Fireball Long Travel YXZ: Ultimate Suspension Upgrade Guide

Travel
June 17, 2025

For Yamaha YXZ1000R owners, performance and precision are non-negotiable. Built for speed and engineered for agility, the YXZ is a serious machine for serious riders. But even this high-performance UTV has its limits—especially when it comes to suspension travel in rugged terrain like dunes, rocky hills, and deep desert whoops. That’s where the fireball long travel YXZ kit comes in, redefining what’s possible for Yamaha’s flagship side-by-side.

If you’re looking to transform your ride into a dune-devouring, desert-dominating machine, this suspension upgrade is one of the most impactful modifications you can make. Built by Fireball Racing—a name trusted by competitive racers and off-road enthusiasts alike—the kit doesn’t just improve travel. It elevates ride stability, cornering control, and overall off-road performance without compromising reliability.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down what makes the fireball long travel YXZ kit so effective, how it compares to other suspension options, and why it’s a top choice for riders seeking maximum articulation, improved ground clearance, and a smoother ride in even the roughest terrain.

Whether you’re racing through sand dunes or navigating unforgiving backcountry trails, upgrading your suspension could be the difference between dominating the terrain—or being dominated by it. And if you choose to go the Fireball route, you’re investing in a performance legacy.

What Is the Fireball Long Travel YXZ Kit?

The fireball long travel YXZ kit is a premium suspension upgrade specifically engineered for the Yamaha YXZ1000R platform. Designed and manufactured by Fireball Racing—a trusted brand known for performance UTV parts—this kit significantly enhances the machine’s wheel travel, articulation, and off-road capabilities.

Unlike factory setups that come with limited suspension stroke and narrower track width, Fireball’s long travel system gives your YXZ the ability to soak up larger impacts, maintain traction on uneven terrain, and ride smoother through aggressive trail conditions.

Core Components of the Fireball Long Travel Kit

A complete fireball long travel YXZ kit typically includes:

Chromoly Upper and Lower A-Arms (front and rear)
Extended Axles or CVs compatible with OEM or aftermarket setups
High-Strength Heim Joints and Ball Joints
Tie Rod Extensions or custom rack-and-pinion solutions
Brake Line Extensions
Mounting Hardware
Optional Shock Packages (Elka, King, Fox)

Each arm is hand-welded from chromoly steel for maximum strength and longevity, and the design geometry is dialed in to reduce bump steer and camber change during travel.

Suspension Travel & Width Gains

One of the biggest selling points of the fireball long travel YXZ is how much more wheel travel it delivers:

Front Travel: Increases up to +4–6 inches over stock
Rear Travel: Comparable gains, resulting in a balanced feel
Wider Stance: Adds +6–8 inches overall width, improving high-speed cornering stability

This added travel allows your shocks to absorb impacts more efficiently, while the widened stance keeps the machine planted and composed on off-camber terrain.

Compatibility and Model Fit

Fireball Racing ensures that their long travel kits are bolt-on compatible with the YXZ1000R, including base and SS (Sport Shift) trims. The kit works with:

Stock hubs and knuckles
OEM differential and drivetrain
Factory or upgraded shocks (depending on length)

It’s an ideal upgrade for riders who want more out of their YXZ without the hassle of full drivetrain replacements.

Design That Prioritizes Strength and Reliability

When building a kit for aggressive riding, strength matters. Fireball Racing builds their long travel kits with:

Fully TIG-welded 4130 chromoly steel
Greaseable joints for long-term maintenance
Precision jig fixtures to ensure perfect fitment
Optional powder coating for custom color and corrosion protection

All these features combine to create a package that’s ready for high-speed desert runs, dune jumps, trail carving, and everything in between.

Whether you’re seeking race-ready performance or simply a smoother, more controlled ride through gnarly terrain, the fireball long travel YXZ kit delivers proven results with rugged build quality and professional-grade engineering.

Key Performance Benefits of the Fireball Long Travel YXZ Kit

Upgrading to the fireball long travel YXZ kit isn’t just a cosmetic decision—it’s a functional leap forward that delivers transformative results on every type of off-road terrain. From high-speed desert runs to rock-crawling and technical trail riding, Fireball’s long travel system brings a host of serious performance benefits to Yamaha’s YXZ1000R.

Here’s how this upgrade elevates your ride:

1. Dramatically Increased Suspension Travel

The core advantage of the fireball long travel YXZ is enhanced suspension articulation. Compared to the stock setup, the kit provides:

Up to +6 inches of additional travel front and rear
Increased vertical wheel movement to absorb bigger hits
A smoother ride across whoops, washouts, and ledges

More travel means the suspension can flex farther before bottoming out—giving you more control, comfort, and speed in challenging terrain.

