I'm told flipping the linkage alters the angle of the shock, which in turn changes the way the load is distributed throughout the shock. This conversation was in refrence to my Raptor which is setup for MX riding. I value what these guys have to say...They build awesome suspensions. Most of their experience comes from sno-cross and if you ever watched that you'd understand why i went with ELKA. Those machines take a beating. in freezing conditions. ELKA had alot of good things to say about the rear shock and agreed the Raptor seems to fit/handle better with the linkage flipped. They suggested that i send them my rear shock for modification if i was going to continue to ride with it flipped. I weigh 180lbs i'm not sure if they were figuring that in their calculations. I usually tend to listen to the experts when it comes to suspension and internal engine mods. They tend to keep me fast and safe. The price they quoted for modding my rear shock was not that far off a "new" rear shock. If i'm pleased with the front shocks i've purchased, i will reward them with my business for the rear. Hope i helped