Connecting rods for gen 2

I would avoid the "MaxSpeed" rods unless you plan on changing the bolts and having them re-sized after you do. When you price that, they usually end up being more expensive than Crower/Carrillo.

As far as those two brands go, I have had both in my hand at some point for a Gen 2, and my next set will be Crower's. Surprisingly, they are usually a bit less expensive, but they are a much more robust rod. They weigh a few % more each over the Carrillo's, but you also get bushed little end compared to the hard chromed end on the Carrillo... On the two sets I had I also found the clearances to be a little better on the Crower's, especially on the little end.

Regardless of which brand you choose, get the best rod bolts you can afford.... In my experience rod bolts are over 99% of non-oiling or sizing related failures.

The Crower I-beam rod is actually a superior design for strength compared to the 'H' beam. There is a lot of misconception about the whole 'H-beam' rod design. Don't get me wrong, the Carrillo/CP rod is a good piece of hardware and will likely never give you a spot of trouble if they are sized/oiled correctly, but I have had it side-by-side with a Crower and I personally will buy Crower next time around. But they both will work for your application, most likely.

There are no other brands of rod I can recommend for a zx10r, because I have not used any other. I would advise that you try to save money elsewhere if that is your primary motivation for variety. It doesn't take much to get rod sizing wrong, and it it doesn't take much wrong to destroy a motor. Regardless of what you pick, make absolutely sure an automotive machinist verifies the tolerances in the bottom end.