What is Monocross/Monoshock suspension in bikes?

Monoshock Suspension

How does MonoShock Suspension work?

Originally, Yamaha developed the monoshock suspension to improve the performance of its bikes in motocross competition. Some manufacturers also use the term  “flying suspension” for monoshock suspension. It provides a great deal of stability in the jumps and landings of the bike.

MonoShock Suspension Diagram
MonoShock Suspension Diagram

This suspension design uses a single (mono) shock absorber, bigger in size. In addition, it has a stronger spring fitted on the outside. The monoshock is usually positioned near the center of the bike’s chassis.

Furthermore, one of its ends attaches to the chassis. However, the other end to the rear swing-arm of the bike which attaches to the rear wheel. As the wheel moves up or down, the monoshock absorber either collapses or extends further.

MonoShock Suspension on KTM Duke 200
MonoShock Suspension on KTM Duke 200

Consequently, this enables longer stroke for the shock absorber. Thus, it results in longer travel for the rear wheel. Besides, this suspension is located closer to the bike’s center. Thus, it helps to improve agility & handling of the bike.

With some minor changes, the bike manufacturers have developed their own design. So, they have branded their Mono-shock suspensions to make their products stand out in the competition.

Manufacturers use the following brand names for their designs.

Make Name
Honda Pro-link suspension
Kawasaki Uni-Track suspension
Suzuki Full-Floater suspension
Yamaha Monocross suspension
TVS Monotube suspension

Motorcycle Manufacturers & Their Bikes having Monoshock Suspension:

Moreover, many bike manufacturers in the world choose Monoshock suspension as a preferred design for their sports & performance bikes. Following are some bikes with mono-shock suspension:

      1. Honda CBR 250R
      2. Hyosung GT250R
      3. Kawasaki Ninja
      4. KTM Duke, RC 200
      5. KTM Duke, RC 390
      6. Yamaha FZS
      7. YZF R15
      8. Yamaha Fazer
      9. Yamaha FZ 16
      10. TVS Apache RTR 180
Mono Suspension
Mono Suspension

However, the current motorcycles use the revised updated platform of monoshock absorbers. It includes an electronically controlled damping system. The high-end sports bikes employ the Electronic Damping System or EDS.

Watch the Monoshok suspension in action here:

Read on: What is Twin-Shocks Technology by TVS?>>

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