One of the biggest improvements from my old Mongoose to my new Specialized was the fact that the Fuse came with a dropper post. I had been going back and forth on whether or not to get one to upgrade my Mongoose with.
While I have now ridden my Specialized for a couple of years, I am looking to rebuild and upgrade my old Mongoose bike to use it as a spare for myself or any of my friends who come by to ride my backyard trail.
In researching this task I created a complete buyers guide that I used to help me with my decision and hopefully help you with yours.
25 Dropper posts with detailed specs
Below is a table with detailed specs on 25 different droppers I reviewed during this process. Click on the Dropper name to link out to either JensonUSA or CompetitiveCyclists to get some additional details.
Further down in this post you will also find some additional details on each of the dropper posts in this list.
| Dropper | Brand | Weight (post only) | Recommended Use | Manufacturer Warranty | Length (mm) | Lever included | Offset(mm) | Travel (mm) | Diameters (mm) | Routing | Price |
| Kindshock | 631g (100mm, 30.9) | Trail | 385/410/445 | Yes (seatpost) | 20 | 100/125 | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 | External | $94.50 | ||
| PNW Components | 590g | Trail, XC, All-Mountain | 3 year | 406 | No | 0 | 125 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $129.00 | |
| PNW Components | Trail, All-mountain, Enduro | 3 year | 420/464/494 | No | 0 | 125/150/170mm | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $134.99 | ||
| Kindshock | Road, Cyclocross and Gravel | 2 years | 420 | Yes | 0 | 35/50 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $139.99 | ||
| Kindshock | 628g (150mm, 31.6) | Trail, All Mountain | 370/425/480 | No | 0 | 100/125/150 | 30.9 / 31.6 | External | $170.10 | ||
| PNW Components | 674g (170mm, 30.9) | cross-country, enduro, trail | 3 year | 406/449/489 | No | 0 | 125/150/170 | 30.9 / 31.6 | External | $179.00 | |
| PNW Components | 640g (200mm) | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro, DH | 3 year | 393/443/483/543 | No | 0 | 125/150/170/200 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $179.00 | |
| Coast Suspension | PNW Components | 607g (120mm) | Gravel, Trail, Cyclocross | 3 year | 3805400 | No | 100/120 | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.66 | Interal / External | $179.00 | |
| KS E301 | Kindshock | 640g (150mm) | Trail | 300/320/390/430/435/485 | No | 0 | 65/75/100/120/125/150 | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $188.10 | |
| CrankBrothers Highline | Crankbrothers | 565g (125mm, 30.9) | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro, DH | 2 years | 465mm (170mm) | No | 0 | 80/100/125/170mm | 30.9/31.6/34.9 | Internal | $199.00 |
| OneUp Dropper | OneUp | 435g (120mm, 30.9) | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro | 2 years | 345/405/465/525 | No | 120/150/180/210 | 30.9/31.6 | Internal | $199.00 | |
| Pine 27.2 | PNW Components | 530g (110mm, 27.2) | cross-country | 3 year | 355/400 | No | 90/110 | 27.2 | External | $199.00 | |
| PRO Koryak | PRO | Mountain bike | lifetime | 400 | Yes | 120 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $199.00 | ||
| X-Fusion Manic | X-Fusion Manic | 630g (150mm) | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro, XC | 421/454 | Yes | 0 | 125/150 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $199.00 | |
| e*thirteen TRS+ | e*thirteen | 570g (150mm) | Trail, Enduro, All-Mountain | 405/485/498 | Yes | 0 | 125/150/170mm | 30.9/31.6 | Internal | $238.00 | |
| Race Face Turbine R | Race Face | 577g (125mm, 30.9) | Cross-country, enduro, trail | 1 year | 356/406/456 | No | 0 | 100/125/150 | 30.9/31.6 | Internal | $240.00 |
| Tellis | SDG Components | 712g (170mm) | Cross-country, Enduro, Trail | 2 year | 390/440 | Yes | 125/150 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $249.99 | |
| Transfer Porformance Series | Fox Racing Shox | 640g (175mm) | All-Mountain | 1 year | 361/411/461 | No | 100/125/150 | 30.9 / 31.6 | External? | $264.99 | |
| KS LEV SI | KS | 562g (31.6mm) | trail | 295/300/345/350/395/400/415/445/450/465 | No | 0 | 75/100/125/150/175 | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9 | Internal | $280.00 | |
