Click To Schedule Can Am Maverick Tuning In Wichita, KS
Call Big Dog Powersports: (316) 260-8039
When it comes to squeezing the best performance out of your Can-Am Maverick SxS, suspension tuning is a game changer. Whether you’re blasting through Kansas trails, carving through sand dunes, or tackling steep climbs and rocky terrain, the right suspension setup can make the difference between a wild, confidence-inspiring ride and one that leaves you bouncing, bottoming out, or worse—breaking parts.
At Big Dog Powersports in Wichita, we know Can-Am Mavericks inside and out, and we’re here to help you understand how suspension tuning can dramatically improve your machine’s performance, handling, and overall safety.
Understanding Stock Suspension Tuning
Right off the showroom floor, the Can-Am Maverick comes with a well-rounded suspension setup that works decently for a variety of terrains. Stock tuning is ideal for:
- Casual trail riders
- Recreational users
- Light to moderate speed driving
- Mild terrain with minimal elevation change or obstacles
The factory settings prioritize a balance between comfort and performance, which works well if you’re not pushing your machine to its limits. But once you start modifying your SxS, riding more aggressively, or exploring more challenging terrain, it’s time to rethink your suspension setup.
Trail Riding vs. Sand Dunes: What’s the Difference?
Trail Riding in Kansas or the Midwest usually means rutted paths, tree roots, rocks, and mixed surfaces. Ideal suspension tuning here focuses on:
- Moderate stiffness for handling bumps without bouncing
- Responsive damping for directional control
- Adjustable rebound to keep tires planted without kicking
Sand Dunes, on the other hand, demand a softer, more fluid suspension setup:
- Lower compression settings to float and absorb whoops
- Longer travel and softer springs for smooth landings and transitions
- Rebound tuned to minimize bucking on high-speed dune transitions
Tuning for dunes also often includes lowering tire pressure and possibly revalving shocks to accommodate the flow and constant movement of the sand.
High-Performance Hill Climbing & Rock Crawling
This is where things get serious. Whether you’re hitting the hills or crawling boulders, your suspension has to be dialed in for control, traction, and durability.
- Hill Climbers need a stiffer rear setup to reduce squat under acceleration and maintain traction under load.
- Rock Crawlers benefit from more articulation and slower rebound to keep all four wheels on the ground over uneven terrain.
In both cases, upgraded shocks with high- and low-speed compression adjustments, tuned springs, and possibly long-travel kits can make a world of difference.
Lifting Your Maverick? Bigger Tires = Bigger Demands
Lift kits and oversized tires are a popular mod—but they definitely affect your suspension geometry and tuning needs.
- Larger tire diameters change the leverage on your suspension system. This increases unsprung weight and can throw off stock valving.
- Lifts change shock angles and can stress CV joints and bushings if not properly accounted for.
To keep things riding smooth (and safe), you’ll likely need:
- Revalved shocks or upgraded aftermarket units
- Stiffer springs or dual-rate spring kits
- Alignment correction (A-arms, radius rods, etc.)
Neglecting this can lead to premature wear on suspension components, poor handling, and even a higher risk of rollovers or mechanical failures.
What Happens When Suspension Isn’t Tuned or Maintained?
Poorly tuned or neglected suspension can result in:
- Reduced ride comfort
- Excessive bottoming out or topping out
- Increased wear on bushings, ball joints, and shocks
- Loss of control in corners or over bumps
- Safety hazards during high-speed or technical riding
Regular inspections and adjustments can prevent most of these issues and keep your Maverick performing at its peak.
Time for a Suspension Check-Up? We’ve Got You Covered.
If you’re running larger tires, lifting your rig, hitting the dunes, or just want to squeeze every bit of performance out of your Can-Am Maverick, now is the time to get your suspension tuned properly.
👉 Big Dog Powersports in Wichita, Kansas offers full suspension inspections, shock tuning, rebuilds, and custom upgrade packages tailored to how you ride. Whether it’s maintenance or performance tuning, we’ll help you get the most out of your Maverick.
Call us today, stop or the shop to schedule your suspension inspection and get a quote on upgrades that fit your ride and your goals.
Your Maverick deserves it—and so do you. 💪
Big Dog Powersports Wichita, Kansas