Icons of BMW Engineering: Telelever and Paralever Suspension Systems

Revolutionary Technologies Redefining Motorcycle Riding Dynamics

Dear motorcycle enthusiasts, the soul of a motorcycle lies not only in its engine but also in its suspension systems, which provide its communication with the road. BMW Motorrad is known for its engineering marvels, and two specific suspension systems, Telelever and Paralever, have frequently made headlines. These systems are a reflection of BMW's uncompromising stance on riding comfort, road holding, and safety. Let's take a closer look at these technical masterpieces.

Telelever: An Innovative Approach to Front Suspension

Introduced by BMW in 1993 with the R 1100 RS model, Telelever brought a whole new perspective to traditional telescopic fork design. Its primary goal is to increase riding stability by eliminating the “dive” effect that occurs during braking and to maximize rider comfort.

How Telelever Works?

• Difference from Traditional Forks: In the Telelever system, unlike traditional forks, there is a main spring/shock absorber unit that undertakes the suspension task of the front wheel. Traditional forks, on the other hand, mainly perform the steering function.
• Wishbone: A triangular “A” arm (wishbone), hinged to the chassis, is connected to the lower triple clamp (lower fork bridge). This arm directly transmits forces generated during braking to the chassis and the central spring/shock absorber unit.
• Reduced Brake Dive: When braking, thanks to the wheel's geometry, the front end tends to move forward rather than diving downwards. The A-arm and central shock absorber keep this movement under control and absorb braking forces, almost completely eliminating the dive effect. As a result, the steering angle remains more constant during braking, giving the rider a more stable, secure feeling.
• Riding Benefits: Thanks to reduced brake dive, the rider experiences less fatigue, the motorcycle's balance is not disturbed when braking in a corner, steering precision increases, and road surface irregularities are felt less.

Paralever: Solution to Rear Suspension and Shaft Drive Reaction

Another engineering marvel from BMW, Paralever, was developed to solve the problem of “shaft reaction” or “jacking effect” (rising on acceleration/sagging on deceleration) encountered especially in motorcycles with shaft drive systems. It was first introduced in 1988 on the R 100 GS model.

How Paralever Works?

• Shaft Reaction Problem: In traditional shaft drive systems, when the throttle is opened, the engine's torque, while rotating the rear wheel, also causes the power rotating inside the shaft to push the rear suspension upwards, causing the rear of the motorcycle to rise (jacking up). When the throttle is closed, the opposite effect occurs, and the rear sags. This negatively affects the rear wheel's traction and reduces riding comfort.
• Parallel Linkage Mechanism: The Paralever system is a “parallel linkage” developed to neutralize this effect. An additional joint (hinge) is added to the final drive unit (differential) at the end of the traditional single-sided swingarm. This joint allows for balancing the effect of rotational forces generated during shaft power transmission on the swingarm.
• Torque Balance: Thanks to this double-hinged system, the rotational forces of the shaft are balanced without disturbing the movement of the swingarm. The rear wheel maintains a more consistent contact with the ground when accelerating or decelerating, and the rising/sagging effect is significantly reduced or completely eliminated.
• Riding Benefits: It offers increased rear wheel traction, more stable acceleration and deceleration, better absorption of road surface irregularities, and an overall more comfortable riding experience.

Conclusion: BMW's Suspension Vision

BMW's Telelever and Paralever systems are two significant steps that have revolutionized motorcycle engineering. Thanks to these technologies, BMW motorcycles offer a more stable experience in corners, safer braking, and a more comfortable overall ride. If you are a BMW rider, whether you realize it or not, you benefit from the superior riding dynamics offered by these systems on every ride. BMW's innovative spirit and engineering excellence continue to make our journeys more enjoyable and safer with Telelever and Paralever. Ride safe!