What is the difference between DW-link and VPP?

The rotation direction of the links. The DW-link rotates them in the same direction (co-rotating); the VPP in opposite directions (counter-rotating). That changes how the instant centre moves and therefore the anti-squat and the axle path. They are not interchangeable even though both use two short links.

Why does the DW-link pedal so well?

Because its anti-squat is designed to be high and stable right in the sag zone (where you pedal) and to drop afterwards (where you don't), which reduces pedal bob without needing a lockout and keeps pedal kickback low on deep hits.

DW-link: what it is and why it pedals so well

Quick answer

The DW-link (by Dave Weagle) uses two short links that rotate in the same direction (co-rotating). Its signature is anti-squat that's high and stable in the sag zone and drops afterwards: that's why it pedals firm with no need for a lockout and with little pedal kickback. Used by Ibis and Pivot. It is not the same as the VPP, which rotates the links the other way. It is one of the dual-link systems.

If your bike climbs as if the lockout were on but descends loose, it's probably a DW-link. And the key to all of it is the direction in which two links rotate.

What makes it special

Dave Weagle designed the DW-link around one idea: anti-squat must be high where you pedal and low where you don't. That's why the curve starts with a high "tableland" near sag (firmness while pedalling) and then drops as it sinks (so kickback doesn't bother you deep in the travel). The two co-rotating links are the way to achieve that movement of the instant centre.

Pros and cons

For

Leading pedalling efficiency without lockouts; climbing traction; low kickback on big hits.

Against

Short links sensitive to tolerances; more demanding manufacturing and maintenance.

Inventor

Dave Weagle (patent US7128329B2).

Used by

Ibis (Ripmo), Pivot (Switchblade, Mach), under licence.

The internet's #1 confusion: "DW-link, VPP and Maestro are the same". No. All three use two links, but the VPP rotates them in opposite directions and the DW-link and the Maestro in the same direction. That detail changes the anti-squat and the axle path. We break it down in the full comparison.

Frequently asked questions

DW-link vs VPP?

The rotation direction of the links: DW-link co-rotating (same direction), VPP counter-rotating (opposite). It changes anti-squat and axle path.

Why does it pedal so well?

High, stable anti-squat at sag that drops afterwards: firm while pedalling, loose deep in the travel, no lockout.

Got an Ibis or Pivot?

Tell us the model and we'll tell you its curve and the setup that makes the most of it. Message us on WhatsApp

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BikeLab-pedia · Suspension cluster / Suspension kinematics explained / Carlos Eduardo Ravello Joo · BikeLab Studio · Trujillo, Peru

DW-link: why it pedals so well

What makes it special

Pros and cons

Frequently asked questions

DW-link vs VPP?

Why does it pedal so well?

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