Periodically measure the rear shock preload on your Indian Motorcycle Scout, Scout Sixty, Scout Bobber, Scout Bobber Twenty or Scout Bobber Sixty model. For the most comfortable ride and proper ground clearance, you'll need to adjust the preload if your ride height is out of specification. You'll need an assistant to help you with this procedure, which is detailed in your Owner's Manual.
Follow these steps:
Inspection
1. Verify that your tire pressure is at specification. The tire pressure should be 36 psi (248 kPa) on the front tire and 40 psi (276 kPa) on the rear tire.
2. Load the motorcycle with all intended cargo. Wearing your riding gear, bring the motorcycle to the upright position and sit on the operator's seat. If you plan to carry a passenger, have the passenger — with riding gear — sit on the passenger seat. Do not carry a passenger unless the motorcycle is equipped with a passenger seat and passenger footrests.
3. Measure the shock preload from the upper mount bolt center to the lower mount bolt center, eye-to-eye (1). Perform this measurement on both shocks.
4. The ride height for a Scout or Scout Sixty should be 282 mm (11.10 inches). For a Scout Bobber, it should be 275 mm. If the measurement differs, adjust the preload.
Adjustment
Special tools are required to perform the rear shock preload adjustment on your Scout. To adjust the rear shock preload, you'll need a shock spanner wrench or shock adjustment tool. See your Indian Motorcycle Dealer with questions. To find a dealer near you, use the Dealer Locator.
Warning: Uneven adjustment may cause poor handling of the motorcycle, which could result in an accident. Always adjust both the left and right shock preload equally or have your dealer perform the adjustments.
1. Verify that your tire pressure is at specification.
2. Rest the motorcycle on the sidestand.
3. Ensure the threads are clear of all dirt and debris before loosening the lock nut (1). Loosen the lock nut by turning it counterclockwise (as viewed from the top of the shock) with a spanner wrench or shock adjustment tool. The upper spanner nut on the shock is the lock nut. The lower spanner nut is the adjuster nut (2). Warning: Ensure the threads on the shock body are clean and clear of debris before adjusting the spanner nuts. Before attempting to adjust downward, spin the spanner nuts one full revolution upward and then adjust in the downward position.
4. Spray a light lubricant on the adjuster nut where it contacts the spring. DO NOT allow the spray to contact the drive belt.
5. Adjust the shock preload by rotating the adjuster nut clockwise, as viewed from the top of the shock, to increase preload (3) (firm) or counterclockwise to decrease preload (4) (softer).
6. Recheck the preload measurement after adjusting.
7. Tighten the lock nut securely against the adjuster nut.
Performance Shocks
If your vehicle is fitted with FOX® shocks (part number 2881790-463), the ride height should measure 282mm (11.10 in). For adjustment instructions, refer to the Set-up Manual.
For more information, see your authorized Indian Motorcycle Dealer. Find a dealer near you with the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.
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