⚙️ #26 Suspension Testing 👨‍🔬

Last time we did a deep dive into suspension was October 2023 (HERE). So we figured this months is a great time to do a follow up update. We have been primarily using WP forks (85cc) and Ohlins rear shock on the alpha bikes, as the availability, and moto level performance were perfect for initial testing during this Alpha phase. As we shift focus towards production design, we’ve started on the path towards a more tailored solution.

The WP+Ohlins combination have been great for early testing and concept proving around power train and frame geometry, but as the bike has become more sorted and performance limits are pushed, we’ve found gaps with the “85-fitment” designs. Ultimately, they lack the damping control and precision adjustments meaning we need to continue to develop a tailored solution.

Towards the end of last year, we formed a relationship with an elite team of suspension developers that had just assembled from some of the best brands around the world (Fox Factory, Ohlins, Showa etc).

Sirris just launched their website and first set of upgraded eMoto suspension this month (HERE). Our development partnership has been focused on developing a suspension kit custom built for the Dust bike, with our unique weight, performance, and use case. Check out more info on their suspension tech in the video below.

The primary upgrade from the WP forks are:

• Dual closed damping cartridge (WP at this size are single cartridge and single leg spring)
• Higher quality finishes for smoother, longer lasting performance
• More versatile and tunable for a wider variety of riding styles for adults
• Additional stroke length front
• No need to upgrade internals or send to a shop for full rebuild tuning

Luckily, we have had the opportunity to test this suspension set up in a couple events since installing. Most notably is Surfercross down in southern California, and the Red Bull Tennessee Knock Out (TKO). Both events required significantly different set ups as SurferCross was hosted on a moto track, which required higher speed rebound and over all stiffer set up with higher PSI in both stanchions for higher speed engagement and faster response. TKO was a hard enduro event so it was set with a lower spring rate, more open base compression damping and a few clicks slower rebound for slower speeds and more direct 45 degree hits.

We've been designing a bike with do it all versatility at the forefront, so when testing components the primary things we are looking for are durability, tunability, and an overall performance match. So far with early testing Sirris has been up to the challenge. Do you have a favorite suspension set up on your bike? Feel free to reply to this newsletter and share your set up!

Prototype Updates

• After testing a multitude of off the shelf moto/ gearbox combos we have decided that we will be designing and building our own. This will give us control over materials, build quality, and overall reliability of performance from our own Dust branded drive train.
• A major point of failure (especially during hard racing events) has been the plastics. Blowing connector tabs, breaking the front fender, and cracking the solid piece rear fender. So for the next prototype phase we are excited to finalize the designs so we can utilize soft tooling for production-like plastics. This will allow us to make the plastics in a softer, more durable material that we are all used to seeing on dirt bikes.

Dust Gold

• Retro or modern? In their newest release, Husqvarna thinks retro aesthetics are the way to go. Either way, pretty cool mix of the two in their heritage series CT models. Video and more info HERE.
• Chinese companies are starting to gain a strong reach beyond just the electric market. MCN reckons they are one of the best options in the UK for adventure bikes. Bringing up the age old questions of brand strength through recognition vs. new comers at a lower price. Take a look HERE.
• Can Am has released two new eMotos, the Pulse and Origin. There has been mixed reviews of it in regards to technology and pricing. An early look and deep dive on the power train can be found HERE.

Catch us at newsletter@dustmoto.com OR just respond to this email!

Done and DUSTED for this month. See you all on the next lap.