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What is a Swing Arm?

A swing arm is part of a dirtbike or ATV’s rear suspension. It bridges the gap between the frame of the vehicle and its rear wheel or wheels. The swing arm allows for horizontal movement, which offers a number of advantages.

A properly functioning swing arm benefits you and your off-road vehicle. The horizontal pivot action it provides helps to reduce the effects of bumps, dips, and other small obstacles in your path. That places less strain on the vehicle frame.

By reducing the impact on the frame, the swing arm also protects you as a rider. With the right swing arm in place, you can count on fewer aches and pains as compared to an off-road vehicle with a fully rigid frame.

You may see a swing arm referred to in writing as one word: swingarm. Discussions and product listings may also use more specific terms or talk about more than just the swing arm itself, like an ATV rear swing arm assembly.

A (Very Brief) History of Swing Arms

The swing arm was originally developed for early motorcycles in the 1910s, as Cycle World explains. They took some time to catch on, however. Factors like the poor conditions of many roads in that era limited their spread. Poor roads meant rigid frames were much more popular due to their durability.

However, the value of swingarms was more broadly recognized as time went on and their benefits became clearer. They were more widely adopted in the middle of the 20th century. Now, they’re common not only for many types of on-road motorcycles, but for off-road vehicles as well.

Your Source for ATV and Dirt Bike Swing Arms

When you shop Coolster’s range of replacement dirt bike and ATV swing arms and parts, you can count on quality, durability, and consistency. Find our currently available products right here, and check out our other replacement part options to make sure your off-roading vehicle is back in riding shape.