SINE SUSPENSION
The Arktos features Alchemy’s patented dual-linkage platform called the Sine Suspension. The
name Sine derives from the way the shock rate, when graphed, resembles a sine wave: It’s re-
gressive through the first part of the travel to absorb small bumps and provide climbing traction,
progressive mid-stoke to avoid wallowing on big hits, then slightly regressive in the last 15 per-
cent of the stroke to enable the bike to use all 6 inches of travel. Sine is also designed to min-
imize chain growth when the bike is moving, which improves pedaling efficiency and keeps the
suspension active under braking. The Sine suspension system is optimized at 30% overall sag.
Setting Sag
Sag is the amount of travel the shock compresses under normal rider weight. We recommend
that you set the sag on at 30%, but personal preference and riding conditions are also factors
influencing the amount of sag needed.
To check sag:
1)
Get all of your gear on, so you start with an accurate rider weight.
2)
With someone holding the bike, stand up on the pedals and get in your normal riding
position on the bike.
3)
Bounce up and down on the bike, compressing the rear end of the bike and the shock, and
when you are steady again, have someone push the travel ring up the shock against the
wiper seal.
4)
Dismount the bike gently (so you don’t move the travel ring).
5)
The amount of stanchion shown between the wiper and travel ring is your sag. 30% sag
would show 21mm of exposed stanchion between the wiper and travel ring.
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