Abstract: An inexpensive damping force generating mechanism capable of generating both a compression side damping force and a tensile side damping force has a simple, lightweight structure. The damping force generating mechanism provides an inexpensive axle suspension capable of simplifying the suspension structure, reducing the weight, and effectively utilizing space. The damping force generating mechanism includes an elastic body which generates a damping force when being pressed. An internal pressure generating member is inserted in the elastic body and resists the pressing force.

Abstract: To provide a compression spring formed of an elastic body made from a resin or rubber which is capable of maintaining its shape upon deformation without the use of any supporting member, thereby always ensuring a specific load-deformation characteristic. A compression spring of the present invention includes a cylindrical spring main body, wherein compression energy generated when the compression spring is pressed in the radial direction is absorbed by elastic deformation of the cylindrical spring main body. In this compression spring, a base having a flat bottom surface swelled along a plane perpendicular to the pressing direction is formed on the pressing force receiving side of the spring main body. Furthermore, a reinforcing wall for connecting the swelled portion of the base to a side portion of the cylindrical spring main body is formed integrally with the spring main body.

Abstract: An inexpensive damping force generating mechanism capable of generating both a compression side damping force and a tensile side damping force has a simple, lightweight structure. The damping force generating mechanism provides an inexpensive axle suspension capable of simplifying the suspension structure, reducing the weight, and effectively utilizing space. The damping force generating mechanism includes an elastic body which generates a damping force when being pressed. An internal pressure generating member is inserted in the elastic body and resists the pressing force.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pivot pipe for a rear fork of a motorcycle, capable of being formed at comparatively low cost by a simple process. The pivot pipe has a lightweight, strong construction and does not vary widely in quality from one pivot pipe to another. The pivot pipe is connected to a right swing arm and a left swing arm and includes a first end supported on a needle bearing mounted on a pivot shaft and a second end having an inside diameter greater than that of the first end supported on a ball bearing mounted on the pivot shaft. The pivot pipe is formed by expanding one end of a single pipe by press working.