High Pivot Point

Every rear suspension system has a pivot point. The suspension design on the Highlander uses a high, single pivot point, which results in a rearward axle path. This allows the rear wheel to move proportionally rearward with any impact, while the bike continues to maintain forward momentum. It is a sensation that you will notice from your first ride - the Highlander II can negotiate chunky terrain with a speed and confidence that many bikes packing much more rear wheel travel simply can’t match. Careful idler placement means that the suspension performance on the Highlander II is the best of all possible worlds. The idler location controls anti-squat with a +100% anti-squat curve to eliminate pedal induced suspension bob.

Idler

Unlike conventional, non-idler equipped suspension designs, we can virtually eliminate pedal kickback while creating a balanced anti-squat curve which is controlled by the idler position. In the real world this means the bike pedals incredibly well, without bobbing, while the suspension remains fully active: the Highlander II has an uncanny ability to pedal smoothly through rough terrain.

Linkage

Our linkage is designed to offer a progressive leverage curve with support for harder and more aggressive riders. High volume air shocks and coil shocks are compatible. The idler means that the leverage ratio of the Highlander II is tuned independently of anti-squat and pedal kickback (of which there is a negligible amount).

Suspension Kinematics

The unique kinematics of a high pivot point design – a rearward axle path and high anti-rise – means that, under heavy braking, chassis stability and the geometry are maintained. Essentially, aggressive riding is rewarded. The sensation of “the bike not holding you back” is very real on the Highlander II. Riders find themselves hitting lines that they have previously reserved for their downhill bike (or their imagination).

Cable Management

When it comes to cable management, internal cable routing is great for a sleek looking bike, yet, it does make the cables harder to access when changing parts or carrying out maintenance. Our solution to this is a cable ‘gutter’ that runs down the underside of the top-tube, designed to keep your cables tucked away and out of sight, whilst maintaining accessibility to the cables.