On Chieftain, Indian Springfield and Roadmaster models, the rear shock absorber movement and air pressure should be checked before each ride to ensure the correct amount of suspension and ground clearance. The required amount can change based on the rider's weight, the amount of cargo being carried and whether a passenger is being carried.
Warning: Exceeding the gross vehicle weight rating of your motorcycle can reduce stability and handling and could cause loss of control. NEVER exceed the GVWR of your motorcycle.
To ensure riding comfort and proper ground clearance, adjust the rear shock air pressure. The proper pressure is shown on the label on the inside of the left side cover. When doing so, follow these guidelines:
- Park your motorcycle with the sidestand down on a firm, level surface. Remove all riders and cargo.
- Do not exceed 150 PSI (1,034 kPa) in the shock. Expect to lose up to 5 PSI (34 kPa) with each check.
- Follow the instructions found in your Owner's Manual.
Caution: Air pressure increases VERY quickly when using pressurized air. Wear eye and face protection.
After parking the motorcycle — with the sidestand down on a firm, level surface — and removing all riders and cargo, remove the left side cover. Remove the cap from the air fitting.
Determine the recommended rear shock air pressure from the label located on the inside of the left side cover.
Install the hose fitting of the gauge securely onto the air fitting. Read the air pressure on the gauge.
To reduce air pressure, push the bleed button on the gauge. Bleed pressure in small amounts until the desired pressure is attained.
To increase pressure, pump the handle until pressure increases to the desired amount.
Remove the hose from the air fitting and reinstall the cap.
| Air Suspension Adjustment | ||||
| Total Cargo & Occupant Weight | Air Pressure (psi) | Max. Pressure: 150 psi (1,034 kPa) | ||
| No Trunk | Leather Trunk | Painted Trunk | ||
| 0 lbs. (0 kg) | 0 | 0 | 0 | Select pressure corresponding to total cargo and occupant weight. |
| 150 lbs. (68 kg) | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| 175 lbs. (79 kg) | 0 | 0 | 10 (69 kPa) | |
| 200 lbs. (91 kg) | 0 | 10 (69 kPa) | 23 (159 kPa) | |
| 225 lbs. (102 kg) | 10 (69 kPa) | 23 (159 kPa) | 30 (207 kPa) | |
| 250 lbs. (113 kg) | 23 (159 kPa) | 30 (207 kPa) | 38 (262 kPa) | |
| 275 lbs. (125 kg) | 30 (207 kPa) | 38 (262 kPa) | 48 (331 kPa) | |
| 300 lbs. (136 kg) | 38 | 48 (331 kPa) | 60 (414 kPa) | |
| 325 lbs. (147 kg) | 48 (331 kPa) | 60 (414 kPa) | 71 (490 kPa) | |
| 350 lbs. (159 kg) | 60 (414 kPa) | 71 (490 kPa) | 85 (586 kPa) | |
| 375 lbs. (170 kg) | 71 (490 kPa) | 85 (586 kPa) | 100 (689 kPa) | |
| 400 lbs. (181 kg) | 85 (586 kPa) | 100 | 122 (841 kPa) | |
| 425 lbs. (193 kg) | 100 (689 kPa) | 122 (841 kPa) | 134 (924 kPa) | |
| 450 lbs. (204 kg) | 122 (841 kPa) | 134 (924 kPa) | 145 (1,000 kPa) | |
| 475 lbs. (215 kg) | 134 (924 kPa) | 145 (1,000 kPa) | N/A | |
| 500 lbs. (227 kg) | 145 (1,000 kPa) | N/A | N/A | |
If your vehicle is upfitted with performance shocks, refer to the accessory instructions for suspension adjustment instructions.
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.
YouTube® is a registered trademark of Google LLC
Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC
© 2022 Indian Motorcycle International, LLC
