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The OST Revolution
OST (Optimized Suspension technology) by Lapierre is the latest technological innovation from the pioneering French brand. Like the existing FPS2 Lapierre Technology, the OST Patented system is based on a virtual pivot point, but with remarkably enhanced performance for long_travel bikes. The goal of OST was to create the ultimate all-mountain bike with the perfect lightweight blend of versatility, performance, and optimized geometry, for total riding pleasure.
Zesty and Spicy: two highlights of 2008
The result of careful study and a close collaboration between Lapierre factory riders and the R&D department, OST gives rise to a new generation of mountain bikes, available in two distinct models for 2008: Zesty (140mm rear travel) and Spicy (160mm rear travel). Although the Zesty and Spicy are made for different types of riding, they both give the same quality of ride over various terrains. Zesty and Spicy allow riders to exceed limits and climb as well as they descend.
A surprising versatility and a dynamic character that favors riding sensations, riders of all levels can enjoy and appreciate the new OST system in all types of situations and terrains. Zesty and Spicy are a combination of Lapierre know-how, with optimized geometry, innovative suspension and carefully developed frames.
Record Weights for mountain bikes of this type
The weight obtained by Lapierre engineers on the Zesty and Spicy models is remarkably light: the Zesty 914 weighs in at 11.4kg, while the Spicy 916 is at 12.5kg
A new Lapierre technology for long-travel bikes
Inspired by the well-know FPS2 technology, the patented OST technology is base on a virtual pivot point system that fights pedal bob. OST has:
- The existence of an equilibrium point when the rider is on the bike
- A counteraction proportional to any force produced by pedal bob, thus eliminating it.
How does it work?
As with FPS2, any force created by pedal bob is counteracted by pedaling: the tension created in the chain with pedal stroke will bring the rear swing arm back to its equilibrium point. If the rear shock is properly adjusted to the weight of the rider, the efficiency and performance are optimal
OST innovations, new linkage positioning and angling.
With OST, the trajectory of virtual pivot point is horizontal and moves towards the front. This new structure procures a different curve but the same stability when pedaling and is especially advantageous for long-travel bikes:
The structure of the frame is optimized for long-travel bikes, which allows for substantial weight gain (compared to an X-160 with the FPS2 system from 2007, the weight gain is approximately 500g on the frame alone)
OST offers more options with the geometry of the bike:
- Optimized seat angle
- Lower bottom bracket
- Compact frame - lighter weight
OST has an optimized leverage ratio curve ad hydraulic settings:
- More linear compression curve
- More stability while pedaling
- More grip in the climbs and when braking
- Better position for climbing(no need to adjust fork travel)
- Better performance in burms
The placement of the front deraileur on the swing arm with the pivot point above the bottom bracket provides a better efficiency when changing speeds.
With an angle of nearly 90 deg., the links provide increased stiffness for better response when riding
OST allows for more possibilities in sag settings; each rider can adapt the bike to his or her style of riding without energy loss
Total absence of pedal kick back
OST optimized performance with latest forks and shocks from FOX
The R&D department collaborated with FOX engineers to improve the hydraulics of the new FOX forks. The rear shock also benefited from this cooperative development with optimized ratio curves for enhanced OST performance
The rear shocks that are used with the OST system are exclusive and were especially developed for Lapierre, with specific air volume and hydraulic settings.
Result: Improved shock absorption and bike performance at high and low speeds
ZESTY 914 - 11.5 kg
SPICY 916 - 12.5 kg
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