Deviate Highlander 150 Frame - No Shock

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 allowing the rear wheel to move with the impact, while the bike continues to maintain forward momentum. It is a sensation that you will notice from your first ride and the result is that the Highlander has an ability to negotiate chunky terrain with a speed and confidence that plenty of bikes packing much more rear wheel travel can’t match. The careful idler placement, mean the suspension performance on the Highlander is the best of all possible worlds. This is because the idler location controls anti-squat, creating a deliberate +100% anti-squat curve which eliminates pedal induced suspension bob.

The unique kinematics of a high pivot point design, with it’s rearward axle path and high anti-rise means that under heavy braking chassis stability and the geometry are maintained - this simply means that aggressive riding is rewarded. The sensation of “the bike not holding you back” is very real on the Highlander and you’ll find yourself hitting lines that you’d have previously reserved for your downhill bike (or imagination).

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

In order to control pedal kickback and anti-squat on a high pivot point bike we need to use an idler. Unlike non-idler equipped 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 active providing traction. The lack of pedal kickback is instantly noticeable with the Highlander showing an uncanny ability to pedal smoothly through rough terrain.