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Last night I massaged a 2012 ZX14R rear shock into my 1990 RC36. I expected an easy, cheap improvement over my 25 y/o stock Showa, however, preliminary testing is proving to be far, far better than even I anticipated. It feels like the rear shock from the big Kawasaki beast was built for the early model viffer, giving it a dominant stance, and as an unforeseen bonus it breathed new life into my bone stock front end. I originally intended to post this up only after a thorough test period (at least 1000 miles, pushing it under various conditions), but I'll save that for an update now because it looks and feels so good that I got anxious to share. So keep in mind that this experimental, and for the moment should only be attempted by those who have a basic understanding of suspension systems and those who are comfortable with simple to intermediate level modifications. I believe this could be a new serious option for those who want a "budget friendly" suspension upgrade that will provide the look, handling, and adjustability of a high-end custom shop setup. These legendary 3rd gens aren't getting any younger, and it's getting harder and harder to find decent (read: affordable) aftermarket support. Soon it will be a necessity to improvise upgrades and fixes for the whole damn bike, but that's what I really like about owning one ;) How about you? .

G'day folks, I've been playing around with front and rear suspension and have put what I think is an Yamaha R6 rear shock. I've used the original linkage plates stamped with FR-MBG. In my bag of bits I have another set of linkage plates stamped FR-MCW. The latter set seems to be 3 or 4mm shorter in the direction of the arrow. Does anyone know if they (FR-MCW) are from later or earlier models or perhaps a lowering kit? My Haynes manuals shows FR MBG on 97-99 and in the 02-09 manual, in fact its the exact same photo. (The R6 shock spring is way too light so I'm off to Shock Treatment tomorrow to see if its worth putting a stiffer spring on) Ive put the wide bars as I even the standard bars are too low for my worn out wrists. And the forks were just because I could. In case you're I'm also thinking of putting all my boxes of bits and the 2006 up for sale. It has a great motor, Shock Treatment upgraded suspension, rear sets, panels, ect ect ect.