Seatpost

Buying advice for: Seatpost

• Seat post types

  Rigid seat posts are the classic version and consist of a fixed tube that holds the saddle in a fixed position. They are simple, robust and particularly light. This type of seat post is often used on racing bikes and mountain bikes, where weight saving and direct power transmission are crucial. Suspension seat posts or damper seat posts integrate a suspension or damper mechanism that absorbs shocks and vibrations during the ride. These seat posts offer additional comfort and protect the rider's back, especially when riding on uneven terrain or long distances. They are popular with mountain bikers and trekking cyclists who go on longer trips. Telescopic seatposts, also known as dropper seatposts, allow the rider to adjust the saddle height while riding using a remote control or lever on the handlebars. These posts are particularly popular with mountain bikers as they allow the saddle to be lowered quickly and achieve a lower centre of gravity when riding down technical descents or obstacles.

• Seat post brands

  The leading brands in the bicycle seatpost sector include RockShox, KS Suspension, Thomson and Kind Shock. RockShox and KS Suspension are known for their high-quality dropper seatposts, which are robust and offer reliable performance, especially for mountain bikers and enduro riders. Thomson stands for precisely manufactured and durable aluminium seat posts that are popular with road and mountain bike riders alike. Kind Shock, also known as KS, offers a wide range of dropper posts that improve comfort and control on the trail.

• Materials and workmanship

  Bike seatposts are typically made from aluminium, carbon or titanium. Aluminium is widely used due to its strength, lightness and good damping properties. Carbon is used for high-end models as it is extremely light and stiff at the same time, which improves pedalling efficiency. Titanium is rare but very durable and offers high corrosion resistance. The workmanship plays a crucial role in the longevity and reliability of the seatpost. High-quality models use precisely milled joints and forged components that ensure high load-bearing capacity and stability.

• Technical features

  Modern bicycle seatposts have a number of technical features that improve their performance. Adjustable saddle tilt allows the rider to precisely set the angle of the saddle to optimise the ergonomic position. Air or oil suspension systems in dropper posts offer customisable damping that can be adjusted to suit the rider's weight and riding style. Quick-release or clamping mechanisms make it easier to fit and adjust the seatpost. Integrated cables for dropper posts allow the cables to be routed cleanly and safely through the frame. A remote lever on the handlebars allows the rider to adjust the saddle height quickly and easily without having to take their hands off the handlebars.