Clem, fairly old pic of when I first thought of giving it a try, The back pivot point is off a mountain bike. The front shock is now air at 250psi. At the front of the mast post I have two plates welded to stop sideways movement. It has no effect on the rod steering. The best effect it eliminates sail shake and absorbs the bumps on a rough surface. Very happy with it. I have used it for five seasons now with no problems(except for the spring shock that failed after two seasons.)