Riding without swaybar

ViperTurboPete

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2015 Viper XTX LE MPI Turbo
2022 Expedition Extreme 850
As a flatlander would riding without a swaybar improve handling? I have read in this section that removing the swaybar is a huge improvement when riding in powder. My riding is on lakes, bush trails, and playing in powder when the opportunity arises. I know the swaybar is difficult to get at to remove. My sled is completely apart (with the subframe removed). Is it better just to disconnect the linkage at one side when powder presents itself or just get rid of it all together? My sled is 2008 if that makes any difference.
 
RX1MPete said:
As a flatlander would riding without a swaybar improve handling? Is it better just to disconnect the linkage at one side when powder presents itself or just get rid of it all together? My sled is 2008 if that makes any difference.

I add a locking pin to the wifes XTX swaybar for offtrail riding, but keep it im for trail riding.
 
RX1MPete
Most of the improvement that comes from removing the swaybar is in the ability to side hill because you are not fighting the swaybar trying to keep the skis level to each other. It makes it easier to roll the sled on its side. This is obviously not something you want or need riding on trails and lakes.

If your front shocks are stiff enough you could probably get aways from running a swaybar but then the ride is a lot rougher.

I would look into what APEX 06 suggested doing for those occasions you want to ride off trail.
 
My experience - if you are riding extremely rough trails - take it out and hide it in a place where you will never find it. Ten times better for the pure bump absorption and the stability through rough sections. Combine the sway bar removal with little bit stiffer front springs and a very small addition of compression damping. DO NOT add spring preload, as this will raise your center of gravity and destroy the cornering.

If you are riding smooth trails only - leave it in and leave the front suspension as it is.
 
Ditto Alatalo. You get much better shock absorption with the independent skis. Go to air shocks and it's even better IMO.
 


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