Power wise the tri z is much snappier and quicker than the first gen R. Yes, you can run any warrior shock for the rear. I have one on mine, off a 91' warrior, and I think it does good. The only thing is you have to figure out a different way to mount/fasten the resovoir at the end of the shock hose,as the hose is a little shorter than the tri z, but it can still be mounted in the intended area. I think the tri z resovoir is better quality than the warrior, because it has compression adjustments on the resovoir, where the warrior has none. They also both have the same adjustment for compression/rebound at the bottom of the shock (large philips screwdriver looking screw) The stock expansion chamber does okay on the tri z, and makes decent low/mid power. If you want a better pipe, the only new mass produced pipe is DG. I run one on mine with answer silencer It saves a LOT of weight, sounds good, and adds a little more punch all around. I would especially get rid of the stock silencer. It looks like a tank and weighs like 20 pounds! Good luck with your project, and keep us updated!
THE 80's RAGE! Currently owns:
81, 85 Yamaha Tri Moto 125
83 Yamaha Tri Moto 200 x2
82,83 Yamaha Tri Moto 175 project
85 Yamaha Tri Z 250
84 Kawasaki Tecate 250
84 Honda ATC 70
85 Honda ATC 350X
84 Honda ATC 250R
(2) 84 Honda ATC 200x
82, 83 Honda ATC 185s
81 ATC 200
Lots of other parts and bikes