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The precise functioning of the rear suspension is crucial for the design of a full suspension bike. It has a significant impact on the ride characteristics of the bike and is its core component. With its proprietary F.O.L.D. (FOCUS OPTIMIZED LINKAGE DESIGN) kinematics, FOCUS has developed and patented a rear triangle system that offers several advantages and can be used for all full-suspension FOCUS mountain bikes; Enduro, All-Mountain, Trail or Cross Country – it doesn’t matter.
Two Phase Kinematics
The design of F.O.L.D. is such that the suspension travel is divided into two phases. In the first phase, the characteristic curve of the rear triangle is degressive: the suspension responds extremely sensitively and absorbs even the smallest of bumps and dips, which produces the noticeable extra traction, compared to other rear triangle systems, that is typical of our F.O.L.D. system.
In the second phase, the characteristic curve is progressive in order to offer sufficient control even with stronger impacts, as well as prevent rim damage. Thanks to F.O.L.D., the suspension travel of the rear triangle feels longer than it is and ensures the rider has full control in any riding situation.
At FOCUS, we also use shocks that are specially tailored to the wheel, in order to tease the ultimate in performance from our bikes.
"While small bumps and dips are absorbed as if by a sponge, the suspension system offers impressive reserves, thanks to the respective end progression."
However, the perfect interplay of MAINLINK and GUIDELINK – the main components of F.O.L.D. – does not ensure the optimum functionality of the kinematics alone. A further key aspect is the chassis-flex of the rear triangle, already well-known from the world of motor sport.
However, the perfect interplay of MAINLINK and GUIDELINK – the main components of F.O.L.D. – does not ensure the optimum functionality of the kinematics alone. A further key aspect is the chassis-flex of the rear triangle, already well-known from the world of motor sport.
The chassis flex is of huge importance: for example, the rear wheel often loses traction in rough curves because the suspension can only absorb vertical impacts. Thanks to the optimised F.O.L.D. stiffness of the rear triangle, the rear wheel is able to generate enough traction in spite of transverse impacts. Result: the bike offers a much gentler ride. The precise optimisation of the rear triangle is not just calculated at the computer, but is primarily the result of many test rides across a wide range of terrains. This deliberate chassis flex has been well established in the world of motor sport for many years and is a key component in the race to shave seconds off performances. With F.O.L.D., we use this knowledge to good effect – for you.
Optimised riding dynamics
Shocks, linkages and bearings are arranged as low and centrally as possible over the bottom bracket. The resulting low and central centre of gravity maximises dynamic and agile handling, without making the bike seem nervous – in particular when it comes to technically demanding terrain and curves. And this is one advantage of F.O.L.D. that you will feel after just a few metres in the saddle. All bearings are also arranged centrally in the main frame, protecting them against mud and dirt.
The advantages
. super sensitive with ample reserves over rough terrain – thanks to the sophisticated design of the two-phase kinematics
. superb traction, even in rough curves – thanks to the specially customised chassis flex
. well-balanced and agile ride dynamics – thanks to the low and central point of gravity
Bikes with FOCUS Optimized Linkage Design
FOCUS SAM²
. Back to the basics of Enduro
. 170mm F.O.L.D. Full suspension
. 27.5" wheels
. Shimano E8000 drive with 756 Wh
JAM²
. More mountains, more trails, more experiences
. 150mm F.O.L.D. Full suspension
. 27+ (Plus), 29" (Nine) or 29"/27+ (Drifter) wheels/tyres
. Shimano E8000 drive with 756 Wh, or Bosch Performance CX drive with 625 Wh
THRON²
. Genuine trail bike with optional features
. 130mm F.O.L.D. Full suspension
. 29" wheels and fully-equipped models (EQP)
. Bosch Performance CX with 625 Wh
FOCUS SAM
. For bike parks and Enduro races
. 170mm F.O.L.D. Full suspension
. 27.5" wheels
. More downhill than uphill overall
JAM
. For endless alpine adventure and mountain-cross
. 140mm or 150mm F.O.L.D. Full suspension
. 29" wheels (Nine) or 27.5" wheels (Seven)
. 50 per cent uphill, 50 per cent downhill
FOCUS O1E
. For the trails on your doorstep and exhausting stage races such as the Cape Epic
. 100mm or 120mm suspension fork with 110mm F.O.L.D. Full suspension
. 29" wheels
. More uphill than downhill