Stage 1 ATV lift kits that add 2-3 inches of lift are not very expensive, less than $200, and aren't very difficult to install.  Once you cross the 3" threshold the price skyrockets ($1000's range).  The main reason for adding the two inches is because it will allow you to add oversize tires without rubbing the fenders when turning.  Adding large tires also increases your clearance, so you can end up with five or more inches of height increase.

The reason for the big difference in costs for lifts over 3" is because your wheel base begins to narrow as you lift, and the angle of the CV joints becomes to great.  These larger lifts require changing a lot of additional stock components to compensate for this.

There is currently no equivalent of a body lift like you can find for trucks.  Body lifts only raise the body without affecting ground clearance.

The Stage 1 (2"-3") lift kits, are considered "Suspension Lifts", and work by some combination of:

• Raising the shock/spring mount points
• "Rolling" the shock/spring mount points
• Adding a spacer below or above the springs
• Replacing the stock springs and/or shocks (has the added benefit of giving you heavier duty suspension)

Overview of Installation

Each kit will come with installation instructions, and these should be followed when actually installing the kit.  Here is a basic overview of the installation process to help you understand what will be involved before you purchase a lift kit:

• Jack up and support front end
• Remove front tires
• May need to remove some brake components
• Remove one mount bolt from each front shock
• Install lift kit brackets on both shock mount points
• Remount shock to the new mount point
• Installtires and any other components removed
• Repeat for rear shock(s)

Available Stage 1 Kits

STS Progressive Shocks ($137.34/single and $264.90/pair)
Progressive Shocks are made of heavier duty shocks and springs, and allow the ride height to be adjusted in small increments. They typically only allow a lift of about 1". They can be combined with other lift kits on some ATV models, but you better make sure before doing so. The 512 Series comes with an adjustable spring preload to accommodate different loads (i.e. mounting a plow or carrying a hay bale). Includes Shock “Sox” to help keep dirt and mud out of the spring and to keep the adjusters clean. It's usually most beneficial to add a progressive shock to ATVs that have a solid rear axle with only one rear shock. On these models, the stock shock and spring are usually poor quality and wear out quickly, and lifting the rear and extra inch on a solid axle machine typically isn't like it can be on independent suspension.

High Lifter Lift Kits ($79.99 - $179.99)
High Lifter is the pioneer in ATV Lift Kits, and has held the rank of most popular lift for quite a while now. Their products have been proven over time, and are usually the safest bet. The High Lifter 2" Lift Kit relocates the shock mounts to provide additional lift making room for larger tires and tightens suspension. Each Lift Kit part is precision cut and zinc plated for durability and reliability in any environment.

QuadBoss Lift Kits ($67.77 - $149.77)
QuadBoss lift kits are newer to the market and come at a lower cost than other brands. Some review have mentioned that these kits used thinner metal than expected, but they haven't had any problems and would recommend it.

Moose Lift Kits ($67.95 - $125.95)
Increases your ATV's clearance by 1.5" for better performance in rough conditions. Simple bolt on operation with clear instructions.Increased ground clearance and tire/fender clearance for less tire/fender rub. Made of milled aluminmum.

HighLifter Heavy Duty Springs ($41.29 - $141.29)
High Lifter Lift Springs are a set of higher capacity replacement springs which are components of the stock shock absorbers. The original equipment spring is not heavy duty and is often fatigued early by heavy loads or continuous service. OEM springs tend to fatigue rapidly…even with low mileage. The High Lifter Lift Springs were engineered to provide about 100 additional pounds of capacity (per set) over the new stock springs. They were also designed to make a significant difference in the performance of your ATV with as little affect as possible on the ride and handling of the machine. The Lift Springs add some stiffness to the ride and decrease roll, but have not been found harsh or uncomfortable by anyone who has ridden them. And here’s a big bonus! A complete set of the Lift Springs may be installed for substantially less than the cost of one replacement OEM shock. For those who ride at slower speeds, with big tires and heavier loads, the Lift Springs will be a welcome and economical upgrade. Depending on the make and model…and current modifications to the unit, the High Lifter Lift Springs have been known to add on full inch of suspension lift…however, it’s not guaranteed. The Lift Springs add some stiffness to the ride and decrease roll, but have not been found harsh or uncomfortable by anyone who has ridden them. One thing is for sure. If you are a hardcore mud rider…or you carry a load…your ATV could stand a heavier load capacity.