Hey guys! If you're rocking a 2017 Polaris General and looking to seriously level up your off-road game, then you've probably been eyeing those sweet Fox shocks. Seriously, upgrading your suspension is one of the most impactful things you can do for your ride, and when it comes to performance and durability, Fox is a name that consistently shines. We're talking about transforming your General from a capable machine into an absolute beast that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it. Whether you're tackling gnarly trails, hitting some serious mud, or just want a smoother, more controlled ride, the right Fox shocks can make all the difference. Let's dive deep into why these are such a popular choice for the 2017 Polaris General and what you can expect when you bolt them on.

Why Fox Shocks for Your 2017 Polaris General?

So, why are 2017 Polaris General Fox shocks such a hot topic among off-road enthusiasts? It really boils down to performance, adjustability, and sheer durability. Fox is a brand that's been in the game for a long time, building a reputation for high-quality suspension components that can withstand the abuse of serious off-roading. For your 2017 Polaris General, these aren't just any shocks; they are designed to complement the vehicle's existing platform while providing a significant boost in performance. Imagine hitting those rough trails, those jarring bumps that usually make you wince, and instead feeling a controlled, plush ride. That's the Fox difference. They offer superior damping capabilities, meaning they can effectively control the spring's oscillations, preventing that bouncy, uncontrolled feeling you get with stock suspension. This translates to better handling, improved stability, and a more comfortable ride, especially over long distances or challenging terrain. Furthermore, many Fox shock options for the General come with a degree of adjustability. This is huge, guys! It means you can fine-tune your suspension to your specific riding style and the conditions you encounter. Want a firmer ride for high-speed desert runs? No problem. Need a softer setting for crawling over rocks? You got it. This level of customization is what separates a good suspension from a great one, and Fox delivers it in spades.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your Suspension

Let's be real, the stock suspension on any UTV is often a compromise. Manufacturers have to cater to a broad audience, and while it might be adequate for casual trail riding, it often falls short when you start pushing your 2017 Polaris General to its limits. Upgrading to premium Fox shocks is like giving your General a massive performance upgrade that pays dividends in multiple ways. First and foremost, comfort. Those jarring impacts that rattle your teeth and make your arms ache after a day of riding? Fox shocks are designed to absorb these impacts far more effectively. They utilize advanced valving and high-quality damping fluids to dissipate energy, smoothing out the ride considerably. This means you can ride longer, harder, and with less fatigue. Comfort is king when you're out on the trails for hours. But it's not just about comfort; it's also about control and capability. When your suspension can't keep up, your tires lose contact with the ground over bumps, leading to a loss of traction and control. Fox shocks, with their superior damping, help keep your tires firmly planted, allowing you to maintain traction, corner with more confidence, and navigate obstacles with greater ease. This enhanced control translates directly to improved safety and the ability to tackle terrain that you might have previously avoided. Think about hitting whoops – with good shocks, you can fly through them; with stock, you're bracing for impact. The difference is night and day. Plus, many aftermarket Fox shocks are built tougher than stock, using stronger materials and more robust construction to handle the increased stresses of aggressive riding, meaning they'll likely last longer and require less maintenance in the long run. It’s an investment that enhances your entire off-road experience.

Popular Fox Shock Models for the 2017 Polaris General

When you start looking into 2017 Polaris General Fox shocks, you'll find a few key players that stand out. While specific models can vary based on year and configuration, for the 2017 General, you're often looking at options that build upon Fox's renowned Performance Series and 2.0 or 2.5 Factory Series shocks. The Fox 2.0 Performance Series shocks are a fantastic entry point into the world of upgraded suspension. These are typically reservoir shocks, meaning they have an external reservoir that holds additional oil and allows for better heat dissipation. This is crucial for maintaining consistent damping performance, especially during long, hard rides where stock shocks can start to fade. They offer a significant improvement in ride quality and control over stock, with adjustable spring preload to help you dial in the ride height and corner weighting. They're designed to be a direct bolt-on replacement, making installation relatively straightforward for most DIYers. Moving up the ladder, you might encounter Fox 2.5 Factory Series shocks. These are the cream of the crop for many riders. The 2.5-inch diameter body allows for more damping fluid and a larger piston, providing even better heat management and control. These often feature Teflon-lined heat-treated seamless DOM bodies for maximum durability and corrosion resistance, and their spring-loaded internal floating piston (IFP) design separates the shock oil from the nitrogen gas, preventing aeration and ensuring consistent performance. Many of these Factory Series shocks also come with T3 Dual Speed Compression (DSC) or LSC (Low-Speed Compression) adjusters, giving you even more fine-tuning capability. This allows you to adjust how the shock reacts to both small, high-speed impacts (like chatter bumps) and larger, slower movements (like body roll or bottoming out). If you're serious about performance and want the best possible ride for your 2017 Polaris General, the Factory Series shocks are definitely worth considering. Remember to always check compatibility with your specific General model and trim level, as sometimes there can be slight variations.

