The different rear suspension kinematics in mountain biking
Today's full-suspension mountain bikes are packed with technology, particularly in terms of the integration of MTB suspensions. To help you see things more clearly, we will cover the three main kinematic categories on the market: single pivots, four pivot points and virtual pivot points.
THE DIFFERENT MTB KINEMATICS
- Single pivots;
- The four pivot points;
- Virtual pivot points.
REAR SUSPENSION KINEMATICS
Single pivots
It is the simplest and most reliable solution! The rear arm is connected directly to the front triangle with an oversized axle and bearings. The Santa Cruz Heckler is a good example. There are single pivots with articulated bottom brackets, as seen on GT, to improve pedalling behaviour and avoid bob. Single pivots linked to the frame via a linkage rod represent the right compromise to limit the bob effect, such as the Dartmoor BlackBird model.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Ease of operation | Pedalling bob |
| Ease of maintenance | Lack of sensitivity |
| Reliability | Lack of progressiveness |
The four pivot points
This deformable parallelogram system is distinguished by an articulated link between the main triangle, the chainstays and the seatstay with pivots and a linkage rod. It stands out for optimal performance throughout the travel; the rear pivot point is generally located on the seatstay (Four Bar Linkage) but also on the chainstays (Horstlink).
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Superior sensitivity | Complex maintenance |
| Progressiveness | Low pedalling bob |
| Braking independence | |
| Pedalling efficiency |
Particularity: the Equilink system used by Felt uses a connecting rod between the 2 linkages, allowing the wheel to move vertically under compression and providing a balanced anti-squat and kick-back.
Virtual pivot points
This kinematics uses a rigid rear arm articulated to the main triangle with linkage rods. As the pivot point is not fixed, it is said to be virtual as it moves. It is the ideal system for limiting pedalling bob by isolating the suspension's operation.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Low sensitivity to bob | Complex maintenance |
| Effective under braking | |
| Progressiveness | |
| Sensitivity & Comfort | |
| Efficient under pedalling |
This system is found on high-end brands such as Santa Cruz with the V.P.P, Yeti and the Switch Infinity, Evil Bikes with the Delta System.
CONCLUSION
Each brand has a different vision of suspension kinematics. Certain bike models will behave differently with the same shock absorbers. Although the single pivot is an ageing kinematic design, it remains a very good compromise between simplicity and fun. The other systems are more refined and more complex, bringing high-speed performance.
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