You love your Can-Am Ryker. It’s nimble, it’s stylish, and it turns heads everywhere you go. But you’ve probably noticed its low-slung stance can be a bit of a liability, especially if you encounter steep driveways, speed bumps, or less-than-perfect backroads. You agree that a little extra height would make a world of difference, right?
We promise this is the only guide you’ll need. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about a can am ryker lift kit, from the real-world benefits to a detailed, step-by-step installation process you can tackle in your own garage.
In this article, you’ll learn why a lift kit is one of the best mods for your Ryker, how to choose the perfect one, and exactly how to install it safely. Let’s get your Ryker sitting tall and ready for anything.
Why Even Consider a Can-Am Ryker Lift Kit? The Core Benefits
Before you grab your tools, it’s important to understand what you’re gaining. A lift kit isn’t just about looks; it’s a functional upgrade that can transform your riding experience. Here are the primary benefits of a can am ryker lift kit.
Enhanced Ground Clearance
This is the number one reason riders install a lift kit. The stock Ryker sits low, making it prone to scraping its underbelly on speed bumps, potholes, and steep inclines. A lift kit, typically adding 1-2 inches of height, gives you the clearance you need to navigate everyday obstacles without that cringe-inducing scraping sound.
Improved Rider Comfort and Posture
A subtle lift can change the ergonomics of your Ryker for the better. By raising the chassis, you slightly alter your seating position, which can lead to a more comfortable, upright posture. For taller riders, this can be a game-changer on longer trips, reducing strain on the back and knees.
A More Aggressive, Commanding Stance
Let’s be honest—a lifted Ryker just looks tougher. It fills out the wheel wells and gives the machine a more muscular, commanding presence on the road. It’s a simple modification that makes a huge visual impact, setting your Ryker apart from the stock crowd.
Choosing the Right Kit: What to Look For
Not all lift kits are created equal. Making the right choice upfront will save you headaches down the road. This is your essential can am ryker lift kit guide to picking the best option for your ride and budget.
Material and Build Quality
Most lift kits consist of relocation brackets for your shocks. Look for kits made from high-strength materials like laser-cut, powder-coated steel or billet aluminum. Steel is incredibly durable and often more affordable, while aluminum is lighter and naturally corrosion-resistant. A quality powder coat is crucial to prevent rust, especially if you ride in wet conditions.
Lift Height: How Much is Too Much?
For the Ryker, most kits offer between 1 and 2 inches of lift. This is the sweet spot. It provides noticeable clearance without drastically altering the suspension geometry or center of gravity. Going higher can lead to handling issues and put excessive strain on CV joints and other components, so stick to reputable brands offering modest, well-engineered lifts.
Considering a Sustainable Can-Am Ryker Lift Kit
While a lift kit itself isn’t an eco-product, you can make an eco-friendly choice. A sustainable can am ryker lift kit is one built to last. Choosing a kit made from high-grade, properly coated steel means it won’t rust out and need replacing. This “buy it for life” approach reduces waste and the environmental impact of manufacturing and shipping a replacement part later on.
Your Step-by-Step Can Am Ryker Lift Kit Guide to Installation
Alright, time to get our hands dirty. This guide will walk you through the general process. Remember to always follow the specific instructions provided with your kit. Safety is paramount, so take your time and do it right.
Pre-Installation Checklist: Tools and Prep Work
Gather everything you need before you start. There’s nothing worse than having your Ryker on stands and realizing you’re missing a tool.
- A good quality motorcycle jack or automotive floor jack and sturdy jack stands.
- A full socket and ratchet set (metric).
- A set of combination wrenches.
- A torque wrench (this is non-negotiable for safety).
- Blue threadlocker (Loctite).
- The instructions that came with your lift kit.
Step 1: Safely Lifting and Securing Your Ryker
Park your Ryker on a flat, level surface like a garage floor. Use your jack to lift the front end of the machine, placing the jack on a solid frame point. Once it’s high enough to get the front wheels off the ground, place jack stands securely under the frame on both sides. Gently lower the Ryker onto the stands and ensure it is stable before proceeding.