| PRO Koryak | PRO | 668g (150mm, 31.6) / | cross-country, enduro, gravel, trail | lifetime | 400 | Yes | 150/170 | 31.6 | External | $299.00 | |
| FOX Transfer Performance Elite | Fox Racing Shox | Trail, All-Mountain, XC | 308.6/363.5/418.3/475.1 | No | 0 | 100/125/150/175 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $299.00 | ||
| Transfer Factory Series | Fox Racing Shox | 633g (175mm) | mountain bike | 1 year | 356/406/456 | No | 100/125/150 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $350.00 | |
| KS LEV Integra | KS | 546g (31.6mm) | Trail, All-Mountain | 300/340/375/390/410/440/460/490 | Yes | 0 | 65/80/100/120/125/150/175 | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $350.00 | |
| LEV Carbon | Kindshock | 419g (65mm) | Trail | 400 | Yes | 0 | 65 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $386.25 | |
| Rockshox Reverb Stealth | Rockshox | 545g (100mm, 30.9) | Trail, XC, All-Mountain | 301/351/414/519.5 | Yes | 0 | 100/125/150/170mm | 30.9/31.6/34.9 | Internal | $399.00 | |
| Covert Elite | Thompson | 751g (125mm) | All-Mountain | 2 year | 375/400/450 | No | 5 | 100/125/150 | 30.9 / 31.6 | Internal | $479.95 |
| Reverb AXS | RockShox | 830g (170mm) | cross-country, enduro, trail | 2 year | 340/390/440/480 | Yes | 0 | 100/125/150/170 | 30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9 | Wireless | $800.00 |
How to select the right Dropper Post
There are several key factors to take into account when selecting your new dropper post. These include Sizing, routing, type of post you are looking for, and type of lever you want.
Familiarize yourself with the following criteria and you will be able to determine the best dropper post for your needs. So let’s dig into these items.
Sizing your Dropper Post
There are three key sizing points to pay attention to when determining which dropper is right for your ride. The measurements you should be looking at are the overall travel, the overall length, and the diameter of the dropper post.
If you get an incorrect measurement in any of these areas then you won’t end up with the right fit and you will only be wasting time and money. So this is where you need to take the time to make sure you get it right before committing to a purchase.
Determining how much travel you want
The whole function of your dropper post is to drop down and get out of the way when needed. The amount of travel in your dropper will determine how low it can go, obviously, but there is more to think of than that.
For example, with my current setup, my Specialized Fuse came with 120mm of travel on the dropper. My height and riding style actually has me riding at 170 mm from the top of the seat post tube.
This leaves me hanging with 50 mm of additional spacing between the top of the seat post and frame when fully compressed. Because this is the case, I was still finding myself snagging the seat while on the trail.
By switching out to the 170mm dropper post, I have a lot more adjustability in my bike throughout the ride.
If your height and riding style has you comfortable at a seat height is 120 mm then there is no sense in purchasing and/or riding with more travel.
More travel isn’t essentially better for your setup. Size does matter, but its about proper sizing.
Dropper Post Diameter
The diameter of the dropper comes based on your bikes frames and/or the current seat post. As you see in the image below, my current seat post is @ 30.9 mm.
The two main sizes are 30.9 and 31.6 mm but there are s few occasions you will find 27.2 and 34.9 mm diameters. In some instances, you get shims with your post for slight adjustments when needed.
In my case, my Mongoose is running a 27.2 mm diameter seat post where my Specialized Fuse 30.9 mm diameter seat post. This will not allow me to swap between the two when and if I wanted.
Although my frames are different sizes, this isn’t something likely to happen but it is something to think about if you have multiple bikes. While it might not be the easiest thing to do, it still leaves you some options instead of having to grab a different dropper for each bike.
