Upgrade Your 300ex Performance with Aftermarket Shocks

Upgrading Your 300ex Shocks

The Honda 300ex is one of the most popular sport ATVs thanks to its great combination of performance and reliability. However, over time the stock shock absorbers can begin to wear out, reducing comfort and handling. Upgrading to an aftermarket set of shocks is one of the best ways to breathe new life into your aging 300ex.

Why Upgrade Your 300ex Shocks

There are several reasons you may want to upgrade the shocks on your 300ex:

• The stock shocks use a basic design with limited adjustability and mediocre performance
• After years of use, the suspension oil can break down, reducing damping performance
• New shocks can provide better bump absorption and increased comfort
• Quality aftermarket shocks improve stability and handling for faster cornering and terrain response

Popular Aftermarket Brands

There are many companies that manufacture upgrade shocks for the 300ex. Some popular options include:

• Fox Racing Shox - High-end shocks designed for motocross with excellent damping and smooth performance
• Works Performance - Offer shock rebuilds and full replacement kits with tunable compression and rebound
• Elka Suspension - Premium shocks made in the USA featuring high flow pistons and position sensitive damping
• FAST Ace - Affordable performance shocks with tough steel construction and multi-adjustable damping

Key Features to Look For

When choosing new 300ex shocks, there are a few key features to consider:

• Adjustability - The ability to tune compression and rebound damping allows customizing for your weight and riding style
• High Flow Pistons - Pistons with increased oil flow provide better cooling and fade resistance
• Strong Construction - Materials like steel alloy and rigid mounts prevent flex for precise response
• Rebuildability - Being able to service and rebuild shocks extends their usable life significantly

How to Install 300ex Shocks

Putting new shocks on your 300ex is a straightforward process any home mechanic can tackle in an afternoon. Here is an overview of the installation process:

1. Raise the rear of the ATV securely on a lift or stands for access
2. Remove body panels as needed for clear access to the shock mounts
3. Support the rear swingarm to prevent dropping when shocks are removed
4. Remove the old shocks by disconnecting the lower and upper mounts
5. Compare stock shock length and eyelet size to new shocks before installing
6. Attach new shocks reusing existing mounting hardware unless otherwise specified
7. Tighten all mounting hardware to factory torque specifications
8. Reinstall removed parts before lowering machine back to the ground

Tuning and Setup Recommendations

To get the best performance from your new aftermarket 300ex shocks, proper tuning and adjustment is crucial. Here are some tips:

• Set preload between 30-35mm to compensate for weight of gear and cargo
• Start compression damping soft and increase until bottoming resistance feels progressive
• Run rebound damping at minimum setting then slowly increase to control topping out
• Adjust in 1-2 click increments at front and rear for balanced handling
• Fine tune ride height by altering spring preload settings

Where to Buy 300ex Shocks

There are many options when it comes time to purchase new shocks for your 300ex:

• Local Dealerships - OEM and aftermarket shocks can be purchased in person and often installed too
• Motocross Websites - Retailers like Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, MotoSport, and Dennis Kirk carry a huge selection online
• eBay - Many individual sellers offer new and used shock options in online auctions
• Forums/Groups - The 300ex community often buys/sells OEM and aftermarket parts through forum classifieds

Prices for new replacement shocks start around $100 but most riders look to spend $300-600 for an upgraded set from reputable brands offering noticeable performance gains over stock. 300ex shock components also appear frequently in eBay auctions which can sometimes score you lightly used parts for bargain prices.

By properly upgrading the worn stock shocks, your aging 300ex can handle bumps better than ever. More plush suspension gives you increased control to push your riding faster and farther. So if your quad feels a bit rough around the edges, a set of new quality shocks can restore that silky smooth feeling you remember from years ago.

FAQs

What is the stock shock length on a 300ex?

The stock shock length on all model years of the Honda 300ex is 12.7 inches (323mm).

Do I need any special tools to install new shocks?

You may need metric sockets, allen wrenches, and a torque wrench to remove the old shocks and install new ones properly. But most installations can be done with basic hand tools.

Will longer travel shocks improve performance?

Going with a longer shock than stock (such as 13.5") will increase plushness and provide more downward wheel travel. But taller shocks can negatively impact stability if the coil spring rate and valving aren't set up properly.

What is a piggyback shock design?

Piggyback shocks feature an external reservoir to house excess oil, allowing for cooler operating temps, better damping control, and a more durable long-lasting design over standard shock layouts.