Abstract des Autors

This chapter gives guidance on the choice of the overall configuration of suspensions and of the components of suspension systems. Some bicycles have featured suspensions over the years, but cushioning over the worst bumps can be obtained, on conventional bikes, by rising off the saddle and using the legs to absorb shocks. Bicycle suspensions, when used, also weight and absorb the precious commodity, power. However, a well-designed suspension system may absorb less power on a rough road surface than would a bicycle or HPV without a suspension. HPV designs often do not allow the rider to use the raised-body technique of damping and can benefit from the addition of suspensions because of reduced rolling resistance in certain circumstances, better road holding, reduced structural loads, and greater comfort. Springs support the weight of a vehicle, but once set in motion, a spring mass can oscillate for many cycles before the motion ceases. Springs are constantly excited when the vehicle is moving, so shock absorbers or dampers are associated with each suspension member to eliminate the oscillations within a few cycles. Pneumatic tires are the first part of any suspension. Even the very narrow and very-high-pressure tires common today on road and racing bikes provide some attenuation of road irregularities. Verf.-Referat