Elka Suspension SHOCK ABSORBERS - Manual (Page 6)

FRONT REAR
6
ELKA SUSPENSION INC. Phone: (450) 655-4855 or 1 800 557-0552 www.elkasuspension.com
ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES
RIDE HEIGHT - SPORTS & RACING ATV
MEASURING THE RIDE HEIGHT (GROUND CLEARANCE)
The ride height, or frame clearance, is the distance between the ground and the chassis with the rider
sitting on the vehicle in riding position. The ride height is measured in inches, the front and rear
measurements being taken according to the following procedures:
HOW TO ADJUST THE RIDE HEIGHT
A preload adjustment ring is located under the head of the shock absorber. This ring is used to
increase or decrease the tension in the springs as well as for adjusting the ride height of the vehicle
(frame or ground clearance). See p.10 for detailed instructions on how to use the preload adjustment.
While the ride height of the vehicle is a matter of vehicle model and driver preference, the front and
rear heights need to be in balance.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO ADJUST THE RIDE HEIGHT
Whatever ride height setting you choose, the height must be similar at the front and rear of the
vehicle, with the front slightly higher (from 1/4 to 3/4 inch maximum).
A higher ride height will provide more ground clearance with less chances to bottom out but will make
the suspension stiffer.
A lower ride height will reduce the ground clearance and make the suspension softer, but will make
the vehicle more prone to bottoming out.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The size of the tires used can affect the ride height. When using tires that are
higher or lower than the stock tires, you might need to adjust the ride height accordingly.
Have the rider sit on the bike in a racing position. Then have the rider bounce on the pegs
a few times to compress the suspension then let it settle.
WITH THE RIDER SITTING ON THE VEHICLE IN RIDING POSITION:
Front Ride Height Measurement = the vertical
distance from the ground to the chassis
in front of the engine mounts.
Rear Ride Height Measurement = the vertical
distance from the ground to the chassis,
right behind the foot pegs.