Bypass shocks are a type of shock absorber that enhances suspension performance by allowing oil to flow around the main shock piston through external tubes.
How Bypass Shocks Work
Bypass shocks differ from standard shocks in their ability to provide position-sensitive damping. This is achieved through the following mechanism:
- External Bypass Tubes: The key feature is the series of external tubes running around the shock body. These tubes provide alternative pathways for oil flow. According to the reference, bypass shocks work by allowing oil to flow through tubes around the main shock piston.
- Check Valves: Each tube has a check valve, ensuring oil flow in only one direction.
- Variable Damping Zones: By positioning bypass tubes at different heights along the shock body, the shock creates distinct damping zones. The reference specifies that by stacking bypass tubes around the body at different heights the shock will have softer and stiffer zones.
Benefits of Bypass Shocks
- Customizable Damping: Bypass shocks allow for very fine-tuned suspension performance based on the position of the shock.
- Improved Ride Quality: The ability to create soft zones in the suspension travel can greatly improve comfort.
- Enhanced Off-Road Performance: Bypass shocks provide the necessary control and stability in demanding off-road conditions.
In summary, bypass shocks offer sophisticated damping control through their unique design, making them popular in off-road racing and other applications where suspension performance is critical.
