Adventures are part of every young one’s life. Dirt biking is an exhilarating adventure that gives adolescents the chance to explore the thrills of biking. Whether it is a Coleman 250 UTV or Coolster 125 cc ATV, youngsters can have great adventures and remain safe due to the safety-heavy design of these vehicles. But, the trick to ensuring safety is to maintain these vehicles well. One critical component is the suspension and the shocks. Let us look at how it’s working and how the Coleman 250 UTV shocks and Coolster 125 cc ATV need to be cared for.
How does the suspension of a UTV work?
The suspension system of a UTV has two components: the spring and a dampener. The role of the spring is to absorb big road bumps. The shock absorber softens the motion of the spring. When they work as a union, it ensures you do not bounce around when you hit a rut.
UTV’s suspension system has the following features:
- Tender springs: A smaller spring sits above the primary spring. It absorbs the initial energy when the bike hits more minor bumps.
- Dependent suspension system: These springs and shock absorbers are connected between the axle for a sustainable suspension system.
- Swingarm: This is the most critical component of the rear suspension. It is commonly used in modern motorbikes and ATVs
How long do UTV shocks last?
Because UTVs are used for several ‘utility’ purposes and may carry heavy weights, the shocks and struts are designed to last 50,000–100,000 miles. However, this timeline will depend on the usage as well. Using the Coleman 250 on rough roads and aggressive driving cannot ensure a long life for the shocks.
How do you identify worn shocks?
Some of the most common after-effects of worn shocks range from nose dive when braking to swaying when cornering. Sometimes, you have a bouncy ride on even roads with consistent vehicle rolls. It would be best to look out for uneven tire wear and vibrations in the steering wheel. While you will experience rear squats during acceleration, the most significant symptom is the leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks.
How do you maintain shocks?
If you drive at moderate speeds and do not stress the vehicle, you can extend the life of the shocks. Additionally, the shocks can last longer if you service every year or when the car has covered over 2,000–2,500 miles. If you see the wear and tear increase, you can replace it every 50,000 miles.
Should front and rear shocks be replaced at the same time?
Experts have found that replacing shocks in pairs is highly effective, although not technically necessary. A new shock has different damping characteristics than an old one. Hence, it could lead to weird steering behavior, loss of grip on one wheel, and uneven tire wear.
However, it is highly recommended that you replace the shocks simultaneously for effective results. This recommendation is because all four shocks have been on the vehicle for the exact miles and worked under the same conditions. Front and rear shocks wear out at different rates. However, only one may be bad while the others are in good shape.
Conclusion
Whether using a Coleman 250 UTV or a Coolster 125cc ATV, shocks are vital components that ensure your vehicle works smoothly. You need to become familiar with how your car behaves when taking a bend or a curve or unexpected bouncing of the vehicle. These telltale signs of shock wearing out are sufficient warning you need to replace the shocks.
