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COPYRIGHT 2005 Ehlert Publishing Group
Racers and hard core trail and sand riders will freely admit that stock suspension just doesn't cut it. Sure, manufacturers are increasingly entering the sport quad market with "race-ready" bikes, and the stock shocks have improved light years since the first three wheeler was released to the riding public. Even with the new technology, a manufacturer simply can't rationalize selling a quad with the best possible suspension setup while keeping it affordable for all consumers. And stock suspension suffers from the cheaper-price-is-better fate.
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What's wrong with stock suspension setups? A broad answer is a quad straight from the factory won't have a shock designed and specialized for your weight, riding style, race situation or even riding condition you most often ride or compete in. The stock shock could be called a generalist; it's developed with every size and type rider in mind.
Aftermarket suspension setups also trump stockers due to longer travel, specialized springs, larger remote reservoirs that resist fading over an increased amount of time and most aftermarket shocks are completely rebuildable. Also, aftermarket shocks use high-speed and high-rate pistons that help absorb punishing blows and keep the ATV more controllable. After filling out several questionnaires about you, your quad and your riding style and situations, the aftermarket suspension will soak up all the jarring hits while making the landscape easier to navigate.
To help you locate that new, smooth setup you've dreamed of, we've assembled a buyers' guide that covers aftermarket companies specializing in suspension setups. Lean...
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