The Ins and Outs of a dropper post
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of hitting the trail on a mountainbike, and one of the best ways to get the most out of your experience is with a dropper post. But what exactly is a dropper post, and how do you get the most out of it?
What is a dropper post?
A dropper post is one of the key components for any mountain bike. It’s essentially an adjustable seat post that allows you to raise or lower your bike seat depending on the terrain. It’s especially useful when riding technical trails, allowing you to lower your seat for extra maneuverability when you’re going downhill.
When riding on mainly flat trails, you can raise the dropper post so you can get a more powerful and efficient sitting position when you’re pedaling. Dropper posts are also adjustable in terms of the travel or ‘drop’, meaning you can choose from a variety of heights to get the appropriate traction during descending and climbing.
So why would someone want a dropper post? Primarily because it allows you to experiment with different seating positions depending on the terrain. By quickly and effortlessly changing your riding position, you can increase your performance and riding comfort.
Benefits of a dropper post
When it comes to using a dropper post on a mountain bike, there are several benefits to consider.
The first obvious benefit is the fact that it provides you with the versatility to adjust your seating position on the fly. This is crucial when it comes to tackling technical sections. When you’re descending, you can lower your seat so you can have improved control and maneuverability over the terrain. On the other hand, when you’re climbing, you can raise your seat to get a more efficient and powerful pedaling position.
Another clear benefit of using a dropper post is the huge increase in safety. With a dropper post, you can quickly and easily respond to any obstacles or changes in terrain by adjusting your seating position. By doing this you can immediately adjust your center of gravity, providing yourself with the necessary stability and balance to stay safe.
Types of dropper post
Now that we’ve established why you should consider getting a dropper post, let’s look at the different types available.
The first type of dropper post is the mechanical dropper post. This type of post is operated manually by use of either a cable or a lever. It’s the cheaper of the two types and can be easily adjusted. The downside of this type of dropper post is that you have to take your hands off the handlebars when adjusting it, reducing your control and safety.
The second type of dropper post is hydraulic dropper post. This type is operated by a piston that pulls the post up or down via remote, usually attached to the handlebars. This type of dropper post is much smoother to operate and you don’t have to take your hands off the handlebars when making adjustments. But one drawback of this type is that they can be quite expensive.
How to Choose a dropper post
When it comes to choosing a dropper post, the most important thing is to choose one that is well suited to your specific needs.
The first thing to consider is the type of dropper post you want to get. If you’re a beginner, then a mechanical dropper post would be a great start. They’re cheaper and easier to use. On the other hand, if you’re a more experienced mountain biker, then a hydraulic dropper post might be a better choice.
The second thing to consider is the travel or ‘drop’. The travel refers to the distance between the highest and lowest points of the dropper post. When it comes to dropper posts, more travel generally equates to more comfort and control. So if you’re riding a lot of technical terrain, then it’s worth investing in a dropper post with a longer travel.
Lastly, it’s important to measure your seat tube size before investing in a dropper post. Measurements like this will determine how compatible the post is with your frame.
Conclusion
There’s no denying that a dropper post can enhance your overall experience when riding on a mountain bike. With the right type of dropper post, you can quickly and easily adjust your seating position depending on the terrain. It also increases your safety on the trails, as you can respond quickly and easily to changes in terrain.
When it comes to choosing the best dropper post, it’s important to think about your