Determining the proper length of your dropper post
While the travel of the dropper is important in function, the overall length of the dropper is key its compatibility with your mountain bike. If the overall length of the dropper post is too long then you won’t have the right fit for your riding needs.
This is more critical in bikes where the tube isn’t a straight shot and on some bikes this is more noticeable than on other bikes. My Specialized Fuse for example has a slight bend in the seat tube.
DROPPER POST ROUTING TYPE
The dropper post routing type is easy to identify, the biggest thing is what your bike is set up for and how thick your wallet is.
Bikes are either setup for internal routing or they aren’t. If your bike is isn’t setup for internal routing then you still have options and can run the externally routed dropper post.
In either setup, if you are willing to splurge you could go wireless. There are several options that are out there.
INTERNAL ROUTING
If your bike is like mine it comes setup for running an internally routed dropper. This will be the case on most high end and modern bikes.
If your bike is set up for running internally but doesn’t have a dropper post in it already your going to want to grab a cable routing tool to help you get it in place with as little cursing as possible.
If your looking for the Park Tool Cable routing kit you can find it here JensonUSA or you can grab the Pro Internal Routing Tool @ Competitive Cyclists.
For those who don’t have the capability of running internally or don’t want to deal with the headache of trying to properly run the cables internally there is always the option to run it externally.
EXTERNAL ROUTING
For those looking to upgrade their bike with a dropper post that don’t have the right frame for running internally. If your frame isn’t equipped, don’t go drilling to make it that way.
There are many different options out there for running externally and if you line up the wiring with that of your rear brakes and/or shifter cables you could almost make it stealthy enough for yourself.
That will be my goal when upgrading the old Mongoose and will update this post with photos when I get around to it.
One of the biggest pro’s of running the Externally routed dropper posts is that it is much easier to install and maintain than the internally routed setups.
ELECTRONIC (NO ROUTING)
If your wallet will accommodate there are electronic droppers out there that will eliminate the cluttered look of the external and the pain of running the internally routed post.
For around $800 you can pick up the ROCKSHOX REVER AXS seatpost which comes with a 1 hour charge time or you could settle for the Magura Vyron Ellect for around $400 which has a 3 hour charge time.
Either option gives you a little more freedom to swap the dropper easily between bikes so long as they have the same diameter and length requirements.
DROPPER POST TYPES
There are two specific types of dropper posts available out there and they are similar to that of the your brake and shifter cables. These are cable driven and hydraulically driven.
DROPPER POST LEVER STYLES
There are two styles of levers that can be set up with the dropper post that you are looking to install. These two types are typically identified as 1x or 2x levers.
This aligns with the drivetrain on your bike and that simply means if you are running a 1x(10,11,12) setup you would be wanting to get a 1x lever. However, you could run a 2x lever on any driveline setup.
1x Style Dropper Post Levers
When running a system with a single chainring, the 1x lever is set up to run similar to that of the drive train with a front shifter. In other words, it runs parallel to that of the handlebar.
In my opinion this is the most comfortable setup to run as I have run both. I had broke my original lever and picked up a PNW 2x lever locally for $20 not knowing the difference at the time.
2x Style Dropper Levers
If you are have a shifter for your front deraliur, you can’t really run the 1x style lever because there just isn’t enough room. This is where the vertical setup of the 2x style lever comes into play.
While the functionality is the same, the feel is totally different.
DROPPER POST COST BREAKDOWN
There are various options of dropper posts out there and below is a grouping breakdown of the various pricing categories and some additional detail for the droppers in the category.
Under $150
This is the most budget-friendly category. In my research of and the dropper posts that fall into this category are The Ridge, the Cascade, Rainier Gen 2, PRO Koryak, KS Zeta, and the KS ETEN.
$95
The eTen comes in diameters of 27.2, 30.9 and 31.6 but only comes in one travel option of 100mm. According to reviews, the budget-friendly options is well worth the value with reasonably smooth operation.
There were complaints however in the amount of offset and the single-bolt saddle clamp. Another note was that the actuator is open to the elements and opens the eTen to failure.
