I think you are correct Jack Shaft. I had the opportunity to ride passengers during our recent trip to northern Maine and the rear skid seemed to work well with the added weight. Perhaps my expectations are a bit high when solo-riding quickly on a rough trail. However, the Artic Cat Bearcat I ride with has a real cushy rear suspension and he smokes me in the rough stuff.
The VK is the best all-purpose sled for my uses...grooming a little, deep snow capability, good mileage and comfortable on those 200 plus mile days when touring on groomed trails. I've tightened the front shocks and it handles a little better in the corners. Next year I will go to 8" Stud Boy dual carbides and pull the limiter strap up one hole.