We have a 2002 450EX foreman and it rides rough. Is there any place where you can order softer springs? Has any one changed their springs? Does it help?? Thanks, DG

 

Greetings,

When the 450 first came out, everyone complained about how hard the suspension was. Then we all found that within a few months, it softened up and was just fine. There may be some differences between a 98 model and a 02 model, I can't say, but I'd give it a little time and see if it just corrects itself.

 

This may be the "nature of the beast". The 450 is a great machine, but it is not known for having a soft ride when lightly loaded. You may find the suspension improve with a load on the racks.

 

Those Honda have a suspension made for working... but your 2002 is softer than the 1998 - 2001. I make a long travel suspension kit for Honda TRX 400, 450 and 500 since this fall. It simply relocate the shock's mounting points on the A-arm and swingarm. It improve the suspension greatly. It is adjustable in different position and does not require any welding. You have about 1-3/8 inches of added travel, resulting in a softer suspension. The kit is $139.99 (canadian dollars!) and can be purchased by calling the distributor, Motovan, at 1-800-363-0808

 

In the Jan. issue of ATV Action mag. there is an add for a suspension kit for the 450. The company is A D Boivin and sells for $150, tel. number 418-838-3783. Quote from the add-"designed to improve overall stability, handling and riding comfort on rough terrain, as well as make steering easier and provinding more wheel- to-ground contact. The kit consist of a box full of plates, spacers, and fasteners to do everything from alter the shock angles to recalibrate the shock springs". If anyone gets the kit let us know how it does!!!