Excelsior's Leading-Link Front Suspension: A Historical Overview

Origins and Design

In the world of motorcycling, suspension systems play a crucial role in providing comfort, stability, and handling. Among the various types of suspension designs, the leading-link front suspension stands out with its unique and innovative approach. Back in 1927, Excelsior Motorcycles introduced the Super-X model, which featured a well-sprung leading-link front fork that would go on to become a hallmark of Excelsior's motorcycles.

The Excelsior Super-X's leading-link front suspension consisted of four legs of a parallelogram going through the front fender. This design allowed the front wheel to move up and down smoothly while also providing support and control. Unlike other leading-link forks where the legs go around the front fender, Excelsior's design positioned them through the fender, offering a distinctive and functional look.

Excelsior's Heritage and the Super X

The Excelsior Super-X and its Impact

When Excelsior Henderson revived the Excelsior brand in 1999, they incorporated the leading-link front suspension as a key design element. The Excelsior Henderson Super X aimed to evoke the heritage and spirit of the original Excelsior motorcycles while incorporating modern technology and design. The leading-link front suspension became a signature feature, connecting the new Super X to its illustrious predecessors.

The Super X replaced Excelsior's other flagship model, a 61-cubic-inch V-Twin. Discontinued during the Super X's inaugural production year, the V-Twin gave way to the smaller, more agile Super X. With its updated design and impressive performance, the Super X quickly gained a loyal following.