Exploring mountain bike with dropper post: A Review
Exploring the great outdoors with friends and family can be one of the most rewarding and pleasurable experiences known to mankind. With the invention of the mountain bike, the allure of scaling peaks and trails previously inaccessible has never been more accessible. One of the monumental developments to grow out of the modern mountain bike industry is the addition of the dropper post — an advanced suspension component which significantly improves the ride and performance of the bike. In this review we’ll explore mountain bike with dropper post, covering the features, benefits, and drawbacks of the suspension component as well as other considerations.
What is the Dropper Post?
The dropper post is a unique suspension component developed from years of research and innovation within the mountain biking industry. The dropper post enables riders to adjust the height of their saddle to different heights while maintaining an effective suspension travel range. This enables riders to adjust the height of their saddle to match the terrain they’re riding at any given time.
The Benefits of Having a Dropper Post on Your Mountain Bike
The dropper post is, without a doubt, one of the most beneficial additions to any mountain bike setup. Not only does it allow riders to maintain the same effective suspension travel range in different terrains, but also helps increase overall riding efficiency and control.
For steep climbs, the rider is able to lower the saddle height, allowing them to generate more power with their entire body while maintaining a better center of gravity on the bike. This not only makes for a more efficient climb but also helps to reduce fatigue on the rider throughout the climb.
For technical downhills, the dropper post allows for increased stability and control of the bike. By providing riders with the ability to quickly and easily adjust their saddle height, they can make small adjustments to the attitude of their bike on the fly, providing increased levels of control and rider input. This is especially helpful when dealing with tight trails and sharp turns where minimal adjustments are essential in navigating a successful line.
In addition, the dropper post helps to reduce arm fatigue as the rider can drop their saddle height when riding around flat corners, saving their arms energy when they need for pulling stunts. This is also beneficial for riders who are looking for a more comfortable ride, as the dropper post helps to ensure a more ergonomic riding position for the rider.
Drawbacks of the Dropper Post
While the dropper post can offer many benefits for the rider, it is worth noting that there are some drawbacks. One of the primary drawbacks is that dropper posts can be quite expensive. It is not unheard of for a quality dropper post to cost upwards of $500. In addition, the dropper post requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure that it continues to perform to its expected standards.
Finally, the added weight of a dropper post adds significant weight to the bike. While this may not be an issue for novice and recreational riders, more advanced riders may be put off by the added weight. For this reason, many racing and serious mountain biking will opt for lighter suspension components.
Final Considerations for Choosing a Dropper Post for Your Mountain Bike
The decision to add a dropper post to your mountain bike should not be taken lightly. As with any major purchase, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of the dropper post before making a purchase.
For novice and recreational riders, the dropper post is almost a given. However, more experienced riders may want to opt for lighter weight suspension components.
Regardless, it is important to consider that the dropper post is a significant investment. Therefore, it is important to do enough research and check reviews before purchasing a dropper post, so that you make the right decision for your particular needs.