WARNING
Adjust rear shock before riding. Distractions can lead to loss of control, resulting in death or serious injury. (00638b)
WARNING
Do not adjust suspension while riding. Adjustment knob is located near spinning rear tire/wheel, which could be inadvertently contacted, resulting in serious injury. (00639b)
1. See Figure 1. Locate the preload adjustment knob behind the left saddlebag.
2. Rotate the preload adjustment knob counterclockwise until it stops. The LOW position is the minimum preload.
WARNING
Do not exceed the motorcycle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). Exceeding these weight ratings can lead to component failure and adversely affect stability, handling and performance, which could result in death or serious injury. (00016f)
3. See Figure 2. Rotate the preload adjustment knob clockwise the recommended number of turns for the weight of the rider and the combined weight of a passenger and cargo. Two clicks of the knob are a turn.
NOTE
Example: For a rider weighing 73 kg (160 lb) riding with a passenger weighing 56.7 kg (125 lb) and 4.5 kg (10 lb) of cargo in the saddlebags, the recommended preload setting is 16 turns (32 clicks) from the LOW position.
NOTE
  • GVWR: GVWR is the sum of the weight of the motorcycle, accessories and the maximum weight of the rider, passenger and cargo that can be safely carried.
  • GAWR: GAWR is the maximum amount of weight that can be safely carried on each axle.
  • The GVWR and GAWR are shown on the information label on the frame downtube.
  • Maximum additional weight allowed cannot exceed specifications. Refer to Table 1.
Table 1. Load Capacities: XL 1200T
ITEM
SPECIFICATIONS
lb
kg
Maximum added weight allowed
403
182
GVWR
1002
454
GAWR: Front
340
154
GAWR: Rear
663
301
Figure 1. Preload Adjustment Knob: XL 1200T
Figure 2. Recommended Turns: XL 1200T Shock Preload Knob (two clicks equal one turn)