How to choose the right MTB dropper post: Choosing the right mountain bike (MTB) dropper post involves several considerations to ensure it fits your bike and meets your riding needs. Here’s a guide to help you select the right dropper post:
1. Determine Seatpost Diameter
- Measure Your Seat Tube: Check the diameter of your current seat post. Common diameters are 27.2mm, 30.9mm, 31.6mm, and 34.9mm. Make sure the dropper post matches this measurement.
2. Choose the Dropper Post Travel
- Travel Length: This is the distance the saddle can be lowered, or the total up and down drop. Travel lengths range from 100mm to 200mm. Select based on your riding style and frame size:
- Shorter Travel (100-125mm): Suitable for smaller frames or cross-country (XC) riding.
- Medium Travel (150-170mm): Ideal for trail and all-mountain riding.
- Longer Travel (180-200mm): Best for enduro and downhill riding, where maximum drop is beneficial.
3. Actuation Type
- Mechanical (Cable-Actuated): Reliable and easier to maintain. Suitable for most riders.
- Hydraulic: Smoother operation but can be more complex to install and maintain.
- Electronic: High-end option with wireless control, such as the RockShox Reverb AXS.
4. Remote Lever Ergonomics
- Placement: Ensure the remote lever is easily reachable. Test different lever designs to find one that’s comfortable and intuitive.
- Compatibility: Check if the lever is compatible with your handlebar setup, especially if you use other handlebar-mounted controls.
5. Dropper Post Length
- Insertion Depth: Measure your seat tube’s maximum insertion depth to ensure the dropper post can be fully inserted without obstruction.
- Overall Length: Ensure the overall length of the dropper post fits your frame, especially if you have a smaller frame size.
6. Routing
- Internal Routing: Cables are hidden within the frame, giving a clean look but may require a frame with specific internal routing capabilities.
- External Routing: Easier to install and maintain, though cables are visible on the outside of the frame.
It’s important to check whether your bike accepts internal or external cable routing. Most modern mountain bikes allow for internal cable routing, but that isn’t always the case. The good news is that if your bike does not allow for internal cable routing, most of the popular dropper posts are offered with an external cable routing option.
7. Weight
- Consider the Weight: Dropper posts can add significant weight. For competitive riders, every gram counts, so consider the weight in your selection.
8. Budget
- Price Range: Dropper posts range from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Balance your needs with your budget to find the best value. For example, the hydraulic Loam Dropper Post from PNW Components retails for $279.95CAD, while the electronic Rockshox Reverb AXS Dropper Post retails for $904CAD.
9. Brand and Reviews
- Reputable Brands: Look for reliable brands known for their quality and durability, such as RockShox, Fox, and PNW Components.
- User Reviews: Read reviews and seek recommendations from other riders to gauge reliability and performance.
10. Maintenance and Support
- Ease of Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to service the dropper post. Some models are more user-friendly for home mechanics.
- Warranty and Support: Check the manufacturer’s warranty and availability of spare parts.
Recommended Steps:
- Measure your seat tube diameter and insertion depth.
- Decide on the amount of travel based on your riding style.
- Choose the type of actuation and remote lever placement.
- Consider internal vs. external cable routing based on your frame.
- Set a budget and look for reviews on different models.
Looking for a dropper post? We carry dropper posts from PNW Components and you can shop our full selection here. Remember that we offer free shipping on all orders over $149CAD within North America. We process and ship all orders within 24 business hours as well.
Spend less and ride the best with TBS Bike Parts.
Related Articles
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MTB BRAKE
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MTB SADDLE
5 REASONS YOU SHOULD USE TUBELESS MTB INSERTS
