Aftermarket suspension experiences

[Darren69]

Apologies in advance if I am duplicating, searched but didn’t find much, any experiences to share? Have read good things about Matrix, not alot about ohlins or wilbers yet. New components vs spring and revalve only etc. 

[johnmark101]

I have two motorcycles, both with aftermarket suspension work from Traxxion Dynamics.  Both with excellent results.

The first was my 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 1000.  I had the stock forks and shocks rebuilt with new springs and valving for my weight and riding style.  It was a big improvement in stability, ride and handling.  Excellent bump absorption and very planted in the corners.

Next was my 2019 Tracer 900 GT.  This time I went for the premium upgrade with AK-20 cartridges in the forks and a Penske triple adjusting rear shock.  The cost was almost double what I spent on the basic rebuild on the Kawasaki.  Again, excellent results.  I can ride all day in comfort and attack the twisties as if I am on a super sport with no problem.

However, at twice the price it was not nearly twice the performance.  My suggestion to those wanting suspension upgrades but do not plan to track the bike, and are on a budget, is to rebuild the stock components as I did on the Kawasaki.  Great results can be had for not a lot of money.

Either way, suspension upgrades make a big difference.

[betoney]

I will echo what @johnmark101wrote

"It was a big improvement in stability, ride and handling.  Excellent bump absorption and very planted in the corners."

"I can ride all day in comfort and attack the twisties as if I am on a super sport with no problem."

"Either way, suspension upgrades make a big difference."

I have never bothered with engine/ performance mods on any previous bike but have upgraded the suspension on every bike I have owned, street or dirt, over the past 30+ years.  Properly set up suspension affects braking, acceleration, steering/cornering, stability and tire wear as well as comfort.

The overall ride quality and enjoyment is so much improved that I don't mind spending the money.  As mentioned previously you dont "need" complete fork cartridge replacements, springs and revalve will work wonders, you can do the same with the shock although I personally like an aftermarket shock for the ride height, compression adjustment and separate nitrogen/oil, personal preference though.

[Clegg78]

I have only experience with the stock and the Ohlins YA537/NIX30 combo on the bike, and I can tell you going to a proper front and rear suspension upgrade is massive... the bike is so stable and consistent.   Worth every penny.

[Darren69]

1 minute ago, Clegg78 said:

I have only experience with the stock and the Ohlins YA537/NIX30 combo on the bike, and I can tell you going to a proper front and rear suspension upgrade is massive... the bike is so stable and consistent.   Worth every penny.

Yes mate much like betoney above I have had aftermarket suspension on the last three bikes, maybe we get old and fat lol. Did find the Ohlins had plenty of scope for adjustment? Built for your weight and use?

[Clegg78]

Yeah I bought through a suspension specialist who did the setup for me (and ordered based on my weight).   Most of my settings are right in the middle of the band after setting everything up so a LOT of adjustment left.   Only thing I had to tweak after the initial install was the preload collar, to move it down just a tad because I got fat and needed a bit more for long rides with the bike loaded up.

[Ride365]

The 900 GT has better front end guts over the FJ, so I will just be going with proper springs this year.......the rear unit is another story, not sure what I want to order up yet for that.

[texscottyd]

The FJ-09 Suspension sub-forum has a bunch of information gathered over the years of member’s suspension upgrade successes.   It’s interesting to note that I’ve never heard of anyone regretting it after the fact… there’s just so much room for improvement from the stock components.   The older the bike, the greater the gain, as Yamaha did improve the suspension somewhat as the models evolved.

Here’s an older post describing my thoughts of the Ohlins shock & RaceTech forks I did on my 2015 FJ:

You profile photo suggests you’re exactly the kind of guy that would benefit from some suspension $$$ 😀

[Darren69]

Will save the $$ and go with Ohlins both ends methinks. They may perform better over the rougher crap for longer. I appreciate the inputs thank you. 

[pgeldz]

On 2/11/2023 at 3:49 PM, Clegg78 said:

I have only experience with the stock and the Ohlins YA537/NIX30 combo on the bike, and I can tell you going to a proper front and rear suspension upgrade is massive... the bike is so stable and consistent.   Worth every penny.

Good to know.  I just went with this exact set up...installing it this week!