2. Improved Handling and Cornering Stability

With a wider track and optimized A-arm geometry, the Fireball kit reduces body roll and increases traction:

+6–8 inches in total stance width
Lower center of gravity without sacrificing ground clearance
Consistent tire contact for predictable handling on uneven surfaces

The result? You can corner harder and faster with more confidence, even on slick or shifting ground like sand or shale.

3. Better Shock Performance

The fireball long travel YXZ kit pairs perfectly with aftermarket shocks (Elka, Fox, King, etc.). More travel = more effective damping. Benefits include:

Improved rebound control over washboards and chatter
Reduced shock fade on long rides
Less driver fatigue due to smoother ride dynamics

It lets your shocks do what they were made to do—work over a larger, more effective range of motion.

4. Superior Impact Absorption

When tackling gnarly trails or desert jumps, your suspension takes a beating. Fireball’s robust construction allows the kit to:

Absorb hard landings without transferring shock to the frame
Maintain alignment even under abuse
Prevent bottoming out and frame slap

This added durability isn’t just for racers—casual trail riders also benefit from the confidence of knowing their suspension won’t fold under pressure.

5. Optimized for Extreme Terrain

Whether it’s the sand dunes of Glamis, rock gardens in Moab, or muddy backcountry tracks, the fireball long travel YXZ setup is purpose-built for:

Dune carving with superior stability
Trail crawling with max articulation
Desert blasting with less bounce and more control

In each environment, the extended arms and suspension stroke help maintain tire contact, better traction, and smoother handling.

6. Increased Ground Clearance and Ride Comfort

By allowing more wheel travel and vertical lift, the kit gives your YXZ improved clearance without sacrificing geometry. This allows for:

Fewer hang-ups on rocks or logs
Smoother transitions across uneven terrain
Comfortable seating position even during aggressive rides

It’s a comfort and capability upgrade in one package.

Installing the fireball long travel YXZ kit is more than a mod—it’s a reengineering of your UTV’s entire behavior. From suspension dynamics to handling precision, this upgrade opens the door to more aggressive, confident, and enjoyable riding across all types of terrain.

Installation Overview: Setting Up Your Fireball Long Travel YXZ

Upgrading your Yamaha YXZ with the fireball long travel YXZ kit is a major transformation—but one that’s well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a weekend warrior, knowing what’s involved in the installation process will help you prepare, plan, and execute with confidence.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to install the fireball long travel YXZ kit yourself or take it to a professional shop. Here’s a breakdown of both options:

DIY Installation

Pros: Cost-effective, hands-on knowledge of your rig, flexible timing
Cons: Time-consuming, requires mechanical experience, may need specialty tools
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced (suspension and drivetrain experience recommended)

Professional Installation

Pros: Precision setup, alignment expertise, reduced install time
Cons: Labor costs, scheduling wait times
Best For: Riders who prefer turnkey reliability or lack technical background

Either way, it’s important to understand what’s included in the process to avoid surprises.

Tools and Equipment Needed

To install the fireball long travel YXZ, you’ll need:

Full socket and wrench sets (metric)
Torque wrench
Jack and jack stands or lift
Bearing press or large C-clamp
Snap ring pliers
Grease gun
Brake line tools
Thread locker (blue)
Alignment tools or professional service afterward

Some installs also require minor trimming or custom mounting of brake lines, depending on your model year and brake setup.

Installation Steps Overview

Disassemble Stock Suspension
- Remove A-arms, axles, tie rods, shocks, and hubs
- Disconnect brake lines and ABS sensors (if applicable)
Install Extended A-Arms
- Bolt in chromoly arms with Fireball’s high-strength hardware
- Ensure correct orientation (uppers vs. lowers)
Install Axles & Driveline Components
- Replace OEM axles with extended versions
- Ensure CV boots are greased and not overextended
Mount Shocks & Brake Lines
- Use shock spacers if provided
- Route and secure extended brake lines to prevent rubbing
Reassemble and Torque
- Reattach hubs, wheels, and brake components
- Use thread locker and torque everything to spec
Alignment and Test Ride
- Professional alignment is highly recommended
- Do a low-speed test ride to check for clearance and articulation

Post-Install Adjustments

After installing your fireball long travel YXZ kit:

Check torque after the first 10–15 miles
Re-grease pivots and heims regularly
Inspect clearance and bump steer under flex
Dial in shocks for compression/rebound balance

These final tweaks are essential to get the most performance and lifespan from your long travel system.

