When it comes to enjoying a comfortable ride on your motorcycle, you need a well-functioning suspension system. The suspension determines the bike's handling and braking performance and creates a safe and enjoyable experience for the rider and any passengers. Here’s how they work, the different types available, and what to consider when upgrading or replacing your suspension components with motorcycle suspension companies.
Understanding Motorcycle Suspension Basics
At its core, a motorcycle suspension system is designed to isolate the rider and passengers from road noise and bumps, providing a more comfortable ride. The suspension typically consists of shock absorbers mounted on the fork tubes for the front and a swingarm for the rear. These components work together to absorb the energy generated from the road surface, converting it into heat and dissipating it through the shocks.
Exploring Front Suspension Types
Telescopic Fork Suspension
This is the most widely used front suspension system. It utilizes fork tubes to house the suspension components, including the coil and damper, within the tubes. Some bike types, such as off-road motorcycles, may have the springs exposed.
Rear Suspension Options
The rear suspension of a motorcycle plays a crucial role in managing the forces created during acceleration and braking. There are two primary types of rear suspension:
- Twin-Shock Suspension: A basic B-rear suspension design, this type is less effective as the weight on the bike's frame increases.
- Monoshock Suspension: Evolved from the twin-shock design, monoshock suspensions feature a single shock mounted to the swingarm.
Steering Dampers for Better Control
To improve overall control, motorcycle designers developed steering dampers. These systems are particularly useful for racing bikes and come in two main types:
Linear Damper
A long cylinder with clamps and a hydraulic cylinder attached to the front forks, linear dampers help reduce steering column vibration.
Rotary Damper
Sitting on top of the head bearing, rotary dampers use a hydraulic or rubber bearing system to dampen front fork vibration.
Key Suspension Terms to Know
When shopping for motorcycle suspension parts, familiarizing yourself with key terms can help you make better purchasing decisions:
● Reservoir: Holds the oil and nitrogen mixture that helps dampen road shock energy.
● Compression: The distance the springs can compress before bottoming out.
● Rebound: The rate at which the springs move upward toward full extension.
● Preload: The amount of tension the springs hold.
● Sag: The degree of suspension movement when the bike's weight is lifted off it.
Shop for the Best Suspension and More At Suspension Technologies USA the Leading Motorcycle Suspension Company
When it comes to upgrading or replacing your motorcycle suspension components, trust the experts at Suspension Technologies USA. As a leading motorcycle suspension company, we have suspension options for your bike model and riding style. Invest in your motorcycle's suspension system with Suspension Technologies USA and experience the difference for yourself by browsing our selection online today or contact us.