A bicycle fork assembly designed to reduce the transfer of vibrations to the
rider.
This is accomplished by providing a damping member (e.g., made of a molded elastomer)
that completely surrounds the outer surface of a fork member. Preferably, the damping
member is in tension when mounted on the fork member such that the damping member
compresses the fork member to thereby reduce transmission of vibrations through
the fork. In addition, the fork member can be provided with a necked portion that
receives the damping member. Preferably, the damping member is positioned closer
to the fork tip than to the fork crown. The damping member can comprise two portions
having different colors, durometers, and densities. Preferably, the damping member
is formed separate from the fork member, and subsequently slid onto the outer surface
of the fork member. Alternatively, the damping member could be molded in place
on the fork member.