Ever feel that bone-jarring slam when you hit a deep rut, or notice your Renegade squatting lower than it used to? That feeling of your suspension bottoming out or floating unpredictably isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a cry for help from your shocks. You know your rig is a beast, but even the toughest machines need a dialed-in suspension to perform at their peak.
We promise this guide will demystify one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, aspects of your ride: the 2016 Can Am Renegade 1000 XMR shock length. Getting this right is the key to unlocking better handling, more ground clearance, and a safer, more enjoyable experience in the mud and on the trails.
Get ready to dive deep. We’re covering factory specs, how to measure your shocks like a pro, common problems to watch for, and what you need to know before considering an upgrade. Let’s get that suspension dialed in.
Why Your 2016 Can Am Renegade 1000 XMR Shock Length is So Critical
It’s easy to think of shocks as simple springs that absorb bumps. But on a high-performance machine like the Renegade XMR, their length is a critical piece of a much larger puzzle. It’s not just a number; it’s the foundation of your ATV’s handling and capability.
The correct shock length directly dictates your machine’s ride height, which in turn affects your ground clearance. An inch too short, and you’re dragging your skid plate over obstacles you used to clear. An inch too long, and you’re creating other serious issues. The many benefits of 2016 can am renegade 1000 xmr shock length being correct are immediately noticeable on the trail.
More importantly, shock length has a massive impact on your CV (Constant Velocity) axle angles. Shocks that are too long can put your axles at an extreme angle, leading to premature wear, torn boots, and catastrophic failure when you can least afford it. Getting the length right protects your entire drivetrain.
Key Suspension Geometry Factors
- Ride Height: The primary factor determining your ground clearance and center of gravity.
- CV Axle Angle: Incorrect length drastically increases wear and tear on your axles.
- Handling & Stability: Proper length ensures predictable handling in corners and over rough terrain.
- Component Stress: The right shocks prevent unnecessary stress on ball joints, tie rods, and A-arm bushings.
Factory OEM Shock Lengths: The Baseline You Need to Know
Before you can diagnose a problem or plan an upgrade, you need to know the factory specifications. The 2016 Renegade 1000 XMR came equipped with impressive FOX Podium 1.5 QS3 piggyback shocks, which set a high standard for performance.
Here are the widely accepted, approximate eye-to-eye measurements for the stock shocks when fully extended. Always use these as a reference point, as minor variations can exist.
- Front Shock Length: Approximately 20.5 inches (521mm) from the center of the top mounting eye to the center of the bottom mounting eye.
- Rear Shock Length: Approximately 22 inches (559mm) from the center of the top mounting eye to the center of the bottom mounting eye.
These numbers represent the shock’s fully extended length, also known as “full droop.” This is the most reliable way to measure a shock off the machine or with the suspension hanging freely. Don’t confuse this with the compressed length or the length at static ride height, which will be shorter.
How to Accurately Measure Your Shocks: The Right Way
Guessing your shock length can lead to buying the wrong parts and creating new problems. Learning how to 2016 can am renegade 1000 xmr shock length is a fundamental skill. Follow these steps for an accurate measurement.
Tools You’ll Need
- A quality tape measure or ruler
- ATV jack or lift
- Sturdy jack stands (never work under a machine supported only by a jack)
- Basic socket set and wrenches to remove the shock (if measuring off the machine)
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
- Safety First: Park your Renegade on a flat, level surface. Ensure it’s in park and the parking brake is engaged.
- Lift the Machine: Use your jack to lift the front or rear of the ATV until the tires are completely off the ground. This allows the suspension to fully extend.
- Secure with Jack Stands: Place jack stands securely under the frame to support the machine. Double-check that it is stable before proceeding.
- Measure Eye-to-Eye: With the shock still mounted and the suspension at full droop, carefully measure the distance from the absolute center of the top mounting bolt (the “eye”) to the absolute center of the bottom mounting bolt. This is your extended eye-to-eye length.
- For Ultimate Accuracy: The best method is to remove the shock entirely. This eliminates any potential for binding or tension in the suspension components, giving you a perfect measurement.
- Compare to Spec: Compare your measurement to the OEM specs listed above. If your shock is significantly shorter, it’s likely worn out and sagging internally.
Common Problems With 2016 Can Am Renegade 1000 XMR Shock Length Issues
An incorrect shock length, whether from wear and tear or a poorly chosen aftermarket part, will cause noticeable issues. Here are some of the most common problems with 2016 can am renegade 1000 xmr shock length that we see in the shop.
Signs of Shocks That Are Worn or Too Short
This is the most frequent issue. Over time, internal seals wear out, nitrogen pressure is lost, and the shock begins to sag.
- Bottoming Out: The most obvious sign. You’ll feel a harsh “clunk” as the suspension runs out of travel over bumps or jumps.
- Reduced Ground Clearance: Your machine will visibly sit lower, causing you to get hung up on obstacles more easily.
- Nose-Diving Under Braking: When you hit the brakes, the front end will dip excessively, making the machine feel unstable.