Currently you can grab the dropper on Competitive Cyclist for around $95.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Kindshock |
| Weight (post only) | 631g (100mm, 30.9) |
| Recommended Use | Trail |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 years |
| Length (mm) | 385/410/445 |
| Lever Included? | Yes (seatpost) |
| Offset(mm) | 20 |
| Travel (mm) | 65/75/100/125 |
| Diameters (mm) | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | External |
| Price | $94.50 |
$129
PNW’s Ridge Solo dropper is one of the more wallet-friendly options. While it only comes with 125 mm of travel for your standard 30.9 and 31.6 mm diameters, it is set up for internal routing for a nice clean look.
The price however does not include the lever and that is something to think about. The Ridge Solo dropper comes with a 3 year warranty. The design of the Ridge consists of a hydraulic cartridge with a coil spring.
Currently, the dropper is available on Jenson USA’s site for $129.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | 590g |
| Recommended Use | Trail, XC, All-Mountain |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year |
| Length (mm) | 406 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 125 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | External |
| Price | $129.00 |
$134.99
The Rainier Gen 2 also comes in your standard 30.9 and 31.66 mm diameters with travel ranges of 125, 150, and 170 mm. This dropper, however, is set up for internal routing at its mid-cap and uses a coil spring system.
The 150 and 170 mm travel options have been made stiffer and lighter with larger diameter stanchions. The addition of the DU bushing combats the seat wobble.
As with all PNW Droppers it comes with a 3 year warranty. It doesn’t come with a lever but that gives you the ability to mix and match with what fits your style and needs.
The Rainier Gen 2 also comes with infinite Adjustment which allows you to choose the right position for your riding style and trail conditions.
Depending on the website you are seeing them on you might see them labeled as Rainier IR V2 but on the PNW Component website they are labeled as Rainier Gen 2 which is the similar to the Gen 3.
Currently the can be found on JensonUSA for around $135.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-mountain, Enduro |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year |
| Length (mm) | 420/464/494 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 125/150/170 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $134.99 |
Brand X $135
The was my choice after doing my research. The reviews on this dropper post are excellent and I have to agree.
Fairly straight forward instal once I read the instructions. It was a slightly different setup then the stock dropper that came with the bike so I thought I knew what I was doing.
Thankfully I had extra cables ready on standby.
The main reason for choosing the Ascend XL was that I was able to get 170 mm of travel for $135 at Chain Reaction Cycles.
The only thing I wish I did differently was order the 200mm version as I think I might have just enough room.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Brand X |
| Weight (post only) | 638g (170mm, 31.6) |
| Recommended Use | |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 499/559 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 170/200 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $135.00 |
$139
The Zeta is originally designed for use as a Road bike dropper but is said to be capable of being used gravel or cyclocross riders as well.
It has internal cable routing and is available in 35 and 50 mm travels at your standard diameters of 30.9 and 31.6 mm.
Currently, you can grab the on Competitive Cyclist for around $139
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Kindshock |
| Weight (post only) | |
| Recommended Use | Road, Cyclocross and Gravel |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 420 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 35/50 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $139.99 |
$150-$275
This next range offers a variety of options which include the Rainier Gen 3, Coast Suspension, CrankBrothers Highline, Rainier IR, OneUp, and Pine 27.2.
The $179
The Cascade comes in your standard 30.9 and 31.66 mm diameters with travel ranges of 125, 150, and 170 mm. The dropper is setup for fixed external routing at its mid-cap and uses a coil spring system.
The 150 and 170 mm travel options have been made stiffer and lighter with larger diameter stanchions. The addition of the DU bushing combats the seat wobble.
The Cascade Dropper Post can be found for as little as $129 at Competitive Cyclist for certain combinations, Jenson USA or the PNW website.
This current setup of the dropper post is listed for $179 on Competitive Cyclist.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | |
| Recommended Use | cross-country, enduro, trail |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year |
| Length (mm) | 406/449/489 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 125/150/170 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | External |
| Price | $179.99 |
$179
The 3rd Generation Rainier comes with a tool-less adjustable travel system and a smaller bottom actuator with a shorter lower tube for a nicer fit. The adjustable travel system allows for a more precise fit of 30mm travel in small 5 mm increments.
