Well, I opted to take off the highlifter lift off the front since I didn’t have the right parts yet to finish the job. When I got to changing the rear shocks out, I was curious what the real difference would be from front to rear if I left the rear lift on while the front lift was off. Side note: all 4 shocks are set at the shipped preload with the only adjustment was clicking the adjustment all the way to soft and then hard 2 clicks. Apparently, the only difference was about 1.25 inches higher in the rear and 1/2 inch difference in width. Barely noticeable considering that for my last ride before the shock change, I had increased rear tire pressure to 10psi vs the normal 6-8psi I normally run in them. I let out some air from the rear tires to 7 psi and now difference is only slightly over an inch in clearance front and back.
Still curious with this setup, I loaded it into my truck and headed to the trail just off my parent’s property. There’s a decent variety of terrain in the 20 mile loop I took; sandy washouts, steep-ish (now soggy from rains) climbs, a few lava flow rocky areas, tight corners, off canter ruts and long straits with some whoopty speed bumpy things here and there.
First impression of the shocks was fan-freakin-tastic. Seemed to already feel like a great balance of comfort and control already without other adjustment. Lack of front sway actually inspired a bit more confidence. Of canter ruts especially at low speed didn’t give any tippy indications that I could feel. I even tried to simulate the angle of approach that put me on my side over a year ago. Wheels stayed planted.
Now to the different geometry from having just the rear lift on. I never liked that the rear of the RZR didn’t have quite the clearance of the front. Just didn’t make since except to lower center of gravity. Having the tail up a bit reminded me of driving a little truck without the ass-end bouncing everywhere. Almost felt as if some of the body weight was pushed forward instead of feeling like the back end was an anchor. Suffice it to say, I didn’t feel anything adverse from it. I am going to try it out again with front lift once the parts are in next weekend.
I know Polaris says that if you adjust preload to your shocks that you should have all 4 shocks set at sane preload. Anyone out there have any information or first hand knowledge on anything adverse with running with about an inch more clearance in the back from a lift that is only installed on the back suspension?
