Ok, my brother has an 04' DS and he is thinking about selling it because he says the bike itself can't handle the power it provides from the engine. My brother and I have been riding since we were little kids and we know how to ride, we know mechanics and can pretty much hold our own when it comes to fixing most anything.......but, when it comes to suspension we are like kindergardeners trying to write a 15 page essay. My brothers comment about the bike actually handling the power I'm sure is out of frustration, as we all know the DS is an awesome handling ATV. The problem lies in the rear shock. I got my brother a little calmed down and he told me that he absolutely hates the rear shock. It feels like it is too stiff and when he's going down hills for instance and hits some bumps the rear end actually comes off of the ground instead of the shock soaking it up. I know the DS was basically designed for people that were 6' tall and weighed over 200 pounds........at least that's what dirtwheels claims. We are both 5'7" and I weigh 175 and he weighs 180. I bought my DS used and whoever adjusted the shocks did a tremedous job. My brother bought his brand new as a leftover and we are starting from scratch with his adjustments. He actually tried to adjust it a little by turning the lock at the top of the shock counterclockwise but it did not make much difference. He is thinking about just spending the $900.00 on a ELKA rear shock or just selling his DS and getting something else. So, can anyone help with the rear shock adjustments? Please break it down barney style as we are very ignorant on shock adjustments...........please help!

 

I had a similar problem when I bought my 2000 DS. Except my rear shock was totally wasted, I ended up buying a new one. What you should try is to adjust the highspeed damping, otherwise known as the little cyl under the battery. There is a little adjustment screw on the side, it adj. in clicks you will feel it when you turn it. Turn it in for a stiffer ride, turn it out for a softer ride, this will also help when jumping, making a softer landing. Hope that helps any.

 

Albabomb,

You should have gotten a manual with the DS, it gives the adjustment procedure for compression and rebound dampening adjustment also ride height. I would go through that process and see if it makes a difference.

 

ok sounds good guys....thanks

 

I weigh 175 also and you will need to adjust all 3 shocks the fronts are easy. Just put a jack under the front so the tires are off the ground ( a-arms at full travel down ). Then loosen the spring collar till the spring has no pressure and leave it there.

The Rear I turned the dampening screw out ALOT and I have no idea how many clicks. I also adjusted my rear spring so the collar went up (softer) but be very careful on this. You dont want to have the shock bottom out easy or you will rebound off the seat. That will work as a way to know if you have the collar too high. DS stock shock settings for us lightweight riders are harsh!

 

The DS rear shock is one of the best stock shocks on any bike. It has both compression and rebound adjustments. Compresion is on the rezivior and rebound is at the bottom of the shock. If he feels like it is too stiff then turn the compression adjuster (the one on the rezy) counter clockwise. Woth your weight I would turn it way down. Ride... adjust...ride... adjust... ride... adjust till you find the sweet spot. The shock can can absolutly be dialed in to your weight. These adjusters should always be adjusted to your (or your brothers) weight, and never left stock unless it feels good. It is an easy adjustment and can be fine tuned on the trail with the tools in the stock tool kit. Since my weight is up and down, er.. uh... because of my beer problem. I mess with this adjustment all the time. Good luck.

 

Thanks alot guys I really appreciate the info, it will definately help us out!!