MOTORCYCLE SERIES OWNER's MANUAL - Elka Suspension Inc.

MOTORCYCLE SERIES 

OWNER’S MANUAL

Adjustments Logbook 

Use the following space to log the adjustments made to your shock absorber. 

DATE TRACK HIGH SPEED COMP LOW SPEED COMP REBOUND PRELOAD RIDE HEIGHT

INTRODUCTION 1 

Welcome to Elka Suspension ! 

Thank you for choosing Elka Suspension for 

your shock absorber needs. Elka Suspension 

is a leader in the design and manufacturing 

of high-performance shock absorbers. All our 

products are handcrafted from the highest 

quality materials available, specifically for 

each rider, accor-ding to his/her weight, 

bike geometry and type of riding. 

Our experienced team is able to advise and 

assist you to find the exact set-up to meet 

your personal needs. This owner’s manual is 

your complete guide to install, adjust and finetune 

your shocks for optimum suspension 

performance. It also offers important information 

about the maintenance of your shocks. Carefully 

read this manual before installing your shocks. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

A) Safety Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

B) Warranty & Return Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

C) Suspension Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

- C.1 Suspension Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

- C.2 Suspension Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

- C.3 Shock Absorber Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

D) Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

- D.1 Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

E) Adjustments & Fine-tuning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

- E.1 Suspension Definitions, Settings and Rules-of-Thumb. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 

- E.2 Checking and Setting Sag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

- E.3 Adjusting the Ride Height. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

- E.4 Preload Adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

- E.5 Compression Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 

- E.6 High- and Low-Speed Compression Adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 

- E.7 Rebound Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

F) Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-16 

H) Service Work Order Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 

1585-M, De Coulomb, Boucherville, Quebec, Canada J4B 8J7 

Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 

moto@elkasuspension.com www.elkasuspension.com

2 

>SAFETY 

WARNINGS 

A) Read First For Your Safety: 

WARNING ! 

Shock absorbers are an important part of your motorcycle, and 

this owner's manual explains how to install your suspension system 

properly. If you are uncomfortable installing your shock absorbers 

or are unsure of the method, have a qualified mechanic install 

them for you. Improperly installed shocks might cause serious 

harm to you and may severely damage your motorcycle. Never 

take any chances with your safety. 

CAUTION ! 

Before installing your shock absorbers, carefully read this owner's 

manual to learn the correct installation procedures and avoid the 

consequences of an incorrect installation. 

Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. Always wear appropriate 

protective equipment and follow your region’s regulations. 

Elka Suspension is constantly introducing new products and 

improving existing ones. For this reason, Elka Suspension 

reserves the rights to modify products and add accessories 

with no obligations to make such changes to earlier models. 

When your shock absorbers require an oil change or other internal 

maintenance, your Elka Suspension Service Centre is best qualified 

to provide the necessary service or repairs. 

Elka Suspension shock absorbers are manufactured exclusively for 

the motorcycle that they were ordered for. Switching units between 

different vehicles may not only decrease performance but might 

also cause damage to the motorcycle and seriously harm the rider. 

Always call Elka Suspension to verify compatibi-lity before 

switching units from one vehicle to another. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


Warranty & Return Policies 3 

B) Elka Suspension Warranty 

All Elka Suspension products are guaranteed 

against any manufacturing defects for a period 

of one (1) year from the purchase date. 

This warranty does not cover damages resulting 

from any of the following situations: 

- Abuse of the product 

- Racing accidents 

- Improper installation 

- Improper reservoir hose routing 

- Disassembly or modifications 

- Unauthorized oil changes 

- Damage occuring during transportation 

(the purchase of full insurance coverage for 

shipping is recommended) 

The shipping box should contain the following: 

- Shock absorber(s) and spring(s) 

- Owner’s Manual 

- Elka Preload tool (to adjust the preload ring) 

- One 3mm Allen key (for preload ring stopper) 

- Reservoir mounting assembly (for remote 

reservoir models) 

All Elka Suspension shock absorbers are ready 

for installation. Fine-tuning might be necessary. 

A copy of the original invoice is necessary for 

any claim or service shipment. 

Elka Suspension Inc. reserves the right to make 

the final decision in all matters pertaining to its 

warranty. 

WARNING ! 

