Hello retro83, I hope you are genuinely interested and sincere in your question as I have a limited time in front of the computer and a lot to do.
I believe that subtle manipulations to the rear end on full sus MTB frames can improve both the efficiency and subsequent ride quality. On the frames I sell and with the bearings my back ends run, energy is actively being absorbed by the action, as there is less energy for the dampening unit to deal with the whole bike performs better.
Look at it this way if a proportion of the energy that is created when the back end moves is absorbed by the actual back ends action then the shock is better able to do its job. As long as this process doesn’t interfere with the movement of the rear end or shocks dampening there are benefits to be gained.
Say we have 100% pressure or energy in the transfer of movement from wheel contact to shock. With standard bearings there is no energy absorption and also as a result of the loose tolerances play either from the beginning of the bearings life or later on. The rear end will move on a very slight arc, and is therefore not as efficient at dealing with these forces that are being applied to it.
However in contrast my bearings or teflon thust spacers and other mods actively absorb energy without interfering with the function of the back end or the shocks dampening characteristics.
How could this not be a good thing? That said the proof is in the pudding.
Any three riders on here that want a bearing kit for their rides for yet again free!
As long as I have the bearings in my performance range they will be posted out to you.
First come first served. All past disputes are suspended, let fate decide who gets a freebie!!!
You have to show me a photo of you with your frame and a piece of paper with today’s date on it. You also have to prove that your bearings are goosed, let’s say a short you tube clip with your back shock off and the bearings condition. Or play at any of your pivot points.
Only the photo of the frame and piece of paper with the date are needed to qualify however you do need to prove the condition of the bearings later on.
Win the best bearings in the industry for a few moments of your time, install them and forget about them for years.
That said the thought of giving away another £100 worth or more of bearing kits isn’t a good one. Please don’t call my bluff.
Kael.