Development of a New Suspension System Using a Knee Joint Mechanism

A new suspension system based on the functional movement of the human knee joint has now been developed, utilizing torsion spring as restoring force. The main characteristics of this new suspension mechanism are the application of spring force to both the vertical and longitudinal directions, and the elimination of high energy loss hydraulic, and friction dampers from the suspension system.

This suspension was successfully used in the 1995 Race Across America trans-continental bicycle race, completing the grueling trip with no mechanical trouble and with a significant reduction in physical damage and stress to the rider.