The optimum suspension setting is often a mystery. High- and low-speed compression, the same for the rebound, SAG or options for reducing the air chamber make adjustment a challenge - especially for inexperienced bikers. Mondraker already provides tables for rough suspension set-up on its models on its website, but that's not enough for the Spaniards. Mondraker has now developed its own analysis system with many features called "MIND" for customising the suspension setup.
As a rule, bikers have to use a fine popometer to feel the subtle differences between individual clicks on the shock and fork. But you can also make use of the latest technology: Downhill pros and bike developers, for example, have been using sophisticated measurement technology such as data recording or other telemetry systems for years to tease the maximum out of their bikes' suspension and adapt it optimally to the terrain. While the 2019 presented BYB data acquisition system is more for professionals and amateur racers, Sram has developed the Quarq ShockWiz tool tried to establish an electronic tuning aid for the broad mass of bikers four years ago. But unlike Mondraker's MIND system, the small, black ShockWiz box can be used universally, as it is simply screwed onto the valve of air spring dampers or forks. During the ride, the ShockWiz tool collects the air pressure data and sends it to the corresponding app on the smartphone after the ride. The user can analyse the data and get tips on how to optimally adjust their suspension. This also works pretty well - as our tests showed at the time.
Mondraker promises perfect suspension setup
Mondraker now also wants to help bikers with suspension settings with MIND. In the MyMondraker app, the suspension travel used and the compression and rebound speed can be analysed. In addition, deflections and airtime during jumps are also mapped. Thanks to the recorded data and graphs, the rider can fine-tune their suspension. Unlike the ShockWiz tool, Mondraker's system does not provide explicit tips on which knobs to turn and how much. The rider can only have tips displayed during sag. These are based on the rider's body weight and riding style.
The part at the lower end of the steerer tube, which looks like a spoiler in MotoGP, has nothing to do with aerodynamics, but is a sensor of the MIND system. It detects the distance to the magnets on the dip tubes. The closer the magnet gets, the stronger the sensor perceives the magnetic field. The system (weighing a total of 199 grams according to the manufacturer) should therefore be extremely accurate. At the rear, the sensor is integrated almost invisibly in the main pivot point of the rear triangle. It works in the same way as on the fork. A magnet approaches the sensor during compression and the sensor detects the stronger magnetic field.
The MIND system also has a GPS sensor. According to the manufacturer, this allows it to record the distance travelled, speed, altitude and telemetry data for over 20 hours. In standby mode, the system is said to last for over 15 days. Thanks to the in-built memory, the rider does not even have to carry their smartphone with them on the journey. After the ride, the data can be transferred to the smartphone and analysed.
In addition to the built-in GPS, a SIM card can also be inserted. However, it is not used for making phone calls, but is part of the tracking function in case the bike is stolen. If the bike is moved without authorisation, the owner receives a message on their smartphone. In order to be able to track the bike, however, Mondraker requires authorisation. This function is particularly practical for expensive bikes and e-bikes.
MIND will be available in 2021 in all carbon variants of the models Foxy and Crafty will be used. The bikes will cost around 200 to 300 euros more. The electronic tool is only available in Europe and cannot be retrofitted. Mondraker is also planning to install the system in cross-country bikes, trail bikes and downhill mountain bikes over the next few years.
What is the difference to the Live Valve system from Fox? The Live Valve is not an analysis tool that gives tips on suspension set-up, but instead regulates and controls the entire suspension fully automatically and electronically while riding. It opens and closes valves in the fork and damper within three hundredths of a second and thus automatically adjusts the platform. Although the system also collects riding data via various sensors, this data is immediately collated in the controller and an algorithm calculates at lightning speed whether the shock absorber and suspension fork are hardened or not. The rider receives a direct response to the "surface analysis" with the appropriate suspension setting and doesn't have to worry about anything. However, the Live Valve does not help with the adjustment of the suspension elements, which you have to do yourself beforehand.
