Elka Suspension MOTORCYCLE SERIES - Manual (Page 13)

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> A D J U S T M E N T S 11
E) Adjusting the shock
A preload adjustment ring is located under the head of the shock (see page 8 for details). This
ring is used to increase or decrease the initial tension on the spring.
INCREASING THE PRELOAD
To increase the preload on your spring, you need to turn the preload ring clockwise.
• First, you might need to remove the seat to access the preload ring
• Then loosen the set-screw on the preload ring using the provided 3mm Allen key.
• Finally, turn the preload ring clockwise using the provided preload tool.
• When the adjustment is complete, tighten back the set-screw to lock the preload ring.
Increasing the preload will rise the vehicle and increase frame clearance. This will result in a
more responsive ride. Be careful not to apply too much preload. This can cause “coil binding”,
which is when the coils of the spring rub against each other under compression. This can
damage the spring, the shock and can be dangerous for the rider.
REDUCING THE PRELOAD
To reduce the preload on your spring, you need to turn the preload ring counterclockwise.
• First, you will need to remove the seat to access the preload ring.
• Then loosen the set-screw on the preload ring using the provided 3mm Allen key.
• Finally, turn the preload ring counterclockwise using the provided preload tool.
• When the adjustment is complete, tighten back the set-screw to lock the preload ring.
Reducing the preload will lower the vehicle and decrease frame clearance. This will result in a
smoother ride but the bike might come in contact with the ground more often. The preload
should always be enough to keep the spring strongly in place.
E.4 PRELOAD ADJUSTMENT
WARNING
• If more than 15 mm of preload is needed to achieve proper sag, it is
recommended to change to a higher spring rate.
- If sag is not enough without any preload applied to the spring, it is
recommended to change to a lighter spring rate.
Be careful when adjusting the preload after the engine has been running.
The exhaust pipe and shock body can be hot and may cause severe injuries.
Be careful and use gloves or proper protection equipment.