Suspension
Every bicycle has built-in suspension elements.
The saddle rests on either coil springs or elastomers. Saddles for more upright sitting positions have especially well-suspended undercarriages.
The tyres also absorb road shock to a varying degree, depending on the type. Wide tyres inflated to an average pressure will absorb a whole lot of jarring, while narrow, high-pressure tyres react more abruptly to road imperfections. Schwalbe’s ´Big Apple tyres are specially designed for maximum suspension. Sixty-millimetre Big Apple tires are standard for the POTSDAM and available as an optional feature for the TERRA.
A good steel fork on closer observation, is actually not all that rigid: The fork blades that are curved forward also contribute to the elasticity of the forks.
Whether your bicycle should be equipped with further suspension elements, such as a suspension seatpost or suspension fork, depends on your sitting position and the desired level of suspension comfort.
When you ride in a more forward-leaning position the arms play a supportive role, and the saddle carries less body weight than in a more upright posture with a straight back. In addition, when you ride with a forward-leaning, extended upper body there is more tension in the back muscles, which protects the body from abrupt shocks.
Sitting position also influences the distribution of load over the front and rear wheels. The front wheel bears less weight when the rider is sitting in an upright position than when the rider is leaning further forward.
Therefore, for bikes with more upright sitting positions, you should first consider a suspension seatpost. A suspension fork may also be a good investment for bikes with a sporty, outstretched riding position. In this case a suspension fork can relieve fatigue in your arms and shoulders.
Suspension Fork
A suspension fork functions as an independent wheel suspension for the front wheel. It absorbs road shock that is otherwise transmitted to the frame via the head tube and to the arms and shoulders via the handlebars.
A good suspension fork offers not only sufficient travel but also a smooth responsiveness, meaning that the fork will even absorb smaller, frequently occurring bumps. The spring preload should be adjustable so that, depending on body weight and sitting position, the fork does not sag too much, and sufficient travel remains for stronger bumps.
The gamma.eins suspension fork offers exceptional smoothness owing to its special design, with 4 joints in the fork crown. It is easy to adjust, and the bearing mechanism with Teflon bushings is maintenance free. Unlike suspension forks with telescopic fork legs the gamma.eins has an “anti-dive effect” which prevents the bike from diving forward when braking.
Suspension Seatpost
Suspension seatposts are a good way to protect the spine and improve riding comfort, especially in more upright sitting positions.
The maximum level of suspension comfort that can be attained with a suspension seatpost, however, is limited. An excessively soft suspension here would cause undesirable bouncing when you pedal. We especially recommend the Airwings Evolution for its excellent responsiveness, preload adjustability and interchangeable springs that allow for precise adjustment to the rider’s weight.