Bicycles are disclosed which include a rear wheel suspension system. The
rear wheel suspension of the present bicycles are designed to move an
instant center to track a chain torque line of the bicycle and generally
improve performance of the bicycles. In certain embodiments, the rear
wheel suspension system includes a shock absorber apparatus attached to
the main frame of the bicycle. In additional embodiments, the shock
absorber apparatus includes a bell crank or a rotary torsion spring.
Embodiments are also described which include a gear box. Methods of
improving bicycle performance by tracking a chain torque line with an
instant center are also disclosed.