My 02 700 has the highlifter kit installed. When I first put it in a had over 13" in front and 15" in back, with stock tires. that was put in about 200 miles ago. Just got a 03 500 HO, and while I realize it isn't broken in at all, why is it as tall as the lifted 700, and have as much ground clearance. I feel like the riding abuse and tire wear (about 25% worn) must have knocked down the GC. Or is it possible that the 03 500 HO is actually that high? Has anyone else noticed this? I need to measure again to see if I've actually lost some. I don't want to lose GC, I want to gain it!

 

After a lot of riding, your 700 springs will sag, thus losing GC. The 500 is brand new, so the springs will be stiff, but after awhile they will sag too.