Full suspension with double swing arm -
safely mounted with iglidur G

Profile

• What was needed: Plain bearings for several bearing positions in the novel NOAH suspension system
• Requirements: Wear resistance, lubrication-free/maintenance-free, insensitive to vibration and dirt, cost-effective
• Field of application: Bicycle industry, frame construction

The specialist for handmade bicycles COFA Engineering has developed a new and so far unique suspension system. The designer, Steve Major, has drawn on his experience in mechanical engineering, mountain biking and motocross. What's special about the NOAH (Normally Operated Articulated Hybrid) suspension system is that it breaks with the convention that dampening must primarily be provided by the front wheel. Instead, the new system transfers the load to the centre of the bike via a double A-swing arm. This double swing arm directs the forces directly into a central suspension system, which then absorbs the shock. 

Problem

When the bike is used off-road, NOAH enables a longer spring travel for front forks (230mm) thanks to the suspension system guided in the central double swing arm. As with a standard telescopic fork, the front wheel moves linearly over the entire spring travel - but with the advantage that the steering angle varies depending on the fork's immersion depth. This unique central suspension also ensures that the centre of gravity is in the middle of the bike. In difficult, steep and bumpy terrain, the rider can control the bike better. In order to achieve smooth movement of the suspension system, suitable bearings had to be found that were ideally light and cost-effective.

Solution

The choice fell on plain bearings made of the material iglidur G. Due to their small cross-section profile, they increase the size of the bearing environment and the weight of the bicycle only insignificantly. With their low friction, high wear resistance and insensitivity to dirt and dust, they are perfectly suited for use in the NOAH suspension system. They are also cost-effective and - like all igus plain bearings - self-lubricating, eliminating the need for maintenance and lubrication. "This was our first experience with igus, and they were the ideal supplier for this project," says Major. "They've been there for us from the beginning. They invited us into the company, gave valuable advice, sent product samples and provided support. Any stock size we needed we could order instantly from the website - and even better - at a really good price. These bearings are ideal for the NOAH suspension system in their range of sizes."