Step 2: Removing the Front Shocks
With the front end securely in the air, remove the front wheels. This will give you clear access to the shock absorbers. Locate the top and bottom mounting bolts for one of the front shocks. Use your socket set and wrenches to carefully remove these bolts and set the shock aside.
Step 3: Installing the New Lift Brackets
This is the core of the installation. Your kit will include brackets that relocate the shock mounting points. Following your kit’s instructions, install the new bracket where the shock was originally mounted. Apply a dab of blue threadlocker to the new hardware provided with the kit and tighten the bolts. Do not fully torque them yet.
Step 4: Reinstalling the Shocks and Wheels
Mount the shock absorber to the new location on the lift bracket. Again, use threadlocker on the bolts and snug them up. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the other side. Once both sides are done, you can use your torque wrench to tighten all mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque settings. This is a critical safety step!
Reinstall your front wheels and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the Ryker off the jack stands.
Step 5: Post-Installation Checks
With the Ryker back on the ground, bounce the front suspension a few times to let everything settle. Check your tire pressure. The most important step is to take it for a short, slow test ride in a safe area to see how it feels. Listen for any unusual noises and check the handling.
Common Problems with Can Am Ryker Lift Kit Installations
Even with careful work, you might run into an issue. Here are a few common problems and how to troubleshoot them. These are some of the best can am ryker lift kit tips you can get.
Suspension Feels Stiff
A slight increase in stiffness is normal, as you’ve changed the suspension geometry. However, if it feels overly harsh, double-check that you installed the brackets correctly and that the shocks are not binding. Also, ensure your shock preload is set appropriately for your weight.
Alignment and Handling Issues
Lifting the Ryker can slightly alter its alignment. If you notice the steering feels off or it pulls to one side, you may need a professional alignment. For a 1-2 inch lift, this is often not necessary, but it’s something to be aware of.
New Noises: Clicks, Clunks, or Squeaks
Noises are your Ryker’s way of telling you something is loose. The first thing to do is go back and re-check the torque on every single bolt you touched. A loose shock mount is the most common culprit. A little grease on the shock bushings can also cure squeaks.
The Long Haul: Your Can Am Ryker Lift Kit Care Guide
Your new lift kit is installed, but the job isn’t over. Proper care ensures it remains safe and performs well for years. Following these can am ryker lift kit best practices is key.
Regular Inspection Schedule
After your first 50 miles of riding, do a full inspection. Get your torque wrench back out and re-torque all the lift kit hardware. Bolts can settle and loosen slightly after the initial installation. After that, make it a habit to visually inspect the brackets and bolts every time you wash your Ryker or perform other maintenance.
Cleaning and Corrosion Prevention
Keep the lift components clean, especially if you ride in rain or on dusty roads. Dirt and moisture can compromise the powder coating over time and lead to rust. A simple wash and rinse is all it takes to extend the life of your kit.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Ryker Lift Kit
Does installing a lift kit void my Ryker’s warranty?
This is a common concern. Generally, installing an aftermarket part like a lift kit will not void your entire vehicle warranty. However, if a failure occurs that can be directly attributed to the lift kit (like a damaged shock or control arm), the dealer may deny the warranty claim for that specific repair. It’s always best to check with your local dealer.
Will a lift kit affect my Ryker’s handling?
Yes, but minimally with a 1-2 inch lift. You are raising the center of gravity, so you may notice a very slight difference in aggressive cornering. For most everyday riding and touring, the change is negligible and is far outweighed by the benefits of increased ground clearance and improved comfort.
Can I install a lift kit myself, or do I need a professional?
If you have basic mechanical skills, a good set of tools (especially a torque wrench), and can follow instructions carefully, this is a very manageable DIY project. If you are not comfortable working on suspension components, it’s always safest to have a professional powersports mechanic do the installation.
Lifting your Can-Am Ryker is one of the most rewarding and practical upgrades you can make. It solves the machine’s biggest weakness—its low ground clearance—while adding a dose of aggressive style. By following this guide, you’re well on your way to a more capable and comfortable ride.
Take your time, prioritize safety, and enjoy the new view from your lifted Ryker. Ride safe and have fun out there!
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