KTM’s PDS (Progressive Damping System) and Husqvarna’s linkage system represent two distinct approaches to rear suspension design, each with its own set of advantages tailored to different riding styles and conditions.
KTM’s PDS System
The PDS system is unique in that it does not use a linkage, which is common in most dirt bikes. Instead, the shock absorber is directly connected from the swingarm to the frame, eliminating the need for a linkage assembly.
- Advantages:
- Simplicity and Weight: Without the additional components of a linkage, the PDS system is lighter and simpler, leading to reduced maintenance and fewer parts that could potentially wear out or break.
- Ground Clearance: The absence of a linkage means there’s less hardware hanging below the swingarm, which results in better ground clearance. This is particularly beneficial in rocky or rutted terrain where the risk of snagging or damaging a linkage is higher.
- Progressive Damping: The PDS shock is designed with a progressive damping curve, meaning it becomes stiffer as it compresses. This provides a plush feel over small bumps but firms up to prevent bottoming out on larger impacts.
- Disadvantages:
- Suspension Tuning: The PDS system is known for being more difficult to tune for a broad range of conditions. While it works well for technical and slower terrain, some riders find it less predictable at higher speeds or in whooped-out sections.
Husqvarna’s Linkage System
Husqvarna, while owned by KTM, chooses to use a traditional linkage system on their enduro bikes, a choice that reflects a different philosophy in suspension design.
- Advantages:
- Consistent Damping: The linkage system provides a more linear damping curve compared to PDS. This can result in more consistent and predictable suspension behavior across various terrains and riding conditions.
- Versatility: Many riders prefer linkage systems because they offer a better balance between plushness and bottoming resistance, making them more versatile for different types of riding, from technical enduro to high-speed desert racing.
- Suspension Tuning: The linkage allows for more nuanced adjustments, making it easier for riders to fine-tune their suspension setup to match their specific needs and preferences.
- Disadvantages:
- Maintenance: The linkage system is more complex and requires regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. This includes greasing and checking the bearings, which can add to the overall upkeep of the bike.
- Weight and Ground Clearance: The additional components of the linkage system add a bit more weight to the bike and can reduce ground clearance, increasing the likelihood of getting caught on obstacles in technical terrain.
Practical Implications
For most riders, the choice between PDS and linkage comes down to the type of riding they prefer:
- Technical Enduro Riders might prefer KTM’s PDS system due to its simplicity, reduced maintenance, and better ground clearance in challenging terrain.
- Versatile Riders or those who frequently tackle a variety of terrains might lean towards Husqvarna’s linkage system for its consistent damping and better tuning flexibility.
Both systems are highly capable and have been refined over the years, but the best choice depends on individual preferences and riding conditions. In Enduro Tours Sofia we are more used to the pds, and for our tours in Bulgaria we will be riding the newest models of KTM with their respective suspension system.
