I have a few questions regarding a new quad. I am looking to widen the stance on my sons quad and am considering spacers. He moved up from a Polaris 90 that was really wide and now the new quad seems quite tippy on turns. He rides mostly trails and a little bit of MX (small jumps).

1. Should I increase front and rear by the same amount (1, 1.5 or 2) or 1 in front and 2 in rear?

2. Should I only increase the rear to avoid steering issues with the front end?

3. I've heard of people bending axles and wearing suspension parts quicker with spacers...what do you think?

4. Does anyone have a TRX250 with spacers? How is it working for you?

Thanks for any answers you have!

 

1) Generally it is better to be a bit wider in the front than rear.
2) You can always try it and see how it works out. Front spacers aren't terribly expensive if you have to add later.
3) Yes, spacers add in bump steer on the front, and do cause premature wear and/or failure of bushings, bearings, joints, axles etc.
4) I don't have a 250EX, but I have done this on other machines. One old trick is to flip the rims around, running the smaller offset on the inside. Often you will need to install the original valve stem inside out and then install a new one on the opposite side of the rim to clear the front brakes.

One warning with spacers or flipping rims, jumping is generally frowned upon as it is much easier to break suspension parts with a bad landing. If he is young and only doing small stuff, should be fine but keep an eye on it. Extended axle and a-arms is the proper way to build it for any serious jumping.

 

Noting that your Honda is a 2012, I am assuming that you still have the stock tires on it. If so, these tires have round, balloon like, profile to them. Simply replacing them to a flat profile tire will make a huge difference. I did this to my son's 250ex and it made a big difference.

 

Thanks Scooter86 that's what I was worried about.
Nachop - never even thought of this and he would love a better set of tires...suggestions on tires?????

 

That is an excellent suggestion Nachop. Jeffro, I have had good luck with the newer offerings from GBC. The original MAxxis Razr is usually fairly cheap for one of the big brands and they are tough, long lasting tires. For the record, I think I may try the STI Tech 4 next time though since they are le$$.

 

Scooter86, funny you should mention that tire. Jeffro, I highly recommend the STI Tech 4XC. That is what I put on my son's quad. I don't remember how much I paid for them, but they were reasonably priced at RM ATV. AND, I was very surprised to find out they were 6 ply. Anyway, I absolutely love them. It made a dramatic difference in the way his quad handles. They have very good traction, while still being able to slide them. When we ride, I let my son take the lead on familiar terrain and I immediately noticed that he does not bounce around like he used to with the stock tires. He also takes corners MUCH faster than he used to. I liked them so much, I am going to get a set for my 85 ATC 250R.

 

RM ATV has the rear 22x11x9 for $76 each. The 20x11x9 is cheaper. Buy 2 and the shipping is free.

 

Did you ever get the tires? If you did, I am interested to hear what you think about them.