Installation and Adjustments: Getting the Most Out of Your Shocks

Alright guys, you've got your shiny new 2017 Polaris General Fox shocks, and you're itching to get them installed. The good news is that for most models, these are designed as direct bolt-on replacements, meaning you can often tackle the installation yourself with basic tools and a little patience. However, proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. You'll typically need to remove the old shocks, which involves unbolting them from the frame and suspension arms. Make sure to support the vehicle securely before you start removing any suspension components. When installing the new Fox shocks, pay close attention to the torque specifications for all the mounting hardware. Over-tightening can damage components, while under-tightening can be a serious safety hazard. Once the shocks are installed, it's time for the fun part: adjustments! If your Fox shocks have adjustable spring preload, this is your first stop. Adjusting the preload changes the initial tension on the spring, which affects your vehicle's ride height and can help you achieve the desired stance. A common starting point is to set the rider sag – the amount the suspension compresses under your weight plus any gear – to around 20-30% of the total shock travel. This provides a good balance of comfort and control. If your shocks also feature compression and rebound adjusters (like LSC or DSC), these allow you to fine-tune how the suspension behaves. Low-speed compression (LSC) affects how the shock reacts to slower suspension movements, like body roll in corners or weight transfer when accelerating or braking. Increasing LSC can reduce body roll and provide a more planted feel. High-speed compression (HSC), often found on higher-end models, controls how the shock reacts to quick impacts, like hitting bumps or rocks. Adjusting this can prevent bottoming out and improve comfort over rough terrain. Rebound damping controls how quickly the shock extends after being compressed. Too fast, and the suspension can become unsettled and bouncy; too slow, and it might not have time to extend fully before hitting the next bump. Experimenting with these adjustments is key. Start with the manufacturer's recommended settings and make small changes, testing the difference after each adjustment. Take notes on what works best for your riding style and the terrain you frequent. Proper adjustment is what truly unlocks the potential of your Fox shocks and ensures you're getting the most out of your investment. Don't be afraid to experiment – that's what the adjustability is there for! Remember, if you're not comfortable with suspension work, it's always best to have a professional install and set up your new shocks.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

To keep your 2017 Polaris General Fox shocks performing at their peak for years to come, a little bit of regular maintenance goes a long way, guys. Think of it like taking care of any other high-performance component on your UTV; neglecting it means you won't get the best out of it, and it might not last as long as it should. The most crucial aspect of Fox shock maintenance is keeping them clean. After every muddy or dusty ride, give your shocks a good rinse with a hose. Pay attention to the shock body, the shaft, and especially the seals. Dirt and grit can work their way into the seals over time, causing premature wear and potential leaks. If you notice any caked-on mud, use a soft brush or a rag to gently clean it off – avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could scratch the shaft or damage the seals. Another key area is checking the shaft condition. Inspect the shock shaft for any nicks, scratches, or dents. Even minor damage can compromise the seal and lead to leaks. If you find any significant damage, it's often best to have the shock serviced or rebuilt by a professional. For shocks equipped with external reservoirs, periodically check the hose and fitting connections to ensure they are tight and free from leaks. You might also want to periodically check the nitrogen pressure in the shocks. Over time, nitrogen can slowly seep out, leading to a decrease in damping performance. Fox recommends specific pressure levels for their shocks, and you can check and adjust this pressure using specialized equipment. Many riders opt to have their shocks serviced by a professional at regular intervals, especially if they ride in harsh conditions. This service typically involves disassembling the shock, cleaning all the internal components, replacing seals and O-rings, flushing the old oil, and refilling with fresh, high-quality shock oil. They'll also recharge the nitrogen. The recommended service interval can vary depending on the shock model and how hard you ride, but a general guideline might be every 100-200 hours of use or annually. Don't wait for a problem to arise; proactive maintenance is the best approach. By keeping your Fox shocks clean, inspecting them regularly, and getting them serviced when needed, you'll ensure they continue to provide that plush, controlled ride you paid for, keeping your 2017 Polaris General handling like a dream.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Polaris General Experience

So there you have it, folks! When it comes to upgrading your 2017 Polaris General, fitting it with Fox shocks is one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. We've covered why they're superior to stock, the tangible benefits like enhanced comfort and control, and the different models you might consider. We also touched on getting them installed correctly and, crucially, how to maintain them so they keep performing their best. Investing in Fox shocks isn't just about buying a part; it's about investing in a significantly better off-road experience. You'll notice the difference on the first ride – smoother over bumps, more planted in corners, and less fatigue at the end of the day. It’s about unlocking the full potential of your Polaris General and being able to tackle terrain with more confidence and enjoyment. Whether you opt for the robust Performance Series or the ultimate control of the Factory Series, you're choosing a brand synonymous with quality and performance in the powersports world. So, if you're ready to stop wishing for a better ride and start experiencing one, upgrading your 2017 Polaris General with Fox shocks should be at the top of your list. Happy trails, guys!