The uncompromising integration of the rear shock into the frame - this is what some manufacturers have made their mission. Whether fully integrated, as with Bold and Scott's new Spark, or semi-integrated, as with Trek's Supercaliber. Hiding the shocks is not just for visual reasons. The semi-integrated shock on the Trek, in conjunction with the flexing struts on the rear triangle, is intended to increase the stiffness of the race bike and close the gap between hardtail and full suspension. On the Scott and Bold, the shock is completely concealed in the frame. In addition to the unique look, this also ensures a lower centre of gravity. The aim is to achieve a more agile riding behaviour. However, the patent for the special deflection does not come from Scott itself, but from Bold engineer Vincenz Droux, who also developed the first fully without a visible shock presented in 2015. The majority shares in Bold now belong to Scott. The Swiss have further refined the system and presented the new Spark in 2021. Instead of being mounted vertically in the seat tube, the shock on the Bold is mounted horizontally in front of the bottom bracket (photo at the top) and lowers the centre of gravity even further. As with the Bold, a service flap on the down tube allows for adjustments and maintenance work.
This has several advantages: You can still tune the shock in the frame, and the large opening also makes internal cable routing easier. On top of this, Bold also has space in the down tube for an emergency kit with inner tube, tyre levers, spare parts, mini tool and even a mini pump. A boot in the frame, so to speak. Manufacturers such as Specialized, Trek, Scor and Last also equip their bikes with a storage compartment. Although this makes optimum use of the space in the frame, it unfortunately also increases the weight somewhat. Despite the large maintenance flap, adjusting the shock is also more difficult than with an exposed shock.
The costs
For an experienced mechanic, it hardly makes a difference in terms of time when removing the shock absorber whether it is integrated or non-integrated. Provided the mechanic knows the special features of the respective manufacturer. Small damper service from approx. 140 euros
