I think what you are refering to is a variable platform. The few FS bikes I rode ( all GF) had different options from full lockout (more like a hard tail) to full open ( max use of motion and a varied setting that acted "stiffer" until it hit something hard /big enough to cause the unit to react. Some (rear shocks) have all or some of these adjustment. I don't have enough experience to know if full lockout will duplicatee a HARD TAIL EXACTLY BUT THE SUGER AND CAKE i RODE (sorry) both had the lock out feature and it seemed damn close. I am fairly light though............