The internally routed dropper comes in 30.9 and 31.6 mm diameters and comes in at around $179. If you Rainier V3 also comes in a wide variety of travels; 125, 150, 170, & 200 mm.
Depending on the website you are seeing them on you might see them labeled as Rainier IR V3 but on the PNW Component website they are labeled as Rainier Gen 3 which is the similar to the Gen 2.
The 27.2 mm diameter dropper comes in 90 and 110 mm travels but runs a little pricier at around $199. Grab the for $179 on JensonUSA’s website.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | 640g (200mm) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro, DH |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year |
| Length (mm) | 393/443/483/543 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 125/150/170/200 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $179.00 |
Suspension $179
This suspension dropper is externally routed and is designed for commuting, gravel or hardtail bikes. It is the first suspension with 40 mm of tunable air suspension.
On the 30.9 and 31.6 mm diameter droppers you can get 120 mm of travel whereas the 27.2 mm diameter dropper will give you 100 mm’s of travel.
| Dropper | Suspension |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | 607g (120mm) |
| Recommended Use | Gravel, Trail, Cyclocross |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year |
| Length (mm) | 380/400 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 100/120 |
| Diameters (mm) | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $179.00 |
$199
The listed here on Competitive Cyclist has 120 mm of travel for both the 30.9 and 31.6 mm diameters. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Koryak comes with a reliable cable-actuated post that is capable of running Internally routed while also coming in an externally routed version as well but the externally routed option is more expensive.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | PRO |
| Weight (post only) | |
| Recommended Use | Mountain bike |
| Manufacturer Warranty | Lifetime |
| Length (mm) | 400 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | |
| Travel (mm) | 120 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $199.99 |
$199
The Highline comes in 30.9, 31.6, and 34.9 mm diameters. The travel available comes in at 80, 100, 135, 150, and 170 mm lengths.
The Highline also comes with a shorter insertion length allowing it to fit more bikes and comes with Jagwire cable and housing.
Internally routed with zero offset, the Highline is intended for Trail, Enduro, All-Mountain and DH mountain bikes.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Crank Brothers |
| Weight (post only) | 565g (125mm, 30.9) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro, DH |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 465mm (170mm) |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 80/100/125/170mm |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9/31.6/34.9 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $199.00 |
$209
The OneUp version 2 dropper post comes in as one of the shortest droppers on the market.
The OneUP dropper also comes with two shims (10 mm) that allow riders to size up their dropper up to 20 mm of travel..
As with most other droppers, OneUp does have their version of Dropper Levers but is sold separately.
Recommended for cross-country, enduro and trail riding, the OneUp V2 dropper comes with a 2 year warranty.
You can grab the dropper on JensonUSA for around $209.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | OneUp |
| Weight (post only) | 435g (120mm, 30.9) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 345/405/465/525 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | |
| Travel (mm) | 120/150/180/210 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9/31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $209.00 |
$199
The has been designed to accommodate the skinnier tubes and features external routing at the midcap instead of the post head.
Coming with 90 or 110mm travel the Pine also offers a 1 piece alloy stanchion which helps drop the weight by 100 grams.
With Infinite Adjustment you can pick from multiple ride positions throughout the trail and like all other PNW Droppers the Pine 27.2 comes with a 3 year warranty.
Riding hardtail, gravel, cyclocross or cross country this dropper could work for you.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | 530g (110mm, 27.2) |
| Recommended Use | cross-country |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 year |
| Length (mm) | 355/400 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | |
| Travel (mm) | 90/110 |
| Diameters (mm) | 27.2 |
| Routing | External |
| Price | $199.00 |
$199
Internally routed with a double key-way design to prevent lateral twisting, the Manic will work with most frame styles while allowing for multiple angle options.
The comes with the seatpost, cable, housing, cable bushing, manual, and the 1x shifter style remote. With available travels of 125 mm and 150 mm in 30.9 mm and 31.6 mm diameters.
