[Davydo]

My z500s ride is ruff to say the least on medium rocky trails. The suspension is stock and I have made no adjustments. I also have the original factory tires with only 630 miles on the machine and I keep the recommended 14 psi in the rears and 10 psi in the fronts. I thought about dropping the pressure a couple pounds, but I'd also like to do some tweaking on the suspension. Not looking to replace the shocks like some have done being this is our first side by side and we are just getting started. We plan to upgrade in a few years...  Thanks for the input.

[doug80638]

Cheap fix is to replace the springs. The factory springs are the problem.

https://www.banditutvsuspension.com/cf-moto

You might get an even better ride with replacement shock kit from the same company but that is much more  $$$.

[NMKawierider]

Yeah I'll vouch for the improvement in ride with the Bandit springs...and as for tire pressure..no one I know or ride with runs over 10 psi on anything. With my stock tires I couldn't stand to run any more then 9psi. Even these 8ply radial Reapers I run 7-8psi even on the rockiest trails. Try 9 at least.

[Davydo]

I lowered the tire pressure to 9 on the rear and 7 on the front. I researched the forum postings on shock adjustment and set my rear shocks 3 clicks from fast and the fronts top and bottom 4 clicks.  Took it for a ride around the yard and on hard top and things seem much softer. I'll have to wait for our next trail ride the verify any real change. I may do the bandit spring replacement if still not to our satisfaction, but definitely not gonna invest in complete shocks on an entry level z500 for that kind of money.  Thanks for the input!