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MultiTrac Suspension

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Diagram showing the shock on Marin's MultiTrac suspension system.

Suspension theory

The main premise behind the kinematics used on MultiTrac models is simple: get the best suspension performance through a balance of small bump compliance and pedal efficiency, while also maintaining good midstroke support and superb bottom-out control.

ALPINE TRAIL • RIFT ZONE 29 • RIFT ZONE 27.5 • RIFT ZONE 26/JR

MultiTrac Leverage Curves

Marin's MultiTrac suspension utilizes different leverage curves, based on the model and suspension travel, ensuring that the rider has a system with the best balance between efficiency and control possible.

MultiTrac suspension leverage curve chart.
Nikki Whiles riding a Rift Zone Carbon 2 mountain bike through the trees, Wales UK.

Balance of small bump and pedal efficiency

WHY

This gives riders a plush feel without sacrificing power transfer to the ground through unwanted suspension movement.

WHAT

The beginning movement of the suspension smooths out small chatter bumps, allowing the bike to carry more speed through changing trail situations, as well as providing enhanced comfort and control for the rider, without sacrificing power transfer or traction.

TECH

Multitrac model utilize low starting leverage curves as well as antisquat values that are within 90-110% throughout the entire gear range.

Rider Nikki Whiles riding a Rift Zone 29 on a mountain trail, Wales UK.

Mid-Stroke Support

WHY

It allows the bike to maintain proper geometry while riding through rough terrain and prevents blowing through travel when pushing corners. This is how suspension is intended to feel.

WHAT

The bike maintains consistent and controlled geometry and rear wheel traction through rough trails, allowing a predictable ride through varying terrain.

TECH

The linear mid-section of the leverage curves plays perfectly with current shock technology to ensure good support, and anti-rise numbers that ensure that proper bike geometry is maintained on steep sections of trail.

Profile shot of a Marin Rift Zone 29 3 bike, showing the MultiTrac suspension.

Bottom Out Control

WHY

So you don’t blow through the bike’s travel on hard hits. This is critical to maintain control and inspire confidence when it is most needed.

WHAT

“Ramping up” at the end of the suspension travel to mitigate hard bottom outs, as well as provide a more controlled ride feeling as you get to the end of the travel, especially on hard hits and landings.

TECH

A “regressive hook” is utilized in the end of the travel, mechanically building force that slows the wheel and resists harsh bottom out, while also keeping stresses on the rear shock to a minimum on larger impacts.