KYB Unveils Prototype Inverted Fork for Mountain Bikes
The Japanese suspension maker is previewing a coil-sprung inverted fork and rear shock aimed at mountain bikers.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Hiking
KYB, a Japanese brand known for motorcycle race suspensions, has unveiled a prototype inverted trail fork and coil-sprung rear shock for mountain bikes. The fork is shown on a Marin Alpine Trail eMTB, and the company is also expanding into four-wheel suspension kits for Toyota and Ford trucks and SUVs.
Why it matters
KYB's entry into mountain bike suspension would add a new established supplier to a segment dominated by a few specialist brands. Its motorcycle racing background suggests the company is bringing high-performance damping know-how into bicycle components.
The prototype fork uses coil springs with speed-sensitive compression damping and a 170mm length on a 160mm-travel bike. The right fork leg carries compression and rebound adjusters, while the left leg's single adjuster has not been explained.
The players
KYB
KYB is a Japanese suspension manufacturer long known for its motorcycle race suspension systems, now moving into bicycle and four-wheel vehicle suspension.
Marin Bikes
Marin Bikes is a California-based bicycle company whose Alpine Trail eMTB is serving as the test platform for KYB's prototype fork.
The details
The fork legs clamp into the uppers, a design that could ease serviceability, and the lowers include rock guards and a thru axle. The rear shock offers adjustable spring preload, with likely dual compression adjustment and low-speed rebound control, though it may change before production.
Timeline
Earlier this year (2026): KYB's fork was teased at Sea Otter Europe.
- 2026-11-05
The prototype suspension was reported in an article.
After the SEMA Show: The prototype bike heads to northern California for testing.
Market Landscape
Inverted forks from Cane Creek and Fox have set the current benchmark for high-end trail suspension. KYB's thinner-upper design and coil-spring approach would challenge that benchmark with a lighter, motorcycle-derived alternative.
If KYB's fork reaches production, mountain bikers could gain an additional suspension option with serviceable clamped legs and speed-sensitive coil damping. Initial availability in Europe is likely to be aftermarket, while North American riders may first encounter it as original equipment on new bikes.
The takeaway
Riders shopping for a new trail bike should watch for KYB's fork as an additional option alongside established inverted designs. Prototype specifications can shift before production, so confirm final adjustments and weight once the product ships.
Further reading
For more on trail equipment and the terrain these bikes are built for, explore Hiking.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Bikerumor.