At around $199 this is a nice option for those
| Dropper | Manic |
| Brand | PNW Components |
| Weight (post only) | 630g (150mm) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain, Enduro, XC |
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Length (mm) | 421/454 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 125/150 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $199.00 |
$249
The dropper comes in 125 mm and 150 mm travel lengths at 30.9mm and 31.6 mm diameters. This dropper is sold with a 1x remote.
Internally routed with a 2 year warranty, the dropper also has a 3d forged which is stronger than the bonded head designs.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | SDG Components |
| Weight (post only) | 712g (170mm) |
| Recommended Use | Cross-country, Enduro, Trail |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 390/440 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | |
| Travel (mm) | 125/150 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $249.00 |
$275 and Up
The higher range includes the e*thirteen TRS+, Race Face Turbine R, KS LEV SI, Transfer Factory Series, KS LEV Integra, Reverb Stealth, and the Reverb AXS.
$238
Coming with an impressive 5-year warranty the is offered in both 30.9 and 31.6 mm diameters.
Both diameters are available in 125, 150, and 170 mm travel lengths and include the lever. With 4 fixed dropper modes, the TRS+ gives riders options. For example, the 125mm option comes with the following modes: 125, 95, 65, and 0.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | e*thirteen |
| Weight (post only) | 570g (150mm) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, Enduro, All-Mountain |
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Length (mm) | 405/485/498 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 125/150/170 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $238.00 |
$240
The Turbine R is built on the Fox Transfer platform with 100, 125, 150, and 175 mm travel options in both diameters (30.9 and 31.6 mm).
Coming with 0 offset and without a lever the Turbine R weighs in around 545g.
With infinite adjustability, smooth actuation, and the Fox brand, this is a go-to for many.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Race Face |
| Weight (post only) | 577g (125mm, 30.9) |
| Recommended Use | Cross-country, enduro, trail |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 1 year |
| Length (mm) | 356/406/456 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 100/125/150 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $240.00 |
$280
The LEV SI dropper is internally routed using a keyway system to help minimize free play. It also runs 0mm offset with a two-bolt micro-adjust head.
The LEV SI is available in 27.2, 30.9 and 31.6 mm diameters with travels of 65, 100, 120, 125 and 150 mm’s.
Like many of the other droppers on the market, the does not come with a lever so be sure not to forget picking one up.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Kindshock |
| Weight (post only) | 562g (31.6mm) |
| Recommended Use | trail |
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Length (mm) | 295/300/345/350/395/400/415/445/450/465 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 75/100/125/150/175 |
| Diameters (mm) | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $280.00 |
Elite $299.00
The 2021 comes in lighter than the previous design while also offering easier serviceability.
Their patent -pending clamp design has dramatically reduced the stack height.
With all the changes the overall length of the droppers has been reduced by 30.6 mm to 48.4 mm and the insert depth has been reduced by between 8.6 mm to 25.2 mm.
| Dropper | Elite |
| Brand | Fox Racing Shox |
| Weight (post only) | |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain, XC |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 1 year warranty |
| Length (mm) | 308.6/363.5/418.3/475.1 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 100/125/150/175 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $299.00 |
$299
Pro’s dropper posts come with a lifetime warranty but this is based on an expected lifetime of 10 years.
While the 70 mm and 150 mm versions of this dropper come with external routing capabilities, the 120 mm, 150mm, and 170 mm versions are internally routed.
You can currently pick up the Competitive Cyclist for around $299.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Pro |
| Weight (post only) | 668g (150mm, 31.6) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain, XC |
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Length (mm) | 400/415/450/467/507 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | |
| Travel (mm) | 70/120/150/170 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $299.00 |
$350
Internally routed with a tool-free cable disconnect feature makes the Transfer Factory Series easy to install and maintain. Offered in both 30.9 and 316.6 mm diameters riders can choose from 100, 125, 150 and 175 mm travels.
The Transfer Factory Series also comes with a Kashima coating on the upper portion of the dropper. What is Kashima Coat? I’m glad you asked.