Because Elka Suspension products are designed for use in racing 

and extreme driving conditions, Elka Suspension cannot guarantee 

any of its suspension products, other than from manufacturing 

defects, because we have no control over how our products are 

used after installation. In addition, the purchaser assumes full 

responsibility to the extent legally permitted for the risks of personal 

injury and/or damage to the purchaser's vehicle or to any 

third party that may be involved in an incident with the purchaser. 

RETURN PROCEDURES 

IMPORTANT: 

Always keep your invoice as proof of purchase and send a copy with all service or 

warranty returns. Always mention that your shocks are sent for warranty repair on all 

shipping papers. 

1) Call our service department at +1 (450) 655-4855 or 1-800-557-0552 (North America) to get 

an RGA Number. Our representative will assist you for further steps. 

2) Fill out the Service Work Order form on the last page of this manual. 

3) Carefully package your shock(s) to avoid damage during transportation. Include a copy of your 

invoice, a brief description of the problem and a return address for shipping and/or invoicing. 

Provide a phone number to reach you in case our technicians have questions about the problem. 

Place your completed Service Work Order form on top in your package. Ship your shock(s). 

4) Wait for a confirmation call that will let you know an approximate turnaround time after we 

receive your shocks. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


4 

>SUSPENSION 

BASICS 

C) Suspension Basics 

C.1 SUSPENSION TERMINOLOGY 

SUSPENSION 

Compression:The stage where the shock 

compresses under an impact. 

Emulsion:The oil in the shock has microscopic 

air bubbles in it. When the oil is heated from 

passing through the valving holes, the air 

expands and creates foam and air pockets, 

called emulsion. When a shock gets emulsion 

inside, it has a sticky feel (stiction), becomes 

very soft and can even lose all damping. 

Elka Suspension shocks go through a careful 

bleeding process to avoid emulsion. 

Frame Clearance:The space needed to avoid 

contact between the frame and the ground. 

High-Speed Compression:The damping circuit 

that controls the shock’s resistance against highvelocity 

impacts. 

Low-Speed Compression:The damping circuit 

that controls the shock’s resistance against 

low-velocity compression. 

Negative Travel:The difference between the 

height of the vehicle at rest with rider sitting 

on it and the height of the vehicle when the 

motorcycle is lifted without the wheels leaving 

the ground. This distance is a portion of the 

total suspension travel that is used to keep the 

wheels on the ground when the suspension 

extends. 

Preload:The force applied to the main springs by 

screwing in the preload ring to achieve proper 

sag, mesured in millimeters from shock head to 

preload collar. 

Rebound:The damping circuit that controls the 

shock’s resistance when returning to its initial 

state after being compressed by an impact. 

More rebound damping returns the shock slower 

but increases the chances of “packing”. Less 

preload damping returns the shock faster and 

provides a bouncy ride. 

Ride Height:The height of the vehicle when 

properly sagged with the rider seated. It can be 

adjusted to suit the rider’s personal preference. 

Sag:The portion of the shock’s travel used when 

the rider is seated. Proper sag ensures enough 

negative travel to keep the wheels on the ground 

and preserve traction. 

Static Sag:Same as the sag but without the rider 

on the vehicle. The static sag prevents topping 

out and provides a more confortable ride. 

Stroke:The total amount of travel allowed by the 

shock, mesured at the shock’s shaft. Not to be 

confused with the total travel of the vehicle. 

The same shock stroke can provide different 

wheel travel depending on the geometry of the 

suspension. 

Travel:The distance between the suspension fully 

compressed and fully extended. Can be mesured 

at the wheels (wheel travel) or at the shock shaft 

(stroke). 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


SUSPENSION BASICS 5 

C) Suspension Basics (continued) 

C.2 SUSPENSION TERMINOLOGY 

SHOCK PARTS 

Banjo Bolt:On remote reservoir models, the 

banjo-shaped bolt used to attach the hose to the 

reservoir and shock. The banjo shape allows for 

instal-lation around 360 degrees. Loosening or 

trying to move this bolt may cause oil leakage 

and a loss in pressure. 

Bridge:The metallic part that links the reservoir 

to the shock’s body on piggyback models. Bridge 

shape varies between different bike models to 

allow frame clearance. 

