FORGOTTEN MOTOCROSS TECH: TRU TECH’S 2003 SUSPENSION TRIPLE CLAMP

Tru Tech’s handlebar mounts pivoted against elastomer bumpers.

Motocross history is filled with examples of creative ideas that were heralded as groundbreaking, but, because of the rapid rate of change in development, sank into the swamp of forgotten technology. Although some are best left abandoned, others were truly innovative (if not ultimately successful). MXA loves to reveal motocross’ tech trivia. Do you remember this idea? Tru Tech’s 2003 suspension triple clamp.

Getting added suspension comfort from your triple clamps or bar mounts has become a big deal with the arrival of Xtrig’s PHDS bar mounts, Neken’s SFS air suspension triple clamps, Flexx bars and the Urmosi Soft Bar Clamp; but, 20 years ago, motocross racer Rich Truchinski designed the Tru Technologies Ride Control top triple clamp. It was ahead of its time. The Ride Control triple clamp mounted the handlebars on linkages. One end of the handlebar mounts pivoted on cold-rolled pivots, while the other end was supported by elastomer bumpers. In essence, Tru Technologies bar mounts were miniature swingarms. When you landed from a jump, your downward body weight and the ground’s upward force compressed the elastomers (allowing the handlebars to move as much as a 1/2 inch at the grips). Very simple and very trick.

The elastomers were under the triple clamp and came in different densities to control to the movement.

It was a unique idea. Instead of making mechanical handlebars or big cushy rubber inserts, Tru Technologies hit on the logical answer of having suspended handlebar mounts. The bar mounts moved in the direction of travel (and only in that direction). With elastomer bumper on the top of the triple clamps and underneath, the travel was plush. And since the links were solidly mounted at one end, they didn’t allow any bar wiggle or twist. Tru Tech offered three different durometers of elastomers. Tru Technologies Ride Control top triple clamps retailed for $299.99 in 2003.

Unfortunately, Tru Technologies closed in 2006, and Rich Truchinski started a new career as a financial advisor.

 

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