Author: Andy Kemp
Published: April 15, 2015
These little items were the subject of some discussion at Monday night’s skills clinic. I’ve become a believer in dropper posts after many years of skepticism: I just didn’t believe that the benefits were that great, especially given the cost.
However practical experience converted me. I tested one and then rapidly acquired the highly-rated Rock Shox Reverb for 2 of my 3 bikes.
Here’s how riders in our group broke out on this topic:
Believers – “You’ve really, got to get one of these! They put you in the right position for technical sections and descents…”
Vs.
Traditionalists / Weight-Wienies – “Additional Weight!”; “Doing fine without it”
Vs.
Value Conscious – “Nice, but $400 or $500! Worth that kind of money?”
Some Considerations:
Function
Puts you in the ready position for increased stability, speed and control – as opposed to off the back or bucked forward on rough or steep sections
- Lots of positive racer testimonials on the web – even from die-hard XC folks
Weight
Reverb dropper post incremental weight – 300g/11.5 oz*
- This weight is worth carrying based on the superior function delivered (my opinion … I could easily lose 1lb of body weight to compensate)
- Not all weight is equal – if it were a 1lb added to wheel weight, I’d be more concerned…
- *Stats:
- Rock Shox Reverb weight – 520g -535g incl hose, remote etc.
- Reg seatposts weight range – 230g (carbon) -300g (avg aluminum)
Cost vs. Value
Even at $400 or $500, it may be a better value upgrade than anything except better wheels (e.g.,$600 on Stan’s Crest?) – if you’re riding a better than average bike build (MSRP >$3000)), it could be the best value upgrade.
Next Steps
See whether you can demo a teammate’s bike and see for yourself. Pick a nice fast, rough descent like Trail 5, 3 Bears or Hull’s.
If you’re convinced, you can find the Reverb and other highly rated brands at local bike stores.
OR:
At Chain Reaction, a large UK online retailer (I’ve bought 2 from there)
$269 -free shipping
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/us/en/rockshox-reverb-seatpost/rp-prod84856
For your consideration….
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