KDX Sand Handling

[rohann]

Hey Guys,

I need some advice on the KDX handling in sand. I feel that the front end is very loose in riding in sand and she is everywhere.

What causes this and how can one remedy the problem?

Thanx,
Rohann

[gregp]

Lower the rear end by reducing spring preload and compression damping. Drop your forks in the clamps as far as you can, and increase compression damping.

[pumpguy]

I have no experience with a KDX in sand but as a general rule, a greater rake angle for the fork and a fatter front tire are good for sand. Longer dogbone links for the rear suspension or changing the frame's steering head angle (not recommended) will increase the rake angle. The KDX is listed @ 26.5 degrees. I wouldn't go beyond 28 degrees. Keep in mind that these changes will make tight woods and other technical riding more difficult.

Riding sand requires speed to float on top of it. The 'bars may wiggle a little but don't be afraid, just CRANK IT ON! If you slow down, the front wheel will dig in and dump you and then you'll have to start out all over.

Good luck.

[fuzzy]

Jet fat!

[SS109]

More speed!

Seriously, more speed will help keep your front from digging into the sand. I had never ridden in sand before moving to AZ and it scared the crap out of me at first. I went down too many times to count. I finally started listening to everyone that told me to go faster and it would get easier. I started doing and lo and behold they were right. I absolutely love ride sand now. Especially wet sand!

[terminatr]

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I'm not a good rider by any stretch of imagination. But I don't ride fast in the sand. I just make sure I hold a steady throttle, and if I feel like the front is plowing, I add a little more throttle. I don't chop throttle to slow down. I don't go fast like people say, because there're lots of trees on both sides on the trails here. I also found out that standing up on the peg makes sand riding ten times easier than sitting back on the seat like people say. I don't know why. I just kept trying and found out what works for me. I don't fall anymore in the sand.
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[turtle]

Go fast and keep your weight back seems to work best for me. And +1 on the wet sand ... fun!