[2themax]

Hello,

I'm sure this has been discussed, but after a weekend ride with bigger/heavier machines,
i'll pose this question....

Which is better..... Larger tires, 28-30 or the 2 inch lift with spacers ?

Thanks

[NMKawierider]

"Better"...better for what? Both have costs or disadvantages. Bigger tires are heavier..power robbing..even with clutch work which will be necessary. And on a trail, 28s is as large as you can go without a lift.  Lifts are hard on CV joints and axles..and some front end parts like tie rod ends and ball joints as well kill what's left of an already terrible ride quality. Wheel spacers are hard on wheel bearings, knuckle bushings and a-arm bushings although 1.5 and less seem not to be too bad. It's going to be a trade-off of sorts. You will loose on one side.. to gain on the other. If it's just ground clearance you are looking for, you will have to decide how much dependability and power you are willing to give up to gain that couple of inches. If it were me..and I say this because after all the reviews and reading I did to come to the decisions I made, go with not more then a good 28" tire. Add a set of 1.5" spacers and set the shocks preload to give a 60% compression and 40% rebound when loaded with an attack angle of 1/2" lower in front. Then invest in decent skid plates. and tune the clutches per your needs. This may not keep you off the rocks all the time but it will keep you on the trail and out of the shop..most of the time.

[2themax]

Thanks for the info, as this machine is new to me, I have alot of tweaks to make, like the shock settings, etc.

I believe the issue I am having is shock stiffness, coupled with the lower profile tires, compared to one of my riding partners this weekend.

He is running 30" tires ( on a can-am ) with 7 lbs pressure - the extra 4" of sidewall and low pressure makes for a less stiff ride on " rocky " roads. He also has the shocks as soft as possible.

I don't need any extreme speed out of the machine, just want more comfort at speed... if that makes any sense.

I will make the adjustments for now and go from there.

Thanks

[NMKawierider]

Might also consider a new set of Elka or Bandit shocks. Night and day difference on ride quality and control.