The fireball long travel YXZ isn’t just plug-and-play—it’s precision engineering that requires careful setup. But once it’s installed and dialed in, your YXZ will ride like a completely new machine built to conquer the toughest terrain.

Fireball Racing vs Other Long Travel Kits

When choosing a suspension upgrade for your Yamaha YXZ, the market offers a variety of long travel options. From brands like Lone Star Racing and Cognito Motorsports to smaller boutique builders, each has its merits—but Fireball Racing’s long travel YXZ kit consistently stands out for a reason. Let’s compare Fireball against the competition to see why it’s become a top choice among off-road enthusiasts and racers.

Performance Comparison Table

Feature	Fireball Racing	Lone Star Racing	Cognito Motorsports
Suspension Travel Increase	Up to 6”	Up to 4–5”	Up to 5”
Material	4130 Chromoly	4130 Chromoly	MIG-welded steel
Width Gain	~6–8” total	~5–6” total	~5–7” total
Shock Compatibility	Elka, Fox, King	Fox, Walker Evans	Fox, Elka
Price Range	Mid-high ($3,500–$5,000)	High ($4,000–$6,000)	High ($4,000+)
Warranty	Limited Lifetime	1 Year	Limited Warranty
Ease of Installation	Bolt-on, moderate tools	Moderate install	Moderate install

Build Quality and Materials

The fireball long travel YXZ kit is constructed using precision TIG-welded 4130 chromoly—a high-strength, lightweight alloy ideal for off-road abuse. Unlike some kits that may mix materials or rely on mild steel, Fireball ensures consistency across the entire system, reducing weak points and extending longevity.

Competitors like Cognito may offer similar travel gains, but often use MIG-welded steel that can be heavier and less refined in terms of flex and fatigue resistance. Fireball’s attention to weld quality, joint tolerances, and alignment make it a premium option for aggressive riders.

Engineering & Geometry

Fireball Racing’s engineering prioritizes real-world results. Their kits feature optimized A-arm geometry that reduces bump steer and maintains ideal camber throughout the suspension cycle. This translates to:

Predictable cornering
Smooth shock action
Stable landings on jumps

Other kits may require extensive shock tuning or ride height adjustments to achieve the same result. With the fireball long travel YXZ, much of this work is already dialed in from the start.

Customizability and Support

Fireball Racing offers several custom options, such as:

Powder coat colors to match your build
Multiple shock pairings
Fitment tweaks for custom axles or drivetrains

Their customer support team is also known for fast response times, helping you with any questions about install, setup, or tuning. In contrast, some larger companies may push you through general tech lines or lack detailed installation advice.

Why Riders Choose Fireball

From the dunes of Glamis to Baja race trails, Fireball kits are widely used in both recreational and competitive environments. Riders consistently choose the fireball long travel YXZ because it offers:

Race-proven durability
A well-balanced increase in travel and control
Top-tier materials without excessive complexity
Better value relative to high-end alternatives

When you weigh the features, performance, and long-term value, the fireball long travel YXZ kit clearly holds its own—and often surpasses—other premium kits on the market. It’s an investment in both capability and confidence.

Real-World User Reviews: What Riders Say About the Fireball Long Travel YXZ

When it comes to high-performance UTV modifications, real-world feedback often tells a more honest story than marketing materials. The fireball long travel YXZ kit has been battle-tested by weekend warriors, sand dune thrill-seekers, and off-road racers alike—and the reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction across all experience levels.

Here’s what riders are saying:

1. Smoother Ride Over Whoops and Chatter

“I ride mostly in the dunes, and the difference with the fireball long travel YXZ is night and day. It soaks up whoops like a trophy truck. Zero bottoming out, even when we hit stuff at speed.”
— Chris J., Arizona Dune Rider

The added suspension travel and geometry improvements have led many riders to report a significantly smoother and more controlled ride, especially over rapid washboard sections and deep whoops where stock suspensions tend to struggle.

2. High-Quality Build and Fitment

“Everything in the kit lined up perfectly. You can tell Fireball didn’t cut corners. The welds are clean, and the chromoly arms feel solid.”
— Jake L., Nevada Trail Enthusiast

The build quality of the fireball long travel YXZ kit consistently gets high marks. Users appreciate the TIG-welded chromoly construction and the fact that the parts fit right out of the box, minimizing modification or frustration during installation.