- Harsh, Bouncy Ride: Without proper damping, the machine will feel less controlled and bounce more after hitting a bump.
Signs of Shocks That Are Too Long
This usually happens when someone installs aftermarket shocks that aren’t designed for the stock geometry, often in a misguided attempt to get a “free” lift.
- Topping Out: You’ll hear a loud “thud” as the shock extends to its absolute limit, yanking on all your suspension components.
- Extreme CV Axle Angles: This is dangerous. Look at your axles. If they are at a sharp, aggressive angle at normal ride height, your shocks are too long. This will destroy them in short order.
- Unstable, “Tippy” Feeling: Raising the center of gravity without other modifications can make the ATV feel unstable in corners.
- Binding Suspension: Over-extending the suspension can cause ball joints and other components to bind, limiting travel and leading to premature failure.
Your 2016 Can Am Renegade 1000 XMR Shock Length Guide for Upgrades
Ready to replace your worn-out stockers or upgrade for better performance? This 2016 can am renegade 1000 xmr shock length guide will help you make the right choice for your riding style.
Sticking with OEM Length: The Safe Bet
For most riders, replacing worn shocks with new ones that match the factory length is the best option. It maintains the engineered handling characteristics and ensures you won’t create unintended problems with suspension geometry. You can find quality OEM-spec replacements that restore your ride to factory-fresh performance.
Upgrading to Aftermarket Shocks
If you’re a serious mudder or aggressive trail rider, a high-quality aftermarket shock from a brand like Elka, FOX, or Shock Therapy can be a game-changer. Here’s what to look for:
- Adjustability: Look for shocks with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound. This allows you to fine-tune the ride for your weight, accessories, and terrain.
- Correct Length: Reputable brands will sell shocks specifically valved and sized for your 2016 XMR. Do not buy a generic shock just because it’s the right length.
- Build Quality: Features like larger shock bodies, stronger shafts, and better seals mean more durability and better performance under pressure.
A Note on Lift Kits
It’s crucial to understand how a lift kit impacts your shocks.
- Bracket Lifts: These kits relocate the shock mounting points. You continue to use the stock length shock. The lift comes from changing the suspension’s leverage ratio.
- Suspension Lifts: Some more advanced (and expensive) kits may use longer A-arms and require a longer-than-stock shock to achieve the lift. These are complete systems designed to work together.
Best Practices for Shock Installation and Maintenance
Once you have your new shocks, proper installation and care are key to their longevity. Following these 2016 can am renegade 1000 xmr shock length best practices will protect your investment.
Installation Pro-Tips
- Use a Torque Wrench: Always tighten mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Over-tightening can crush bushings, and under-tightening can be disastrous.
- Apply Blue Loctite: Use a medium-strength threadlocker on the shock mounting bolts to prevent them from vibrating loose on the trail.
- Don’t Cross-Thread: Start all bolts by hand to ensure they are threaded correctly before putting a wrench on them.
- Cycle the Suspension: After installation, lower the machine and bounce on the suspension a few times to help everything settle into place before a final torque check.
Your Shock Care Guide
Your shocks live a hard life. A little TLC goes a long way. This simple 2016 can am renegade 1000 xmr shock length care guide is easy to follow.
Clean your shocks after every muddy or dusty ride. Caked-on grit can work its way past the seals, causing leaks and internal damage. This is the most sustainable approach to parts ownership, as it extends component life and reduces waste.
Regularly inspect the shock body for oil leaks, check the shafts for pits or damage, and examine the bushings for cracks or excessive wear. A well-maintained shock is an eco-friendly shock because it stays on your rig and out of the landfill.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2016 Can Am Renegade 1000 XMR Shock Length
What are the stock shock lengths for a 2016 Renegade 1000 XMR?
The approximate fully extended, eye-to-eye measurements are 20.5 inches for the front shocks and 22 inches for the rear shocks. Always measure your own for confirmation.
Can I use shocks from a Can-Am Outlander on my Renegade XMR?
Generally, no. While some models share frame components, the shock lengths, valving, and spring rates are often different to account for variations in weight, wheelbase, and intended use. Always use shocks specifically designed for the 2016 Renegade 1000 XMR.
How does a 2-inch bracket lift affect my shock length?
A standard bracket lift does not change the required shock length. The brackets relocate the mounting points, but you will still use the stock-length shock (approx. 20.5″ front, 22″ rear). Installing longer shocks with a bracket lift will cause severe suspension binding and damage.
How often should I inspect or replace my ATV shocks?
Inspect them before every major ride. Look for leaks or damage. There’s no set replacement interval; it depends entirely on your riding hours and terrain. A casual rider might get years of service, while a serious racer or mudder might need a rebuild or replacement every season.
Understanding and maintaining the correct 2016 Can Am Renegade 1000 XMR shock length is fundamental to the performance and safety of your machine. Whether you’re restoring its factory prowess with OEM-spec replacements or upgrading for a competitive edge, you now have the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Take your time, use the right tools, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. A well-sorted suspension is one of the best upgrades you can make.
Now get out there, ride with confidence, and stay safe on the trails!
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