Mountain Bike Suspension Systems

Mountain bike suspension systems have been designed to improve riding performance and comfort for the cyclist. Additionally, a suspension system may reduce fatigue, energy expenditure, and enhance time trial performance. It has also been proposed, however, that using a rear suspension system on a mountain bike may be detrimental to the cyclist, causing the cyclist's energy to be dissipated via the rear suspension system. This book presents an investigation into mountain bike suspension systems and their effect on rider performance, quantifying the dynamic loads exerted on the bike frame and rider. Both the psychological and physiological effects of using a rear suspension system on cross-country cycling are also considered.