3. Confidence in Aggressive Terrain

“Used to hesitate before sending my YXZ off a ledge. Not anymore. The Fireball kit gave me the confidence to push harder, and the UTV responds like a whole new machine.”
— Amanda K., Baja Prep Racer

Increased control during landings and cornering has led many users to report a newfound sense of trust in their machine. This confidence translates into better driving performance and more fun behind the wheel.

4. Excellent Customer Service

“I had questions about shock compatibility before ordering. Fireball’s team got back to me quickly with all the answers. Solid support.”
— Tom R., DIY Installer

Whether it’s questions about installation or custom configuration, Fireball Racing’s customer service frequently receives praise for being knowledgeable, responsive, and easy to work with—a major plus for riders doing their own installs.

5. Long-Term Reliability

“Been running the fireball long travel YXZ for over a year now in mixed conditions—no issues, no weird noises, everything’s still tight.”
— Brian M., Rocky Mountain Rider

The kit’s long-term durability also earns rider approval. Users have reported thousands of miles without failures, thanks to its reinforced materials, serviceable joints, and smart design that holds alignment over time.

Minor Criticisms

No kit is perfect, and a few users have noted:

The install can be time-consuming without a lift or helper
Brake line extensions might need creative routing depending on YXZ year
Initial shock setup may take tuning for optimal ride

However, these are considered minor inconveniences compared to the overall improvement in performance and ride quality.

Final Verdict from Users

Across multiple forums, Facebook groups, and review platforms, the consensus is clear: the fireball long travel YXZ kit is one of the most trusted and proven suspension upgrades available. Riders repeatedly praise its:

Rugged construction
Noticeable performance gains
Fair price-to-value ratio
Long-term reliability on tough terrain

Maintenance Tips and Best Practices for the Fireball Long Travel YXZ

Installing the fireball long travel YXZ kit is a powerful upgrade—but like any performance part, it requires ongoing attention to maintain peak functionality. Proper care not only preserves ride quality and safety but also protects your investment for years of aggressive riding.

Here’s how to maintain your Fireball long travel suspension system like a pro:

1. Clean After Every Ride

Mud, dust, and sand can accelerate wear on suspension parts. After each ride:

Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water
Focus on joints, heims, CV boots, and shock mounts
Avoid pressure washing close to seals or bearings

Use a silicone-based spray to protect metal and prevent rust, especially if riding in wet or salty environments.

2. Regularly Inspect Suspension Joints

The fireball long travel YXZ kit includes high-quality heims and pivot points that need routine checks. Every 2–3 rides:

Check heims for looseness or excessive play
Look for torn dust boots or grease leaks
Inspect welds for stress cracks or damage

If anything feels loose or misaligned, tighten and re-torque per Fireball’s specs.

3. Lubricate Pivot Points and Heims

Proper lubrication extends the life of your long travel kit. Every 3–5 rides (or after a muddy session):

Use a grease gun on all zerk fittings
Apply anti-seize to bolts if removing parts
Use waterproof grease to protect against washout

Lubed heims perform smoother, reduce creaking, and prevent premature wear.

4. Retorque After First 15–25 Miles

Once your fireball long travel YXZ kit is installed:

Go for a light ride to let parts settle
Bring it back and retorque all bolts (A-arms, shock mounts, hubs, etc.)
Re-check camber and toe alignment after settling

Failing to retorque can lead to long-term issues like uneven tire wear or misaligned geometry.

5. Monitor Axles and CV Boots

With more suspension travel, CV joints experience more movement:

Check for cracked or torn CV boots
Make sure CV clamps are tight
Listen for clicking sounds at full articulation—this could indicate axle wear or binding

Replacing a CV boot early can save you from full axle replacement later.

6. Check Ride Height and Shock Settings

Over time, your shocks may settle or your terrain may change:

Check ride height from skid plate to ground (Fireball recommends spec ranges)
Adjust preload or damping to match your riding style (desert vs. trail)
Use a zip-tie method on shock shafts to see how much travel you’re using

Dialing in your shocks ensures you get the full benefit of your fireball long travel YXZ kit.

7. Service Intervals for Heavy Riders

If you ride frequently, competitively, or in extreme terrain:

Full inspection every 30–40 hours of riding
Shock service (oil and seals) every 50–75 hours
Replace heims or bushings yearly or when play develops

For casual riders, service intervals can be more forgiving—but regular attention always pays off.

Pro Tip: Keep a Maintenance Log

Document:

Mileage or hours since last inspection
Greasing dates
Bolt torque logs
Any replacement parts (axles, joints, heims)

This habit helps with resale value and troubleshooting down the line.

