Curvy first impressions.

Completely agree, don't get me wrong. But the stock shock is utter garbage, especially for a heavier rider. 14st and the rear felt completely underdamped within 6k. Once the stock shock gets worse, its gone. It can't be re-spung, it can't be serviced. If you didn't feel an almighty change with the Nitron then you fall into that lucky bracket of "sprung adequately for you out of the box". Also remember its the oil viscosity (front). I changed to 20wt and it was terrible initially but as I tend to ride hard and for fun, by the time it warmed up it worked much better and certainly better than stock. I've had it from new so wouldn't say components are knackered, just not suited for anything other than commuting.