Yeah, i'm sure any shock will be an improvment. I just like to understand what I buy, especially at this price point.

I had figured out that the spring stroke can be the limiting factor... just not realized that adding preload has on effect on it too, just like you said !

So ok spec sheet says 95 mm shock stroke, but the spring can only compress to 90 mm, and has a minimum preload of 5mm.

Good.

But then... why are 20mm shorter shocks listed everywhere as "not suitable for off road". Like the Wilbers for instance.

So far, the 1 way Nitron and 3 ways TFX lead the race. At least they are officially listed as "off road recommended", it buys some peace of mind.

But if OTR is wrong and the ohlins YA 054 is really 83 mm (which it seems to be : http://www.ohlins.com/wp-content/upl...2/MI_YA054.pdf) , then it's also a good option.

Thanks for your answer !