Anti-squat is a suspension parameter for full-suspension mountain bikes ( full-suspension bikes) that describes how strongly the rear suspension reacts to pedaling force. More precisely, anti-squat indicates the degree to which the bike compresses into the suspension or "works" against it when pedaling.

How it works

When a rider pedals, forces act on the rear wheel and the suspension. Without anti-squat, the suspension would compress significantly with each pedal stroke, resulting in energy loss. A higher anti-squat value ensures that the suspension remains more stable and that pedaling power is transferred to the ground more efficiently.

Significance for driving behavior

• High anti-squat: The bike remains more stable while pedaling, ideal for climbs and sprint-heavy sections. However, too high a value can reduce comfort, as the suspension responds less actively to bumps.

• Low anti-squat: The bike absorbs bumps better and offers a more comfortable ride, but can "sag" under hard pedaling and waste energy.

Practice

Anti-squat is usually determined by the geometry and kinematic point of the rear suspension. Manufacturers often specify this value as a percentage – a value of 100% means that the bike practically doesn't squat at all under pedaling force.

Anti-squat is a crucial parameter for balancing pedaling efficiency and suspension activity. Cross-country bikes tend to have a higher value, while enduro or trail bikes often use more moderate values ​​to offer greater comfort and traction.