Custom shock for my Ninja 250. Very happy with it

bitaria · October 31st, 2013, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tooblekain

I have a Racetech G3-S Custom shock for my Ninja 250. Very happy with it

What does that run $, ballpark?

jconolty · November 1st, 2013, 05:12 AM

I ran a Penske double with a variable bleed piston (same as most AMA teams) and loved it. My rear tire looked like a motogp tire after a race with it set up correctly. and with the adjustable shock length I was able to change the geometry and swing arm angle which honestly helped the bike more than anything. www.tracksidesuspension.com is who I had build mine. Also im confident the stock spring is WAY to soft for anyone over 130 lbs

tooblekain · November 1st, 2013, 11:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bitaria

What does that run $, ballpark?

****, I wish I could recall off the top of my head. If you give them a call they can give you a quote.

mgentz · November 1st, 2013, 11:40 AM

It was probably around $1000

mgentz · November 1st, 2013, 11:43 AM

Just checked. $1100

bitaria · November 1st, 2013, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mgentz

Just checked. $1100

Yup, that's going to put it out of my price range.

2WheelGuy · November 9th, 2013, 07:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jconolty

I ran a Penske double with a variable bleed piston (same as most AMA teams) and loved it. My rear tire looked like a motogp tire after a race with it set up correctly. and with the adjustable shock length I was able to change the geometry and swing arm angle which honestly helped the bike more than anything. www.tracksidesuspension.com is who I had build mine. Also im confident the stock spring is WAY to soft for anyone over 130 lbs

+1 on the Penske. Expensive but it works.

bitaria · November 18th, 2013, 05:51 PM

I'm doing the GSXR shock conversion, widened and drilled out the lower mount to fit, but not sure if I should also drill out the upper mounting hole, stock bolt is a bit larger than GSXR.

KazMan · November 19th, 2013, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jconolty

I ran a Penske double with a variable bleed piston (same as most AMA teams) and loved it. My rear tire looked like a motogp tire after a race with it set up correctly. and with the adjustable shock length I was able to change the geometry and swing arm angle which honestly helped the bike more than anything. www.tracksidesuspension.com is who I had build mine. Also im confident the stock spring is WAY to soft for anyone over 130 lbs

This and +1000 for the height adjustment being most important for improvements for me.

sharky nrk · November 22nd, 2013, 08:57 AM

I would have to imagine something like a Penske or similar where you can modify the shock with new mounts to change it up for a different bike would be the only way I could even begin to justify a $1k shock for a $4k (brand new) bike.

But then again I am really slow lol

bitaria · November 22nd, 2013, 09:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sharky nrk

I would have to imagine something like a Penske or similar where you can modify the shock with new mounts to change it up for a different bike would be the only way I could even begin to justify a $1k shock for a $4k (brand new) bike.

But then again I am really slow lol

High end shocks hold value well, so you can sell it with the bike or separately in case you want to try a different platform.

mgentz · November 22nd, 2013, 11:40 AM

Ironically, the shock for the 250 does not transfer well.

smokinsingle · November 23rd, 2013, 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zombiphone

You can get an Ohlins for $7-800 brand new and built for your weight from a number of online retailers. You may have to call them to get the discount, but I certainly didn't pay $1000+ for mine. It does offer ride height adjustment and, best of all, is legal for the series that don't allow you to modify stock dogbones (Don't know about the series you race in, but AFM in california at least doesn't allow it).

Still pricey, but I feel like it's the best money I've spent on my bike thus far, personally. I can't speak for other brands though, as this is all I've tried

+1 Love my Ohlins. True set it and forget it. Rear ride height adjusment is the secret to a happy modded front end imo.

tooblekain · December 5th, 2013, 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smokinsingle

+1 Love my Ohlins. True set it and forget it. Rear ride height adjusment is the secret to a happy modded front end imo.

What do you have the ride height set at on your rear shock?

smokinsingle · December 11th, 2013, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tooblekain

What do you have the ride height set at on your rear shock?

I'll have to check, it's not in my notes. I'll try to get an eye to eye measurement for you. It's damn cold here to not have a heated garage...

RacerX113 · December 11th, 2013, 03:09 PM

Well I finially pulled the trigger and went with the JRI 2 way. I will update with pics and review next time I get to the track.

October 10th, 2013, 10:54 AM	#1
RacerX113 ninjette.org member Name: Doug Location: Atlanta Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Triumph Thruxton, Ninja 250 Posts: 148	Shock options So I think I will be upgrading my shock this off season, and would like to get some opinions from those of you who have upgraded your shocks. To be honest I don't find the stock shock to be that bad. According to Race Tech web site the spring fits my weight (195lbs). It just seems to fade a little as the race goes on. More important I would like something that gives me ride height adjustment without messing with the dog bones. I would like to lift it about 5mm. The shocks I know about are the Ohlins, Penske, JRI, and Elka. IMO the Ohlins is the nicest of the bunch, but at $1000+ it may be a bit overkill for the 250. I have a friend who has rebuilt some of the Elkas and has had some trouble with getting them to work right after rebuilds. I happened to talk to someone who was running the JRI and he had some issues with it leaking. So with all that said, I'm not sure which way to go. Thanks in advance for any input. Doug

October 10th, 2013, 11:27 AM	#2
DCMoney ninjette.org guru Name: Andrew Location: St Louis Join Date: Sep 2013 Motorcycle(s): Ducati 1198s, Triumph D675, Suzuki SV1000s, `08 Ninja 250, `11 Ninja 250, Suzuki GS750 Posts: 368	http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...&products_id=8 http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...products_id=29 http://sportisimotorsport.us/index.p...&products_id=9 Or a 06 GSXR 600 shock install, which is what I did. I have about 30 bucks and an hour and 15 minutes of my time to install, but I got the shock free and had two friends helping with install... __________________________________________________ MCRA.com

