The Honda Rubicon is a legendary ATV, renowned for its ruggedness and reliability. But even this workhorse can benefit from a lift kit, enhancing its capabilities and off-road performance. This guide delves into the world of Honda Rubicon lift kits, helping you choose the perfect one for your needs and riding style.
Why Choose a Lift Kit for Your Honda Rubicon?
A lift kit significantly improves your Rubicon's performance and aesthetics in several ways:
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Increased Ground Clearance: This is the primary benefit. A higher ride height allows you to tackle more challenging terrain, confidently clearing obstacles like rocks, logs, and deep mud. Say goodbye to scraping your skid plate!
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Improved Suspension Articulation: A lift kit often comes with longer shocks or a-arms, improving suspension articulation. This means your wheels can maintain contact with the ground even on uneven terrain, improving traction and stability.
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Larger Tire Clearance: A lifted Rubicon can accommodate larger tires, providing even more ground clearance and traction. This is especially beneficial for serious mudding or rock crawling.
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Enhanced Appearance: Let's be honest, a lifted Rubicon just looks tougher and more impressive.
Types of Honda Rubicon Lift Kits
Several types of lift kits cater to different budgets and needs:
1. Budget-Friendly Spacers:
- Pros: These are the cheapest option, typically involving simple spacer installation between the frame and suspension components. Installation is usually straightforward.
- Cons: They don't improve suspension articulation and can put extra stress on your stock components. Often results in a less-than-ideal ride quality.
2. High-Lift Kits:
- Pros: These provide substantial lift, offering significant ground clearance improvements. They usually involve replacing or extending suspension components.
- Cons: More expensive and complex installation. May require additional modifications or adjustments.
3. Long Travel Kits:
- Pros: Maximize suspension travel, dramatically improving articulation and ride quality. Best for extreme off-roading.
- Cons: Most expensive and complex to install. May require other upgrades, such as stronger axles and CV joints.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lift Kit
Several factors influence your choice of Honda Rubicon lift kit:
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Budget: Lift kits range widely in price, from a few hundred dollars for basic spacers to over a thousand for high-performance long travel kits.
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Riding Style: If you primarily ride on mild trails, a budget-friendly spacer kit might suffice. Serious rock crawlers or mudders will need a higher-lift kit with improved articulation.
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Tire Size: Ensure the chosen lift kit accommodates your desired tire size. Larger tires will require more lift.
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Installation: Consider your mechanical skills. Some kits are easy to install yourself, while others require professional installation.
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Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer.
Maintaining Your Lifted Rubicon
After installing a lift kit, regularly inspect your suspension components for wear and tear. Regular maintenance, including checking your shocks and bearings, is crucial to ensure your Rubicon's safety and longevity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lift kit significantly enhances your Honda Rubicon’s off-road capabilities and appearance. Carefully consider your budget, riding style, and mechanical skills to select the kit that best meets your needs. Remember to prioritize safety and proper maintenance to enjoy your lifted Rubicon for years to come.
