Editor’s note: This article was originally published in March 2014 when JRi Shocks introduced the ECX 3 replacement shock for the Polaris RZR XP 1000 and RZR XP 4 1000. It has been updated for clarity and historical context. The ECX 3 is not currently listed in JRi’s online catalog, so riders should contact the manufacturer directly regarding service, parts or availability.
JRi Shocks introduced the ECX 3 in 2014 as a high-performance replacement shock for the original Polaris RZR XP 1000 and four-seat RZR XP 4 1000. The direct-fit coilover was designed to provide substantially more damping adjustment than the factory Walker Evans shocks.
The ECX 3 offered separate high-speed compression, low-speed compression and rebound adjustments. That allowed a knowledgeable owner or suspension tuner to control how the shock responded to different types of suspension movement without replacing the complete internal valving package.
Three-Way Damping Adjustment
Low-speed compression adjustment controls damping during relatively slow shock-shaft movement, including body roll, weight transfer, braking and rolling terrain. High-speed compression affects the shock’s response to faster shaft movement caused by square edges, rocks, holes and hard landings. Rebound adjustment controls how quickly the suspension extends after being compressed.
Having all three adjustments gave riders a broad tuning range, but the settings still needed to work together. Excessive compression damping could produce a harsh ride, while too much rebound damping could prevent the suspension from recovering between repeated bumps. Our guide to UTV springs versus shock valving explains how damping changes differ from spring-rate and preload adjustments.
JRi ECX 3 Features
JRi listed the following features for the ECX 3 when it was introduced:
- Independent high-speed compression adjustment
- Independent low-speed compression adjustment
- Adjustable rebound damping
- 2.5-inch shock body
- 2.5-inch piggyback reservoir
- Heavy-duty 7/8-inch shaft for the RZR XP 1000 application
- Serviceable and rebuildable construction
- Internal piston technology intended to reduce shock fade
- Individual dynamometer testing
- Serialized components for production traceability
- One-year limited warranty when originally sold
The large shock body and reservoir increased oil capacity compared with smaller designs. More oil can help manage heat during sustained use, while the piggyback reservoir separates the pressurized nitrogen from the shock oil through an internal floating piston.
Original Applications and Pricing
JRi originally listed the ECX 3 for the two-seat RZR XP 1000 and four-seat RZR XP 4 1000 at $1,000. That was period pricing announced in 2014 and should not be interpreted as current pricing or availability.
Additional applications announced at the time included:
- Can-Am Commander
- Can-Am Maverick
- Can-Am Maverick MAX
- Arctic Cat Wildcat two- and four-seat models
- Polaris RZR XP 900
- Polaris RZR XP 4 900
Those applications were originally listed at $750. Buyers considering used ECX 3 shocks should confirm the exact part number, vehicle fitment, spring rate, shaft condition and availability of rebuild components before purchasing. Two- and four-seat RZR models may require different spring rates and valving because of their substantially different weight and wheelbase.
Current JRi Shock Information
Although this specific UTV application is no longer shown in JRi’s current online catalog, the company continues to manufacture serviceable performance shocks for several motorsports and off-road markets. Visit JRi Shocks for current product, service and contact information.
The ECX 3 remains an interesting example of how quickly the suspension aftermarket responded to the original XP 1000. Its triple-adjustable design gave owners another option for tuning the platform that helped define the next generation in the history of the Polaris RZR.