Bumper:The rubber (microcellular foam) part that 

prevents damaging the shock when bottoming. 

It’s an integral part of the suspension system as 

it controls the ending of the shock’s stroke. A 

low quality bumper will be harsh on the rider 

and will not allow full travel. 

Eyelets:The ends of the shock where the bolting 

shaft comes through, running on spherical 

bearings to allow movement but no torsional 

resistance. 

Fork:On some models, the lower mounting 

bracket that replaces the eyelet. 

Piggyback:A shock model with directly attached 

reservoir using a bridge or one-piece head. 

Remote Reservoir:A shock model with the 

reservoir attached to the head by a hose to 

allow remote location. 

Spring Cup (Spring Ring):The slotted ring that 

retains the springs in place. The slot allows the 

spring cup to slide out for easy spring removal. 

Spring Rate:The force required to compress the 

spring 1 inch from initial state. For example, a 

5.4 kg/mm spring will require a 5.4 kg force to 

compress 1 millimeter, a 10.8 kg force to compress 

2 millimeters, a 54 kg force to compress 

10 millimeters... 

To convert into pounds/inch, multiply by a factor 

of 56. Ex: 5.4 x 56 = 302,4 lbs/in. 

Set Screw:The tiny Allen screw that prevents 

the preload ring from loosening. Must be 

untightened prior to adjusting the preload ring 

and tightened back after the adjustment. 

Valving:A combination of holes, shims and 

checkballs that controls the hydraulic flow to 

create the damping effect. The valving’s 

“recipe” is the main factor for the feel of the 

suspension. 

Wheel Travel:The total amount of displacement 

allowed for the wheel from full extension to full 

compression. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


6 

>SUSPENSION 

BASICS 

C) Suspension Basics (continued) 

C.3 SHOCK ABSORBER COMPONENTS 

Low-Speed Compression 

Adjustment Knob (Gold) 

High-Speed Compression 

Adjustment Knob (Black) 

Nitrogen Purge Valve 

Shock Head 

Top Eyelet (behind the reservoir) 

Bridge 

Preload Ring 

Set Screw 

Reservoir 

(piggyback version shown, also 

available in remote version) 

Shock Body 

Banjo Bolt 

Spring 

Seal Head 

Hose 

Shaft 

Bumper 

Spring Clip 

Rebound Adjustment 

(regular shown, low-profile screw 

adjuster available) 

Ride height Adjuster 

Compression 

Adjustment Knob 

Fork or eyelet 

Remote 

Reservoir 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 7 

D) Installation 

D.1 MOUNTING 

Elka Suspension recommends the following method for installing your shock absorbers: 

1. Set your motorcycle on a bench or use a jack to take the vehicle's weight off the wheels. 

2. Remove the existing shock absorbers (refer to the vehicle’s owner manual if needed). 

3. Place the reservoir(s) in position and route the hose according to the provided reservoir installation 

sheet specific to your vehicle model (if applicable). 

4. Install your new Elka Suspension shock absorbers on your motorcycle. 

5. Tighten the nuts on the upper bolts in accordance with the information and specifications provided 

by the manufacturer and refer to the vehicle’s owner manual if needed. 

6. Tighten the nuts on the lower bolts in accordance with the information and specifications provided 

by the manufacturer and refer to the vehicle’s owner manual if needed. 

7. Attach the rubber mounts and tighten the collars on the reservoirs to a pressure of 6 inchpounds 

using a torque wrench. 

WARNING ! 

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT SHOCK ABSORBER POSITIONING 

• The reservoir on piggy-back models must be positioned towards the top. 

(See photo below) 

• For remote reservoirs connected by hoses, refer to the reservoir installation 

sheet specific to your vehicle model included with the kit. 

Piggyback Model 

Remote Reservoir Model 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


8 

>ADJUSTMENTS 

E) Adjusting the shock 

E.1 SUSPENSION DEFINITIONS, SETTINGS AND RULES-OF-THUMB 

RIDE “FEEL” 

As a basic rule, your suspension should make full use of its travel under normal riding conditions- i.e. 

the softer the better, until the suspension wallows or bottoms out, when more stiffness is called for. 

Given this principle, here are some simple explanations of how to get the most possible enjoyment 

and efficiency from your Elka shock absorber. 

