VPP Linkage:
VPP suspension designs balance different forces to
eliminate unwanted compression without limiting bump absorption.
The downward force on your pedals pushes most full suspension bikes down,
resulting in unwanted suspension compression. VPP
bikes use a patented link configuration and axle path
to apply some of the pulling force from the
chain to counteract that motion caused by pedaling.
Because the forces are balanced, VPP bikes remain able
to absorb bumps when pedaling, unlike other designs
that effectively lock out the rear suspension by
applying too much chain pulling force. What you end up with is
plush
travel with no pedal-induced compression or
lockout and no need for manual lockouts or other
compromises.
VPP Sag and Active Suspension:
VPP's balance of counteracting pedaling and bump
forces is optimized at the recommended "sag" point.
Sag is the amount the suspension compresses when the rider is in a neutral
position. For example, when sitting on the bike at rest or
riding on smooth terrain. This point is about 1/4 to 1/3 of the way into
the suspension
travel.
VPP bikes are designed to be
ridden with sufficient sag to provide truly active
suspension, meaning the suspension compresses
(positive travel) and extends (negative travel) with
rises and dips in the trail. A VPP owner rides in a suspended "pocket"
with ample positive and negative travel available to
maintain traction and momentum in all trail
conditions, even while pedaling.
VPP Shock Rates:
Shock rate plays a huge part in any suspension
frame design. Shock rate refers to how much the shock
compresses for a given amount of rear wheel travel. A
"falling rate" design is harder to compress at the
beginning of the travel than at the end of the travel.
A "rising rate" design is the opposite, easier to
compress at the beginning than at the end. By
experimenting with hundreds of different pivot
placements and linkage designs, our engineers tune the
shock rates on VPP bikes to both rise and fall at different
points throughout the suspension travel, tailoring the
attitude of the bike for different conditions and uses
and maximizing the benefits of the VPP linkage and
axle path. It takes a long time but it shows in the
performance of each bike.
Frame Construction:
A great suspension design by itself is not enough to
make a great bike. To realize the potential of VPP
technology, every frame is carefully engineered
without compromise in materials or construction
methods. We start with custom tubesets made from the
strongest and lightest aluminum alloys available. Then
we use a variety of advanced design and construction
techniques, including custom part design, strategic
gusseting, modified weld bead profile and
shot-peening. Prototypes undergo rigorous laboratory
and real-world testing. Each frame is analyzed for
high-stress areas when pushed to the limit. Geometry is tested, tweaked,
and tested again. Every part of every frame receives
an obsessive amount of attention to minimize weight,
maximize strength, durability, and serviceability.
We've designed custom double-row angular-contact full-complement bearings
that are lighter and stronger than anything else out
there. The shocks that come on our frames are valved
specifically for each model to make the ride quality
that much better. We don't spend our time
writing frivolous patents or coming up with silly acronyms
for the innovations we employ.
We'd rather go for a ride,
wouldn't you?
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