I took the advise of a shock rebuilder and changed the oil in my IQ shocks after the first season (recommended regardless of make/model). I'm glad I did the rears, the fronts were fine after 1,500 miles.

The rear FOX PS5 shock oil was cooked with plenty of aluminum grey matter floating in it. I can see that not changing the rear shock oil annually would cause serious premature wear.

The center shock oil was not only cooked but full of nitrogen bubbles. After closer investigation I found that the RydeFX shock cylinder wall had a manufacturing flaw allowing oil and gas to mix. Polaris warrantied the entire shock without hesitation.

NOTE - Have a good shock rebuilder do the oil change ($20-30 each). I invested in some tools to do my own just because I like to tinker, but it will take years to recooperate the investment.

TTT
Since its tiime to get that sled ready.

The gray matter you are finding comes from the breaking in of the shock and a combination of factors, metal, water and carbonizing of oil (heat and water). Alot of shocks have a problem with nitrogen leaking into the oil, some from lack of cleanliness on assy and parts defects, some from hard bottoming out. I like to add 20 to 30 lbs of nitrogen to compensate for various issues. OEM oils suck except for Ryde FX.

being a rebuilder id personalyl say the you should chagne your oil at about 500 miles. the first rebuild is the most important. the first 500 miles they really get broken in. rebuild here to get rid of all the extra residue will help elongate the time between rebuilds in the future and will prevent damage from happening also.