Preload and sag have a major influence on the “feel” of your motorcycle, the smoothness of the ride 

and reaction to hitting bumps. You may make small changes to the factory settings (Read the information 

below first!) to see what feels better for you, making sure those original settings and your 

changes are written down so that you may return to original settings at any time. 

To preserve comfort and ride quality when you change your riding style drastically (Load, speed, 

surface), you should adjust preload and sag to optimise efficiency for the new conditions. See the 

following paragraphs for guidelines regarding such changes. 

PRELOAD 

Spring preload is the compression applied to the shock’s spring when at rest, using the top ring and 

Hydraulic Preload Adjuster if you have one on your shock. Preload is used to optimise suspension 

travel when riding with varying loads and riding style. Preload is also used to adjust the firmness of 

the suspension. 

SAG 

Suspension sag represents the change in vertical height at both end, between the fully extended 

suspensions and when you are sitting on the bike in riding position. As a rule, sag for a street bike 

should be set between 30 and 35mm (1 3/16 to 1 3/8 in.), and between 30 and 60mm (1 3/16 and 

2 3/8 in) for a dual purpose machine. The great variation for dual-purpose machines is due to the 

great variation in usage, from 100% street to 100% off-road with every combination in between. 

Please advise Elka at order time if you plan on extreme riding on your dual purpose machine, and we 

will set the sag accordingly. Sag is a critical measurement, and is normally adjusted by changing the 

spring preload, within certain limits. The paragraph on setting sag will address this issue in detail. 

FACTORY SETTINGS FOR SAG AND PRELOAD 

The preload / sag of your Elka shock is factory-set based on your type of riding and weight, as well as 

using basic knowledge such as the original factory settings and spring tension. 

There may be some instances where the Elka factory settings are not ideal. You may call us to 

discuss possible changes before venturing too far from the original settings. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


ADJUSTMENTS 9 


E.1 SUSPENSION DEFINITIONS, SETTINGS AND RULES-OF-THUMB 

ADJUSTING YOU SHOCK FOR DIFFERENT RIDING CONDITIONS 

Your first objective when setting up your suspension for daily use is to achieve a comfortable, 

steady and safe ride for the majority of your riding time. The Elka factory settings for spring rate, 

preload, sag and dampening have been selected to achieve this goal. 

Things change when you change your riding however! For example, if you use your bike for 

commuting, and decide to attend an occasional Track Day, you may decide to stiffen the 

dampening by a few clicks. As you pick up speed on the track, you may also need to increase the 

preload to avoid bottoming when cornering of hitting bumps. For your first track day, we 

recommend that you check your sag settings without changes, to start out with the softest possible 

suspension, which means you will make full use of your suspension. You may then start to stiffen 

things up gradually as your riding skill and corner speeds build up. 

Another example of drastic changes in riding conditions is when you leave for a tour and add a 

passenger and luggage. Here again, you may need to stiffen up the suspension to optimise 

suspension performance. Experienced rider know that adding a few clicks to the dampening and 

adding one or two turns of rear preload works when riding two up, and make such changes 

automatically when a passenger comes aboard. 

In all instances, avoid having the suspension hit bottom – a sure sign that you must stiffen up your 

suspension. 

HORSES FOR COURSES – SUSPENSION SET UP FOR OFF- AND ON-ROAD 

Elka Suspension builds shocks according to the type of machine and its uses, as do the original 

manufacturers. 

For bikes such as the BMW GS or Suzuki V-Strom models intended for both on and off road riding, 

the suspension is relatively soft, with longer travel and appropriate dampening. For purely street 

machines intended for smoother surfaces (Smooth roads, tracks), total suspension travel is shorter, 

and the spring and dampening are correspondingly stiffer. 

SPRING STIFFNESS 

When building your shock, Elka chose a spring tension based on a weight table for your particular 

bike make and model, and for nominal street use. Dual purpose and hybrid bikes were assumed to 

be carrying some luggage and an occasional passenger, as well being ridden off road occasionally. 

