i-track
is a patent pending rear suspension system for mountain bikes,
which allows pedalling characteristics to be designed independently
of any other design variables.
This means that other key factors such as wheel path and braking
characteristics can be optimised to perform best in coasting/braking
situations, while the pedalling characteristics can be optimised
for pedalling situations.
At the heart of the i-track suspension system is an idler pulley
which controls the upper chainline running between the front and
rear sprockets. This idler is located on an ‘idler control
mechanism’, which moves as a function of suspension travel.
(iPhone and iPad users click here to view the video).
As the suspension moves, the mechanism moves the idler along a
predetermined path (or track, hence the name i-track).
This movement of the idler strategically controls the chainline,
and hence controls the way pedalling forces are transmitted into
the suspension system.The i-track suspension system also allows
the pedalling characteristics to be tuned with greater flexibility
than is possible with current suspension systems.
A common band-aid fix for poor suspension designs is to use excessive
amounts of low speed compression damping to control the erratic
behaviour that occurs when pedalling.
With i-track, having complete freedom to tune the pedalling characteristics,
with great flexibility, provides a system that can be designed to eliminate
‘pedal-bob’. This means that low speed compression
damping can be reduced to levels where it works best for its intended
purpose. Less low speed compression damping means more sensitivity,
more traction, and more control.
i-track suspension can be applied to all genres of full suspension
mountain bikes, but is most beneficial to long travel suspension
bikes such as downhill bikes and all-mountain bikes.
i-track suspension can be configured in many different
ways, allowing bike manufacturers to combine this new technology
with an existing design philosophy.
When properly applied, the i-track
suspension system results in a bike that performs better in every
situation.