Abstract: An improved bicycle rear suspension system with a triangular wheel suspension component comprising three members; a planar truss chainstay member with a wide lateral side and a thin vertical side, adapted to be longitudinally and laterally rigid and vertically flexible; a seatstay member with an integrated shock absorbing means adapted to dampen the suspension movement, the shock absorbing means being a long-travel, short-length shock absorber with angular deflection capability; and a seat tube member, arranged in a triangular configuration wherein one, two, or all three junctions between the members are pivotless, thereby eliminating rotating pivot elements and providing a low maintenance requirement, durability, high reliability, low manufacturing costs, progressive springing and damping, a comfortable ride, a compact size, and light weight, while increasing lateral and torsional rigidity and wheel travel, and maintaining the strength and aesthetic appeal of the traditional diamond frame.

Abstract: An improved bicycle rear suspension system comprises a main frame (20) and a swingarm (22), the former having a seat (32) and the latter having a rear wheel (34) and a pedal crankset assembly (38) mounted on it. The suspension has predetermined proportions which provide long travel, or bump absorbing motion, without exhibiting pedaling-induced motion. The swingarm (22) is hinged to the main frame (20) at a single pivot axis (24). The specified location of the pivot axis is such that the suspension is several times firmer when the rider is standing than when the rider is sitting. This pivot location also ensures that the pedaling forces applied to the swingarm (22) are substantially balanced throughout the pedal stroke. This mechanism also provides a frame geometry which can adjust to different terrain conditions. A lightweight structure for the swingarm (22) provides high strength and stiffness. The swingarm (22), when viewed from the side, presents a diamond shape divided into a plurality of triangles.