# Bike Suspension Preload and Compression

**URL:** <https://community.cyrusher.com/t/bike-suspension-preload-and-compression/368>\
**Category:** Questions\
**Tags:** ebike-tips\
**Created:** [October 11, 2024, 9:45am UTC](https://community.cyrusher.com/t/bike-suspension-preload-and-compression/368 "2024-10-11T09:45:13Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![Julin](https://community.cyrusher.com/user_avatar/community.cyrusher.com/julin/32/693_2.png) [@Julin](https://community.cyrusher.com/u/Julin)\
**Post date:** [October 11, 2024, 9:45am UTC](https://community.cyrusher.com/t/bike-suspension-preload-and-compression/368/1 "2024-10-11T09:45:13Z")

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### Preload

Preload is the initial tension on the suspension spring when the bike is unloaded. （_air forks_ have an air valve where you can add or release air to achieve the desired preload effect. ）

**When to increase preload** : heavy load,stiffness preference, need maintain bike stability in aggressive riding.

**When to reduce preload** : light load, feels too stiff or harsh over bumps, if bike have excessive sag

### Compression

Compression damping controls how quickly the suspension compresses when hitting bumps.

**When to increase** : rough terrain, stability needs

**When to reduce** : smooth trail, improve comfort,need more travel

Always take a test ride after making changes to feel the difference and fine-tune as necessary.

![](https://img.youtube.com/vi/G6hV9EZrC2g/maxresdefault.jpg)https://www.youtube.com/embed/G6hV9EZrC2g?feature=oembed&wmode=opaque

### How to Adjust Travel Suspension （XF900 & XF650）

![](https://img.youtube.com/vi/cbh8V4pAAbc/maxresdefault.jpg)https://www.youtube.com/embed/cbh8V4pAAbc?feature=oembed&wmode=opaque