This assumption is validated using information from the buyer at order time. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


10 

>ADJUSTMENTS 


E.2 CHECKING AND SETTING SAG 

The sag for your shock was set at the factory, based on your weight and riding conditions. You 

may wish to validate the number or try different sag settings, so that a standard measurement 

method is required. Remember, you are measuring by how much the front and the rear suspensions 

droop between full extension and when you are on the machine. You must measure the front 

and the rear separately. 

MEASURING REAR SAG 

1. Place the bike on a flat, level surface. 

2. Have the rider sit on the bike in riding position, wearing his riding gear and his feet on the 

pegs, with someone holding the motorcycle upright. Have the rider bounce lightly a few times 

on the pegs and seat, then let the shock settle down 

3. With the rider still on the motorcycle, measure the distance from the ground or the swingarm to 

a fixed spot on the tail. 

4. Have the rider dismount and then lift the motorcycle to allow the rear suspension to extend 

fully while keeping the rear wheel in contact with the ground 

5. Measure the distance between the same reference points as before. The difference between 

the two figures is the rear sag. 

6. To increase sag, decrease the preload on the spring (refer to page 11 for procedure). 

7. To decrease sag, increase the preload on the spring (refer to page 11 for procedure). 

Please contact Elka if you cannot achieve the correct sag figures on your shock. Also ensure that the 

front sag and dampening are equivalent to the rear settings. 

E.3 ADJUSTING THE RIDE HEIGHT 

Elka Suspension shock absorbers make it possible 

to adjust the ride height. To extend the rear shock, 

loosen the jam nut on the shock with a 24mm 

spanner. To measure the extended lenght, measure 

the lenght of the thread you can see on the eyelet 

when the nut is locked. 

WARNING 

Do not extend the shock 

more than 10mm from the 

minimal height. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


ADJUSTMENTS 11 


E.4 PRELOAD ADJUSTMENT 

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. 

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. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


12 

>ADJUSTMENTS 

E) Adjusting the shock (continued) 

E.5 COMPRESSION ADJUSTMENT 

The black knob located on the remote reservoir is the compression adjustment. This adjustment 

controls the hydraulic resistance to high-speed impacts. A harder compression damping will offer 

more resistance to impacts but will provide a stiffer rider. A softer compression damping will 

provide a smoother ride but less resistance on impacts. 

If the compression adjustment is correct, the wheels can achieve maximum travel and traction. 

When the compression damping is too hard, the ride will be stiff and will not be able to absorb 

average to major impacts. It is preferable to start with a softer damping and add compression to 

you liking. This will prevent the rider from getting tired prematurely and will increase comfort and 

performance. 

INCREASING THE COMPRESSION DAMPING 

To increase the compression damping (stiffen), you need to turn the knob clockwise. There is a 

sticker on the knob indicating S and H (soft, hard). Turn towards the H. 

You should start in the middle of the adjustment. There are 30 clicks of compression adjustment. 

To adjust properly, turn the knob one click at a time and take a test ride. The adjustment is more 

sensitive towards the H than the S. 

REDUCING THE COMPRESSION DAMPING 

To reduce the compression damping (soften), you need to turn the knob counterclockwise. There 

is a sticker on the knob indicating S and H (soft, hard). Turn towards the S. 

WARNING ! 

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT COMPRESSION ADJUSTMENT 

It is not possible to check the compression adjustment by only compressing the 

suspension on the vehicle manually. You must ride the bike to assess the setting. 

The feeling might be right when bouncing on the seat but it could be very different 

on the track. 

Never compensate for a lack of spring strenght by boosting the compression or 

leaving the knob all the way towards the H setting. If your suspension is too soft with 

the adjustment above 25 clicks in, you should replace your spring with a higher rate. 

If the knob appears to be blocked, do not force it. 

If necessary, contact Elka’s Service Department for advice or repairs. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


ADJUSTMENTS 13 


E.6 HIGH- & LOW-SPEED COMPRESSION ADJUSTMENT 

The dual compression knobs located on the reservoir control the high- and low-speed damping 

of the shock absorber. Functioning independently, the small gold-coloured knob controls the 

low-speed setting (when the shaft’s movement is normal to slower like on g-outs, over small 

undulations, when cornering and accelerating, etc.) and the large black knob controls the 

high-speed setting (when the shaft’s movement is faster upon bigger impacts) 

When the compression is adjusted correctly, the wheels achieve maximum travel. If the setting is 

too hard, the wheels will be stiff and the vehicle will not be able to absorb average to severe 

shocks and the rider will take it. 

