GillesDisorder

@chrod: Valid question, of course the geometry are not the same, different speed, weight etc. Not the same application as well. My point is still valid regarding the concept of the suspension system. At a certain level, the end goal of the suspension system is the same whether it is on an on-road motorcycle or an off-road bicycle: keep the tires in contact with the ground + isolate the rider from the terrain (comfort?) and we could also add give a good quality of feedback. The same principles of physics applies in both cases. Also, see any videos about the GS challenge (where they all race BMW 1200 GSA and you'll see that this suspension design is not only used in their road-going motorcycle. Agreed the GS Adventure is not an hardcore off-road machine but it can still take a beating. I recommend anybody interested in suspension design (motorcycle or bicycle...) to take a look at a book called Motorcycle handling and chassis design by Tony Foale (you can maybe find a pdf online)

So many ignorance in this comment section... opinion based on looks and beliefs and no actual experience or facts. I have a lot of experience riding motorcycles, the telelever and duolever from BMW are the best front suspension system I have ever ridden. Barely any dive during braking. The bike stay super stable during cornering. It really isolate bump absorption from steering input and braking forces. I could write pages on how this system is superior (except looks maybe) FWIW I am a mechanical engineer.

@game: yes, they are similar in their configuration as well (unified rear triangle on two linkages) I didn't remember about Karpiel. I mostly remember Karpiel for their twin shocked Armagedon Btw, I know that all these designs are different at some levels : shock mounting position, wheel axle path, leverage ratio and curve... Also, on a patent standpoint it's quite easy to differentiate each one, which DW must have done for a few as we see his name everywhere nowadays .

@jflb: Read again closely, I'm not talking about the BB7. My comment was about the Balfa 2 Step. A VPP like pivot geometry way before Santa Cruz or DW came up with it. FYI: http://www.balfa.wooyek.pl/balfa-2step-hd-dh.html

@obee1: and Iron horse sunday rear suspension is almost identical to the one on the Balfa 2 Step.

Voilà, Bottle cage boombox http://www.gizmag.com/boombottle-wireless-speaker/27032/

For those who have issue with their piston o-ring wearing out. Remember to service your pump once in a while. A few drops of air-tool oil will keep your pump working like new for a while.

they must have changed it.... does'nt work anymore...