Miyaki, out of Japan, developed this anodized layer that is embedded into the surface of an allow which provides enhanced lubrication. It also provides a harder wearing surface which enhances shock smoothness and reaction.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Fox Racing Shox |
| Weight (post only) | 633g (175mm) |
| Recommended Use | All-Mountain |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 1 year |
| Length (mm) | 356/406/456 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | |
| Travel (mm) | 100/125/150 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $350.00 |
$350
Are you looking for options? Well the gives you plenty of options to fit any bike and riding style. The internally routed dropper has 0 offset and has a forged twin-bolt micro-adjustable head for a solid saddle.
The 27.2 diameter dropper comes with 65, 100, & 120mm of travel. The 30.9, 31.6, and 34.9 mm diameter droppers come with 80, 100, 125, 150, and 175 mm of travel.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Kindshock |
| Weight (post only) | 546g (31.6mm) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, All-Mountain |
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Length (mm) | 300/340/375/390/410/440/460/490 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 65/80/100/120/125/150/175 |
| Diameters (mm) | 27.2 / 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $350.00 |
$399
The new has been redesigned with new internals that provides increased reliability. They have also shortened the overall post lengths and added more travel options.
Available with 30.9, 31.6 and 34.9 mm post diameters and 100, 125, 150, 175 and 200 mm travel options. One of the coolest features also comes with a cool name “Connectamajig”
So what is the “Connectamajig”? It is a coupling hose that creates an easy, fast and convenient setup process. This coupling hose allows the rider multiple disconnects before they have to have the system bled.
To top it all off, RockShox has added Vent Valve Technology that allows the rider to reset their dropper post if they start experiencing Squish. This ability to do simple service from time to time reduces how often you may need to service the Reverb Stealth.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Rockshox |
| Weight (post only) | 545g (100mm, 30.9) |
| Recommended Use | Trail, XC, All-Mountain |
| Manufacturer Warranty | |
| Length (mm) | 301/351/414/519.5 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 100/125/150/170 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $399.00 |
$479.95
Thomson bike products have been around since the mid 90’s when they created their first one-piece seatpost. Fast forward to today and they have a solid .
The dropper comes in 100mm, 125mm, and 150mm of travel and comes in with a weight of 592 grams. The lower post is black with a gold-colored upper tube.
For more details, check out Competitive Cyclist where the current price of the is $479.95
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Thomson |
| Weight (post only) | 592grams (125mm) |
| Recommended Use | All-Mountain |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 375/400/450 |
| Lever Included? | No |
| Offset(mm) | 5 |
| Travel (mm) | 100/125/150 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 |
| Routing | Internal |
| Price | $479.95 |
$800
For the easiest installation, wireless is the way to go as you don’t have to worry about cleaning up external cable routing or fish the internal routing through the frame which can be a pain.
The comes with the same vent technology as the Stealth we just looked at.
The battery life is quite remarkable with a 40-hour trail live and it recharges in less than one hour. If you are out on an epic weekend getaway like my buddies and I then you will be good to go.
For those who run the SRAM AXS derailleur as well, you only need to bring 1 type of backup battery as they use the same removable battery.
Offered in 30.9, 31.6 and 34.9 mm diameters, the AXS comes with 100, 125, 150 or 170 mm travel.
| Dropper | |
| Brand | Rockshox |
| Weight (post only) | 830g (170mm) |
| Recommended Use | cross-country, enduro, trail |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 2 year |
| Length (mm) | 340/390/440/480 |
| Lever Included? | Yes |
| Offset(mm) | 0 |
| Travel (mm) | 100/125/150/170 |
| Diameters (mm) | 30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9 |
| Routing | Wireless |
| Price | $800.00 |
Now what’s next?
Now that you have all the information you need to purchase your new dropper post, check out the post below on common problems with Dropper posts as well as other problem areas.
In our article Common crank arm problems: how to solve them we cover the common problems mountain bikers have with their crank arms.
In our article Mountain bike pedals: Common Types, Questions and Problems. we cover some of the common types, questions, and problems that mountain bikers may experience with the different pedals.
In the article, Mountain bike axels explained: common types and problems we cover the different types of mountain bike axles and some common problems you may experience.