Dropper posts have revolutionized the mountain biking experience. A dropper post is a replacement for your bicycle’s seat post that can be adjusted to different heights without needing you to get off your bike. This allows the rider to lower the saddle when descending for extra control and traction and then raise it back up again when pedaling on flat or climbing terrain. Dropper posts can be an invaluable piece of equipment for mountain bikers, offering improved performance and safety on both climbs and descents.
Here is a guide to the best dropper post options on the market. After testing several different models, we have narrowed it down to our top 3 favorites. We will also provide a buyer’s guide explaining factors to consider while choosing a dropper post such as travel, actuation type, diameter, and minimum insertion depth. After reading this guide, you will be convinced that adding a dropper post to your ride is an investment worth making!
Best Dropper Post of 2023 | Top Picks
After talking to many different types of bikers and testing their suggested products, we have finally listed our top 3 picks. Are they worth your money? Let’s find out.
In-Depth Review of Best Dropper Post
Here is an In-depth review of the best dropper post:-
1. Cascade Dropper Seatpost
The Cascade dropper post is a great choice for riders who want a reliable dropper post with various travel options. With 125, 150, and 170mm of travel to choose from, you can find the right amount of drop for your bike. The sealed alloy cartridge is lightweight and durable, and the external cable routing keeps your cables clean and tidy and makes installation super easy. The Cascade wireless dropper post also comes with a lifetime warranty. So you can ride with confidence, knowing that your post is backed by a company that stands behind its products.
2. Satori PRO Dropper Post Mountain Bike
The Satori PRO is a dropper seatpost compatible with internal routing remote control only. It comes in various sizes to choose from, including a diameter: of 31.6mm and a travel: of 150mm. The post also has a smooth-operating hydraulics system that makes it easy to adjust the saddle’s height. Does not matter if you have one of the best mountain bikes under 1000 or a more expensive pick, this dropper post will handle your bike efficiently.
This dropper post MTB is made from 3D forged alloy 6061, which makes it both strong and light, and it comes with a 2-year warranty. The remote adjustment feature allows you to adjust the post without having to dismount, and the non-air adjustable design means you don’t have to worry about pump pressure or leaking.
3. PNW Components Pine 27.2mm Dropper Post
The PNW Components Pine 27.2mm dropper post is a brand new design that offers a 100g weight reduction over similar posts on the market. The post is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand years of hard riding. Best of all, this 27.2 dropper post comes with a lifetime warranty, ensuring that you will be able to enjoy its performance for years to come.
The post has a total travel of 100mm, making it ideal for use on cross-country or enduro bikes. It also features a convenient trigger lever that can be mounted on either the left or right side of the handlebar. The Pine dropper post is ready to take your riding to the next level with an updated chassis and internals. So don’t wait any longer; order yours today!
Where to Buy Best Dropper Post?
One option is to purchase it from an online website. This can be a convenient option because you can often find good deals and have the post shipped directly to your home. However, it can be difficult to know which websites are offering good prices and which ones sell high-quality products.
E-commerce sites such as Amazon can be a good option because you can read customer reviews before making a purchase. However, you will likely have to pay shipping costs.
Another option is to visit your local bike shop. Bike shops typically carry a limited selection of dropper posts, but the staff should be able to help you find the right one for your bike.
If you are willing to do a bit of research, buying online can be a great way to get a good deal on a quality product. On the other hand, if you prefer the convenience of trying and buying, then buy offline through local bike shops.
Finding The Best Dropper Post | Buying Guide
Length
Most dropper seatposts come in lengths ranging from 100mm to 170mm. The length you need will depend on your frame size and riding style. For example, if you have a small frame or ride mostly downhill, you will need a longer dropper post. Note that, you will need different dropper posts for different bikes. If you have a fat tire bike, then go for a dropper post designed for the same.
Amount of Travel
Travel refers to how far down the dropper post can be inserted into the frame. Most dropper posts have between 50mm and 150mm of travel.
Mechanical vs Hydraulic
Hydraulic dropper posts are actuated by a dropper post lever that is connected to a hydraulic piston. While mechanical dropper posts use a cable to actuate a mechanical locking mechanism. Hydraulic dropper posts are generally considered more reliable since they don’t rely on cables that can get frayed or jammed over time. However, they are also more expensive than mechanical dropper posts.
Remote-actuated or Trigger-actuated
Remote-actuated dropper posts are more common because they are easier to reach while riding. However, trigger-actuated dropper posts can be preferable for riders with limited hand mobility or who prefer not to take their hands off the handlebars while riding.
Internal or External Routing
Internal routing is when the cable is routed through the frame of the bike, while external routing is when the cable is routed outside of the frame. There are benefits and drawbacks to both options. Internal routing is generally more aesthetically pleasing, resulting in a cleaner look for the bike. However, it can be more difficult to service and adjust, as the cables are not as accessible. External routing is generally easier to service and adjust but may not be as visually appealing.
Also, check if the routing will be safe on a hitch mount bike rack because many users complain that external routing gets hampered the racks during long journeys.
Warranty Offered by the Manufacturer
Some manufacturers offer limited warranties that cover only defects in materials or craft. While others offer full warranties that cover any damages incurred during normal use. It’s important to read through the fine print of any warranty before making your purchase.
Compare Prices from Different Retailers
Dropper posts can range in price from $150 to $900, depending on the brand, model, material, and features. Compare prices from different retailers before making your final purchase.
Read Online Reviews from Other Riders
Once you have narrowed down your choices, take some time to read online reviews from other riders who have purchased and used similar products. This can give you some valuable insights into which products are worth your money.
Some Last Words
A dropper post can be a valuable addition to your mountain biking kit. They make it easier to get your bike in the right position for optimum performance and can help you conquer even the most challenging trails. We have looked at the 3 best dropper posts on the market and provided you with a detailed buying guide. So, if you are in search of a new reliable dropper post, be sure to check out our recommendations.
See Also - best full suspension mountain bike under 2000
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is a Dropper post?
A dropper post is a type/replacement of bicycle seatpost that can be lowered or raised without having to get off the bike. This makes them ideal for mountain biking, where you often need to adjust your saddle height mid-ride. Most dropper posts have multiple positions, so you can lower or raise the saddle to suit the terrain. Some models even have a lock-out feature, which prevents the post from moving inadvertently while riding on smooth surfaces.
Q2. How does dropper post work?
Most dropper posts use a lever that is mounted on the handlebars, making it easy to adjust the saddle height on the go. To lower the saddle, you simply push down on the lever. This releases the air from the post, causing it to collapse. To raise the saddle, you simply lift your weight off the post and push the lever. The seat will then return to its original position.
Q3. How to use a dropper post?
Following are the steps to use a dropper post:
- First, make sure that your dropper post is properly installed and that the saddle is correctly positioned.
- Next, find a comfortable position on the saddle and pedal at a moderate speed.
- When you are ready to lower the saddle, push down on the lever located near the handlebars. This will release air from the post, lowering the saddle.
- To raise the saddle, simply pull up on the lever.
Q4. What size dropper post do I need?
Just measure the distance from your seatpost collar to your seat rail (highest setting or climbing setting) and subtract 50mm from that number. The number you get as the result is the maximum travel length dropper post you can run conveniently.