The fireball long travel YXZ system is engineered to endure—but like all high-performance parts, it rewards riders who take care of it. Following these best practices ensures your suspension stays tight, smooth, and ready for whatever terrain you throw at it.

Where to Buy & Pricing Breakdown for the Fireball Long Travel YXZ

If you’re ready to upgrade your Yamaha YXZ to the next level, finding the right vendor for your fireball long travel YXZ kit is key. From direct manufacturer orders to authorized resellers and bundled packages, here’s how and where you can get the best deal—and what kind of pricing to expect.

Direct from Fireball Racing

The best place to start is Fireball Racing’s official website. Buying direct has several advantages:

Guaranteed authenticity
Access to latest product versions
Custom options (color, shock compatibility, etc.)
Technical support and warranty service

Website: fireballracing.com
Average Kit Cost: $3,499 – $5,000 USD
Included:

Extended upper/lower A-arms (front and rear)
Chromoly tie rods and hardware
Shock mounts or spacers (depending on shock type)
Extended brake lines
Axle options (custom or compatible recommendations)

Fireball Racing also offers occasional discount codes or bundled promotions with shocks and other components.

Authorized Off-Road Retailers

You can also purchase the fireball long travel YXZ kit from reputable off-road distributors:

UTV Source
SideBySideStuff
Fueled UTV
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC (may stock select parts or axles)

These platforms sometimes offer financing, user reviews, and shipping deals. However, customization options (such as powder coat colors) may be more limited.

What’s NOT Included (But Often Needed)

Keep in mind that the following are typically not included in the base price but may be necessary for full installation:

Component	Estimated Cost
Long-travel Axles	$800–$1,200
Performance Shocks (Elka, Fox, King)	$2,000–$3,000
Alignment and Setup	$150–$300 (shop labor)
Custom Brake Lines	$100–$200

Some riders opt for bundled kits (Fireball + Elka, for example), which can lower the total cost compared to piecing everything together.

Shipping & Lead Time

Most fireball long travel YXZ kits are made to order:

Build Time: 2–4 weeks (average)
Shipping: ~$100–$250 depending on location
International Shipping: Available but varies by country—customs and VAT may apply

Fireball Racing ships from the U.S., so domestic buyers typically receive their kits faster and with more direct support.

Warranty & Return Policies

Limited Lifetime Warranty on A-arms (against workmanship or structural failure)
30-Day Return Window, subject to restocking fees if opened or installed
Customer Support: Email and phone support available for install guidance and fitment checks

Having direct access to Fireball’s support team is one of the major advantages of purchasing through the manufacturer or an authorized dealer.

Rider Tip: Watch for Group Buys

UTV communities on Facebook and forums like YXZTalk sometimes organize group buys where Fireball offers discounts (5–15%) if enough riders order together. Great way to save money and connect with fellow YXZ owners.

The fireball long travel YXZ kit is a premium upgrade with pricing that reflects its quality—but the performance, durability, and rider support make it a strong investment for serious off-roaders.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts: Why the Fireball Long Travel YXZ Is Worth It

Upgrading to a long travel suspension system isn’t just about a wider stance—it’s about completely transforming how your Yamaha YXZ handles the terrain. And when it comes to premium performance, unmatched strength, and proven results, the fireball long travel YXZ kit rises to the top.

Whether you’re bombing dunes, crawling through rocky trails, or charging across desert flats, this kit offers:

Substantial travel gains for better bump absorption
Race-quality build materials that can take a beating
Precision-engineered geometry that improves handling and reduces fatigue
Excellent customer support and customization options

Across user reviews, performance comparisons, and durability benchmarks, the fireball long travel YXZ consistently proves its value—not just as a suspension kit, but as a complete performance enhancement package.

Who Should Buy It?

Off-roaders seeking confidence at high speeds and through technical terrain
Racers looking for a competitive edge in ride quality and cornering
Riders who demand long-term reliability and easy maintenance
YXZ owners who want more from their machine without overcomplicating the build

Who Shouldn’t?

Budget-focused riders who don’t need more than a stock-width setup
Occasional users who don’t ride aggressively or on rough terrain
Those without the means or tools for installation and maintenance

Final Word

In the world of UTV upgrades, few names carry the same trust and performance pedigree as Fireball Racing. The fireball long travel YXZ kit is more than just an arm and shock extension—it’s an investment in better control, better safety, and a much more enjoyable ride experience.

If you want your Yamaha YXZ to live up to its full potential, this kit is the suspension solution that delivers—time and time again.

fireball long travel yxz