Rockers

Function and Design

A rocker, also known as a bell crank or linkage, is the lever that translates the linear motion of the push/pull rods into rotary force on the torsion bar and up-and-down motion of the damper. The rocker also provides mounting points for anti-roll bars and sensors that measure wheel travel.

Motion Ratio

The ratio of the rocker is the mechanical leverage it exerts on the damper. For example, 1 centimetre of wheel movement may translate to 2.5 centimetres of damper movement. Generally, damper movements are larger than wheel movements; hence the distance from the damper mount to the centre of the rocker is longer than the distance from the pushrod connection point to the centre.

This ratio can be changed depending on the circuit, but doing so requires replacing the complete rocker assembly.