Preload

In terms of motorcycle and ATV suspensions, spring preload is the static length of a spring (as it is installed in a motorcycle fork or shock) subtracted from its free length (as it is uninstalled). The spring preload determines the motorcycle ride height and sag. In motorcycle forks, preload is adjusted by the use of fork spacers installed in the fork tube or by turning a preload adjuster. On motorcycle shock absorbers, spring preload is adjusted by turning an adjusting ring that is secured by a lock ring or by turning a cam ramp. Adjusting preload is an important part of achieving proper suspension sag.