Whoever said making things more complicated was a bad thing?

Say goodbye to those bump-worn knees, dear bikers! At least in the next few years.

The Cannondale Simon is the first bike-suspension fork that's completely computerized. It's basically a bike shock that automatically adapts its resistance and clearance depending on the terrain.

An accelerometer and optical sensor update the computer 500 times a second. Based on speed and the bumpiness of the ride, the software directs an electric motor to adjust the valve size of the hydraulics.

Smaller valve sizes means less oil goes through, creating more support and less shock movement. This maintains the wheels' grip on the terrain, allowing more pedaling power to propel the bike forward on flat surfaces. A more open valve provides more cushioning for those rocky trails.



The Cannondale Simon is accurate enough to make adjustments amounting to 1/1000 of a millimeter, within a seven millisecond period. This, according to manufacturer, allows changes faster than the human brain can react.

Will this becoming a necessity for mountain bikers? Or another premium item that will add to the cost of entry for any would-be enthusiast? Whatever the case, Cannondale promises the Simon will hit retail "within a few years".