ADJUSTING THE LOW-SPEED COMPRESSION DAMPING 

Use the small GOLD compression adjustment knob to adjust the low-speed compression damping. 

To increase the compression damping (stiffen), you need to turn the knob clockwise. 

There is a sticker on the shock’s head indicating S and H (soft, hard). Turn towards the H. 

You should start in the middle of the adjustment. There are about 35 clicks of low-speed 

compression adjustment. To adjust properly, turn the knob one click at a time and take a test 

ride. The adjustment is more sensitive towards the H than the S. 

ADJUSTING THE HIGH-SPEED COMPRESSION DAMPING 

Use the larger BLACK compression adjustment knob to adjust the high-speed compression 

damping. To increase the compression damping (stiffen), you need to turn the knob clockwise. 

There is a sticker on the shock’s head indicating S and H (soft, hard). Turn towards the H. 

You should start in the middle of the adjustment. There are about 20 clicks of high-speed 

compression adjustment. To adjust properly, turn the knob one click at a time and take a test 

ride. The adjustment is more sensitive towards the H than the S. 

WARNING ! 

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT HIGH- & LOW-SPEED COMPRESSION ADJUSTMENT 

It is not possible to check the compression adjustment by only compressing the suspension on the 

vehicle manually. You must ride the bike over jumps and bumps to assess the setting. The feeling 

might be right when bouncing on the seat but it could be very different on the track. 

If the knob appears to be blocked, do not force it. If necessary, contact Elka’s Service Department 

for advice or repairs. 

Riding speed and compression speed are different. A small obstacle hit when riding at high speed 

will make the shock’s shaft move very fast and will be managed by the high-speed compression 

damping circuit (black knob). 

When the high-speed knob (large black knob) is turned, the small gold-coloured knob follows its 

movement without going out of adjustment and vice versa. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


14 

>ADJUSTMENTS 


E.7 REBOUND ADJUSTMENT 

The rebound adjustment is located on the gold anodized lower shock mount. This adustment 

controls the speed the shock will return to its initial extended state after being compressed from 

an impact. 

If the rebound adjustment is correct, the rear wheel should keep maximum traction by tracking 

the ground without catapulting the rider off the bike. 

INCREASING THE REBOUND DAMPING (SLOWER RETURN) 

Turn the adjuster clockwise. There is about 50 clicks of rebound adjustment. You should start in 

the full fast position of the adjustment. To adjust properly, turn the adjuster one click at a time 

and take a test ride. The adjustment is more sensitive towards the Slower side than the Faster 

side. 

When the rebound setting gets too slow, the shock absorber will not have time to resume to its 

initial position when a series of close bumps is encountered. In this case, the bike will run out of 

travel (packing) and may give the impression of a too soft compression adjustment. 

REDUCING THE REBOUND DAMPING (FASTER RETURN) 

Turn the adjuster counterclockwise. There is about 50 clicks of rebound adjustment. To adjust 

properly, turn the adjuster one click at a time and take a test ride. The adjustment is more sensitive 

towards the Slower side than the Faster side. 

When the rebound adjustment is too fast, the rear end of the bike will kick and move from side 

to side after hitting a series of close bumps and the rider will feel catapulted by the bike. 

Twisting Knob 

Fork Models 

Twisting Knob 

Eyelet Models 

WARNING ! 

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT REBOUND ADJUSTMENT 

Elka is one of the few manufacturers that offers a rebound adjustment that does not affect 

the compression setting. 

If the knob appears to be blocked, do not force it. If necessary, contact Elka’s Service 

Department for advice or repairs. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


MAINTENANCE 15 

F) Maintenance 

F.1 GENERAL MAINTENANCE 

A well-maintained shock absorber will last longer and perform better. For cleaning, use a gentle 

detergent and pay particular attention to areas where debris can become lodged. 

Do not use any abrasive cleaning products. 

Maintenance frequency may vary depending on the number of hours the vehicle is driven and 

the conditions under which it is ridden. Heat, violent impacts, dust, mud and adjustment settings 

are all factors that need to be taken into consideration in determining the frequency of basic 

maintenance and oil changes. 

