An example elevator system may include at least one elevator cage that is displaceable in an elevator shaft, a connection means that has a first elevator cage-side end and a second end, and a suspension disposed on the elevator cage. The connection means may include, for instance, a balance chain or belt. The first end of the connection means may be fastened to the suspension on the elevator cage. Further, the example elevator system may include a support unit that exerts a force on the suspension that counteracts a force acting on the suspension due to a mass of the connection means. The support unit may include a rope, a deflection roller, and a counterweight, wherein the rope is fastened to the counterweight and the suspension and is guided over the deflection roller.