How To Adjust Ohlins Shocks

If you're a motorcycle enthusiast or a dedicated rider, maintaining optimal suspension performance is crucial for a smooth, safe, and enjoyable ride. Ohlins shocks are renowned for their quality, precision, and adjustable features, allowing riders to fine-tune their suspension to suit various riding conditions and personal preferences. Whether you're upgrading your bike's handling or troubleshooting ride issues, understanding how to properly adjust Ohlins shocks is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you get the most out of your suspension setup.

Understanding Your Ohlins Shocks

Before diving into adjustments, it's important to familiarize yourself with the components and features of your Ohlins shocks. Most models come with several adjustable settings designed to optimize performance:

• Preload: Adjusts the initial tension on the spring, affecting ride height and sag.
• Rebound Damping: Controls how quickly the shock extends after compression, influencing ride comfort and handling.
• Compression Damping: Regulates how the shock absorbs impacts when compressed, affecting bump absorption and stability.

Some advanced models may include additional features or adjustable valves, but the core principles remain consistent across most Ohlins shocks.

Tools Needed for Adjustment

To properly adjust your Ohlins shocks, you'll need some basic tools:

• Socket wrenches or spanners (usually 5mm or 6mm Allen keys for preload and damping adjustments)
• Ride height measurement tool or tape measure
• Torque wrench (to ensure proper tightening)
• Owner's manual specific to your Ohlins model
• Optional: shock spring compressor for significant preload changes

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Ohlins Shocks

1. Preparing Your Motorcycle

Begin by placing your motorcycle on a stable, level surface. Use a paddock stand if available to lift the bike and keep it steady. Ensure the suspension is unloaded by removing any additional weight from the bike, such as luggage or rider weight, if possible. This ensures accurate adjustments based on the bike's natural ride height and sag.

2. Measure and Set Initial Sag

Sag is the amount the suspension compresses under the rider's weight and is critical for optimal handling. To measure sag:

• Measure the static ride height with the bike on level ground without the rider.
• Have a rider sit on the bike in full gear, ensuring they are in a natural riding position.
• Measure the new ride height with the rider on.

The difference between these two measurements is your sag. Refer to your Ohlins manual for recommended sag values—typically around 25-30% of total shock travel for street riding, and slightly less for sport or off-road use.

Adjust preload accordingly to achieve the correct sag. To increase preload, tighten the adjustment ring or collar; to decrease, loosen it. Use the appropriate tools and ensure the lock ring is securely tightened after adjustment.

3. Adjusting Preload

Preload adjustment changes the initial tension of the spring, affecting ride height and sag:

• Locate the preload adjuster, usually a threaded collar or a spin-adjust mechanism on the shock body.
• Turn clockwise to increase preload, which raises ride height and reduces sag.
• Turn counterclockwise to decrease preload, lowering ride height and increasing sag.
• Adjust in small increments (1/4 turn) and re-measure sag after each adjustment.

Ensure that the preload is evenly adjusted on both sides if your bike has dual shocks, maintaining balanced handling.

4. Fine-Tuning Rebound Damping

Rebound damping controls how fast the shock extends after compression. Proper adjustment ensures stability and comfort:

• Locate the rebound adjuster, often a small screw or knob marked with "Rebound" or "R."
• Turn clockwise to increase damping, which slows rebound and can reduce bouncing after impacts.
• Turn counterclockwise to decrease damping, allowing the shock to rebound faster.
• Make small adjustments (about 1/4 turn), then test ride to evaluate feel.

Optimal rebound settings provide a smooth ride without excessive oscillation or sluggishness.

5. Adjusting Compression Damping

Compression damping influences how the shock absorbs impacts during compression. Proper settings improve bump handling and overall stability:

• Locate the compression adjuster, often marked "Comp" or "C."
• Turn clockwise to increase compression damping, stiffening the suspension under impacts.
• Turn counterclockwise to decrease damping, allowing for softer response.
• Adjust in small increments and test ride to assess handling.

Note: Some shocks have separate high-speed and low-speed compression adjustments for more precise tuning. Refer to your manual for model-specific instructions.

6. Testing and Fine-Tuning

After initial adjustments, it's important to test the bike in real riding conditions. Ride on different terrains and at various speeds to evaluate the suspension's responsiveness. Pay attention to:

• Ride comfort and stability
• Handling through corners
• Bump absorption and rebound
• Front-end lift or nose-diving during braking
• Any excessive bouncing or oscillations

Based on your observations, make incremental adjustments to preload, rebound, and compression damping. It's often a process of trial and error to find the perfect setup for your riding style and conditions.

7. Maintaining and Periodic Reassessment

Adjustments are not a one-time task. Regular maintenance and reassessment ensure continued optimal performance:

• Check for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage.
• Replace shock oil or springs as recommended by Ohlins or if performance degrades.
• Re-evaluate sag periodically, especially after riding changes or modifications.
• Adjust damping settings as your riding style or terrain preferences evolve.

Additional Tips for Effective Adjustment

• Refer to the Manual: Always consult your specific Ohlins shock model's manual for detailed instructions and recommended settings.
• Use Proper Tools: Avoid makeshift tools to prevent damage to adjusters or components.
• Take Your Time: Small, incremental adjustments lead to better tuning results.
• Keep Records: Document your settings and observations for future reference.
• Seek Professional Help: If unsure or uncomfortable, consult a suspension specialist or authorized Ohlins service center.

Conclusion

Adjusting Ohlins shocks is a vital aspect of motorcycle maintenance that can significantly enhance your riding experience. By understanding the key components—preload, rebound, and compression damping—and following a systematic approach, you can tailor your suspension to match your riding style, weight, and terrain. Remember, suspension tuning is an iterative process that benefits from patience and careful testing. With the right adjustments, your Ohlins shocks will provide superior handling, comfort, and safety, making every ride more enjoyable and confident. Regular maintenance and re-evaluation ensure your suspension continues to perform at its best, helping you get the most out of your motorcycle.

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