October 10th, 2013, 04:27 PM	#4
Zombiphone CVMA/AFM #72 Name: Tiffani Location: Los Angeles, Ca Join Date: Oct 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2009 Ninja 250r (Racebike), 2015 FZ-07(Tourer), 2001 KX65(LOL bike) Posts: A lot.	You can get an Ohlins for $7-800 brand new and built for your weight from a number of online retailers. You may have to call them to get the discount, but I certainly didn't pay $1000+ for mine. It does offer ride height adjustment and, best of all, is legal for the series that don't allow you to modify stock dogbones (Don't know about the series you race in, but AFM in california at least doesn't allow it). Still pricey, but I feel like it's the best money I've spent on my bike thus far, personally. I can't speak for other brands though, as this is all I've tried
	1 out of 1 members found this post helpful.

October 31st, 2013, 12:57 PM	#12
tooblekain ninjette.org sage Name: Matt Location: San Diego, CA Join Date: May 2012 Motorcycle(s): 2007 Triumph Bonneville; 2008 Ninja 250r (trackbike) Posts: 748	I have a Racetech G3-S Custom shock for my Ninja 250. Very happy with it __________________________________________________ CVMA #312SoCal TrackdaysBigHeadz RacingMotion ProFactory EffexLeatt Brace* Racetech Bell Woodcraft CFMVortexHotbodiesSurface Sun SystemsBrakingLiveWire EnergyFreegun Underwear

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October 18th, 2013, 03:05 PM	#6
RacerX113 ninjette.org member Name: Doug Location: Atlanta Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Triumph Thruxton, Ninja 250 Posts: 148	The Nitron shock looks very promising, and the one I will most likely go with. There may be a group buy opportunity if anyone is interested. I may post this up in the market place for a group buy. http://www.pak-meister.com/NITRON-SHOCKS_c_165.html

October 23rd, 2013, 06:57 PM	#7
mgentz Board Member Name: ... Location: WI Join Date: Dec 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250R (street), 250R (dirt) Posts: A lot.	Nitron does not make a triple for the 250

October 31st, 2013, 07:20 AM	#8
bitaria ninjette.org member Name: Oleg Location: Seattle WA Join Date: Aug 2013 Motorcycle(s): CRF450X, CRF250R/SM, Husky 630 SMS, Ninja 250R Posts: 144	I have gone for the GSXR option, at least for now. Yes the dog-bones are not stock to get the height right... haven't figures out a better way of making it the right height. Unfortunately the stock mounting options where you can add spacers does not fit the 250. JRi and Elka sound interesting, there is also a Penske option as well. I'm keeping an eye out for a better setup, but budget is a major constraint at this time, though I tend to through money at things if I feel they hinder lap times

October 31st, 2013, 08:08 AM	#9
mgentz Board Member Name: ... Location: WI Join Date: Dec 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250R (street), 250R (dirt) Posts: A lot.	Suspension and brakes are always my number one upgrades.

November 1st, 2013, 05:12 AM	#14
jconolty ninjette.org member Name: Justin Location: southern IN. Join Date: Mar 2013 Motorcycle(s): Speed Four, 600rr, 250r Posts: 62	I ran a Penske double with a variable bleed piston (same as most AMA teams) and loved it. My rear tire looked like a motogp tire after a race with it set up correctly. and with the adjustable shock length I was able to change the geometry and swing arm angle which honestly helped the bike more than anything. www.tracksidesuspension.com is who I had build mine. Also im confident the stock spring is WAY to soft for anyone over 130 lbs

November 1st, 2013, 11:40 AM	#16
mgentz Board Member Name: ... Location: WI Join Date: Dec 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250R (street), 250R (dirt) Posts: A lot.	It was probably around $1000

November 1st, 2013, 11:43 AM	#17
mgentz Board Member Name: ... Location: WI Join Date: Dec 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250R (street), 250R (dirt) Posts: A lot.	Just checked. $1100

November 18th, 2013, 05:51 PM	#20
bitaria ninjette.org member Name: Oleg Location: Seattle WA Join Date: Aug 2013 Motorcycle(s): CRF450X, CRF250R/SM, Husky 630 SMS, Ninja 250R Posts: 144	I'm doing the GSXR shock conversion, widened and drilled out the lower mount to fit, but not sure if I should also drill out the upper mounting hole, stock bolt is a bit larger than GSXR.

November 22nd, 2013, 08:57 AM	#22
sharky nrk Fighting Texas Aggie '05 Name: Neil Location: Hutto, TX Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '07 ZX6R, '08 Versys, '09 250R Track, '93 F2/F3 Track Posts: A lot.	I would have to imagine something like a Penske or similar where you can modify the shock with new mounts to change it up for a different bike would be the only way I could even begin to justify a $1k shock for a $4k (brand new) bike. But then again I am really slow lol

November 22nd, 2013, 11:40 AM	#24
mgentz Board Member Name: ... Location: WI Join Date: Dec 2011 Motorcycle(s): 250R (street), 250R (dirt) Posts: A lot.	Ironically, the shock for the 250 does not transfer well.

December 11th, 2013, 03:09 PM	#28
RacerX113 ninjette.org member Name: Doug Location: Atlanta Join Date: Jul 2011 Motorcycle(s): Triumph Thruxton, Ninja 250 Posts: 148	Well I finially pulled the trigger and went with the JRI 2 way. I will update with pics and review next time I get to the track.