Bontrager prototype full suspension frame

I was reminded of Bontrager frames today at work. Bontrager frames are sophisticated steel hardtails with gussets and smart things added on to the frame to keep it working and holding up but keep the weight low.

But Bontrager did also experiment with different materials and setups even after shutting down the frame production at Trek. I don't know if this frame is pre or post Trek (I suspect post), but it is an interesting concept trying to reduce the amount of pivots by using a flexible board over the bottom bracket (same principle as in the Slingshot frame I think). Maybe there was a reason this frame never showed up with a Bontrager (or Trek or Gary Fisher label).