Elka Suspension recommends sending your shock absorbers to Elka Suspension's service department 

for quality service, or else dealing with a Elka-certified suspension specialist for all maintenance 

requirements and oil changes. 

CLEANING PROCEDURES 

WARNING ! 

IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT CLEANING THE SEAL HEAD 

Do not use compressed air when cleaning the seal head as this can damage the seals. 

Clean the threads under 

the preload ring using a 

soft brush. 

Clean around the rebound 

adjustment knob so that no 

foreign particles damage the 

adjustment mechanism. 

Remove the compression adjustment 

knob by unscrewing the Allen type 

setscrew and pulling on the knob 

carefully then clean delicately. 

Use compressed air to clean beneath 

the bottom out bumper. 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


16 

>MAINTENANCE 

F) Maintenance (continued) 

F.2 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE 

Elka Suspension recommends that you inspect your shock absorbers before and after each use in 

order to detect any problems. We also suggest that you entrust Elka Suspension with all your 

maintenance and repair needs. 

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE 

After each use End of each season Annually 

Clean under the bottom-out bumper Yes Yes Yes 

Clean shock absorber exterior Yes Yes Yes 

Check hoses for leaks or loosening Inspect Inspect Inspect 

Check shaft for damage or rust Inspect Inspect Inspect 

Check seal head for leaks or loosening Inspect Inspect/Replace Replace 

Check nuts for loosening Inspect Inspect Inspect 

Check spherical bearings Inspect Inspect Inspect 

Check spring Inspect Inspect Inspect 

Change oil, piston and wearband, clean Replace Replace 

interior parts, check nitrogen pressure (each 6 months or each year, depending on usage) 

MAINTENANCE LOGBOOK 

Use the following space to log the maintenance made to your shock absorbers. 

DATE MAINTENANCE OPERATION 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 


Service Work Order 

Motorcycle Series 

READ FIRST: SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS 

1) Call our Service Department at +1 (450) 655-4855 or 1-800-557-0552 (North America) to get a RGA Number. 

Our representatives will assist you with further procedures. 

2) Fill out this Service Work Order form completely and put it in your package. An incomplete form will cause additional delay. 

3) Clean your shocks thoroughly. Use gentle detergent and pay attention to areas where debris can become lodged. 

4) Wrap each shock individually before placing them in a box to avoid damage during shipping. 

ANY DAMAGE OCCURING DURING SHIPPING IS YOUR RESPONSABILITY. Full shipping insurance is recommended. 

5) Send your package to the address below through following our representatives’ recommendations. 

It is very important to mention that your shocks are sent to be repaired under warranty to allow customs clearance. 

6) Turn-around time is usually between 7 to 10 days from the moment we receive your package. 

CLIENT & BILLING INFORMATION 

YOUR RGA NUMBER: 

Name or Company: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

City: ____________________________________________________ State: __________________________ Zip Code / Postal Code: ____________________ 

Phone: _________________________________________________ Fax: _____________________________ Reference Number (if any): _________________ 

Payment method: ❏ Visa ❏ MasterCard ❏ American Express Card #: _____________________________ Exp. Date: ________________ 

Bike Make & Model: _____________________________________________ Year: ____________________________ Riding Style: ❏ Racing ❏ Track Days 

Rider level: ❏ Pro ❏ A ❏ B ❏ C ❏ Expert ❏ Intermediate ❏ Beginner Rider Weight: ___________________ 

RETURN SHIPPING INFORMATION 

Same as billing information (check here): ❏ 

Name or Company: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

City: ____________________________________________________ State: __________________________ Zip Code / Postal Code: ____________________ 

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROBLEM(S) 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

SHIP TO: 

ELKA SUSPENSION, SERVICE DEPARTMENT 


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 

moto@elkasuspension.com www.elkasuspension.com 

Rev. D - 05/18/07


Phone: +1 (450) 655-4855 • 1-800-557-0552 Fax: +1 (450) 655-2821 

moto@elkasuspension.com www.elkasuspension.com 

PR-ROADMANU 

Rev. 11/07/08 

Printed in Canada

MOTORCYCLE SERIES OWNER's MANUAL - Elka Suspension Inc.

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?