1985 ATC 250R front shocks vs 1986 ATC 250R front shocks

[Marty]

What front shocks were better on the ATC the 85 or the 86 and why are they better?

[Flyingw]

The 86 shocks had better springs in them.

[Swinger]

The 85 had a 2 piece spring set up, with the short spring on the top. I heard of guys just taking that short spring out to drop the front end. The 86 had a single spring set up. I would imagine the 86 was a better design but the 85 makes it easier to do a drop.

[pantera1975]

The 86 is better. I for fun tried both springs in my 86 with 10 wt oil. Both were in spec when I measured them. I then put in Progressive suspension springs. $80 well worth the money. I used 12.5 wt oil with them and thought it was too stiff. 10wt is good and now I used 5 wt.