I bought my Rancher about 4 months ago and I have noticed the ride being tight. The rebound does get better. My girlfriend normally rides with me and this helps. I have noticed when riding by myself at first was beating me up but it seems much better now. The shocks will get a little softer but if you are looking for a very smooth ride I would look into aftermarket shocks. I would take killer's advise and put something on the racks or ride two people for a while and see if that softens them a little. It worked for me, well I can see if a difference but it is still a little tight.

 

Also a cooler is NOT a good idea to put on the racks because whatever is in it; coke, beer, etc will spew. LOL