How to Use the Adjustable Bridges on a DMM Kinisi Max

The DMM Kinisi Max Saddle features a unique double bridge setup with patented cams for precise adjustment. DMM Technical Representative Taylor Hamel demonstrates a few of the ways arborists can use an adjustable bridge to make tree climbing easier, including ascent, work positioning, and cutting on a spar.

Hi, I’m Taylor with DMM, and today I want to talk about the DMM Kinisi Max Harness—specifically the adjustable bridge system and how it can make your work in the tree easier and more efficient.

One of the main advantages of an adjustable bridge is the ability to make quick, precise adjustments without tying and re-tying knots. If you don’t like where the bridge length is set, simply adjust it longer or shorter. The bridge adjuster mechanism is designed so that the stopper knots aren’t under heavy load, which means they’re easy to untie. That makes swapping components—like removing or adding a ring—fast and simple.

Beyond small tweaks, the system also allows for major adjustments. For example, shortening the bridge shifts more inward force onto the forward D-rings. This changes how pressure is distributed across your hips and waist. That setup can be especially useful during ascent. When climbing on a single rope, a short bridge keeps your device lower and makes walking up the rope easier. Once you’re in the canopy, you can extend the bridge again for more freedom of movement.

When climbing on a moving rope system, extending the bridge allows longer pulls when body thrusting. With the bridge fully lengthened, you can reach underneath the pulley, tend slack smoothly, and get powerful long strokes. Once in position, you can shorten the bridge again for better work positioning when moving out along the limbs.

A short bridge also helps when working on a stem. Being able to shorten the bridge tightly brings you closer to your cutting position, giving you more stability and control when making precise cuts.

In general, adjustable bridges keep your hitch or climbing system within easy reach. For example, when you’re way out on a long limb walk, a shortened bridge keeps your hitch accessible without needing to stretch uncomfortably.

Another advantage is when you’re positioned at the edge of the canopy with a flat rope angle. By extending a second adjustable bridge with a sling and carabiner, you can create a two-point attachment. This adds stability, frees up both hands, and makes working at difficult angles safer and more comfortable.

Finally, having two independently adjustable bridges is extremely useful for advanced techniques like the add-in prusik method when bypassing a limb. With your lanyard in place for security, you can adjust one bridge, bypass the obstacle, and stay tied in at all times.

The DMM Kinisi Max Harness with adjustable bridge system gives you the flexibility to fine-tune your setup for ascent, work positioning, canopy movement, and advanced climbing techniques.

You can purchase the DMM Kinisi Max Harness with this unique adjustable bridge system today at Sherrilltree.com.