For anyone who is interested, it turns out Nitron Japan has a line of off the shelf shocks for the MC18. that includes their R1, R2, R3 and RacePro models. They are built to order and there is a special order fee over and above their standard pricing (i am waiting for a quote on that cost). This was the result of inquiries i made to Fast Bike Industries in North Caroline USA. I have been dealing with Burch Waller in sales and he could not have been more helpful. Highly recommended. Here is the contact info:

Burch Wadewitz
Sales Manager

Fast Bike Industries
211 Duncan Hill Road
Hendersonville, NC 28792
(828) 435-0125
Website

Fast Bike Industries
Nitron Suspension USA
Andreani Group USA