Are Split Pivot and ABP the same?

Yes, the same concept with a different name: a pivot concentric with the rear axle. Split Pivot is Dave Weagle's patent; ABP (Active Braking Pivot) is what Trek calls its implementation. Devinci also uses it under licence.

Split Pivot / ABP: the pivot on the axle that improves braking

Q: How does it differ from the Horst Link?

The ABP/Split Pivot has the pivot on the wheel axle itself (concentric); the Horst Link has it on the chainstay, ahead of and below the axle. Both aim for active braking, but their geometry and response are not identical.

Quick answer

The Split Pivot (by Dave Weagle) and Trek's ABP are the same thing with a different name: a pivot concentric with the wheel axle. By separating the brake caliper from the axle's movement, the suspension stays active under braking (reduced anti-rise). The leverage ratio and anti-squat are set by the rest of the linkage. Used by Trek, Devinci and Salsa. It is one of the suspension systems.

Its trick is a single detail of location: putting the pivot exactly where the wheel rotates. And that detail changes how the bike feels under braking.

Why it brakes better

On many single pivots, braking compresses and "locks up" the suspension (high anti-rise). By putting the pivot concentric with the axle and mounting the caliper on the seatstay, the ABP partly decouples the brake force from the wheel's movement: the rear keeps soaking up bumps while you brake. That is the whole purpose of the system.

Pros and cons

For

Active braking with the simplicity of a single pivot/four-bar; very proven (Trek).

Against

Requires a reinforced thru-axle and fine machining; the axle path is still an arc.

Origin

Dave Weagle's Split Pivot patent; ABP is Trek's brand name.

Used by

Trek (Fuel EX, Slash, Top Fuel), Devinci, Salsa.

Don't confuse it with the Horst: the ABP/Split Pivot has the pivot on the axle (concentric); the Horst Link has it on the chainstay, ahead of and below the axle. Both aim for active braking, but they are not the same design.

Frequently asked questions

Is Split Pivot = ABP?

Yes, same concept, different name. Split Pivot is the patent; ABP is Trek's brand.

Vs Horst?

ABP: pivot on the axle (concentric). Horst: pivot on the chainstay, ahead of the axle. Different geometry.

Got a Trek or Devinci?

Tell us the model and we'll tell you its curve and setup. Message us on WhatsApp

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BikeLab-pedia · Suspension cluster / Suspension kinematics explained / Carlos Eduardo Ravello Joo · BikeLab Studio · Trujillo, Peru

Split Pivot / ABP: the pivot on the axle

Why it brakes better

Pros and cons

Frequently asked questions

Is Split Pivot = ABP?

Vs Horst?

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