Nitron Shocks - Word Of Warning. Closure! :-)

Hi,

This just prompted me to check the new K-Tech Razor Lites I have installed on my 2018 Thruxton S. They are also hard up against the top mounting lug. I haven't ridden the bike yet and don't know if they have also chipped the lugs and shocks without taking them off to check. I've emailed K-Tech and Brooks Suspension. I can't see how it is anything to do with fitting, there is no alternative way to mount them, all I could do is swap left to right, but the offset is the same on the shock body so will hit either way. Same if I turned them through 180 degrees. Wasn't apparent at the time as they fitted on really easy, you have to actively look to see it.

 

That is kind of what struck me. I can see WHAT has happened but WHY is less obvious. It would seem to be slight movement in the bush but fundamentally the eyelet allows insufficient clearance from the frame and its lugs.

 

It's the height of the shoulder of the shock in relation to the eyelet, there isn't enough room to clear the mounting lug. When I fitted them they slid on perfectly, unless you got in with a flashlight to check you would never notice the shocks were hitting the frame lug. I don't know if it will cause any issues, as I say I haven't ridden the bike yet. I guess it it is all tightened up it will be locked in place, but any tiny give in the bushes if you hit a bump would presumably be enough to chip the shock and the mounting lug.

 

I would sooner use something like plasticote or even Halfords who can mix Auto paint for you Hammerite is good but tends to crack.

 

I maybe wasn’t clear enough. It’s bleedin’ obvious WHAT the problem is. I am surprised it wasn’t obvious when tightening up........

Sorry

Damage done, I would be minded to grind adequate clearance before restoring the finish on frame and shock.

 

Yep, I'll let you know what they say.

The contact point on mine looks much less severe than on yours, but as I say I haven't ridden it yet.

All I know on installing mine is that it wasn't at all obvious, shocks slid on with no problems whatsoever. The part where they touch on mine is right to the inside of the shock and not visible unless you make a concerted effort to look, plus on £600 worth of shock you don't think to check something so fundamental. Having said that I admit I took it for granted they would actually fit.

 

Have just checked the KTEC rear shocks on my Speed Twin and the both sides are impacted against the lug.

 

This is the Nitro shock on my old Bonnie Newchurch.

 

I might be wrong but I dont think halfords mix paint anymore.

 

It is such a shame that your upgrade has caused an issue with your bike. I share your disappointment as anything that effects our bikes has a devistating impact on how we feel. Good luck with your supplier to getting a satisfactory fix...

 

Sorry for stating the obvious,but this seems like a design problem.
I’ve just checked the YSS shocks I recently installed and there’s a clearance,I think they were designed specifically for the Bonnie.Nevertheless I’m surprised,as I’m a Nitron fan,I’ve got a mono on the F800gs and it’s been brilliant.
Perhaps Nitron should be your first contact as they made it.