How to choose a mountain bike seatpost?

How to choose a mountain bike seatpost?

Choosing your MTB seatpost should not be rushed. Apart from the aesthetic aspect, this device contributes greatly to your comfort on the bike. bike. Here are a few tips.

The standards

To choose the right seatpost, you need to consider the following characteristics:

  • Diameter
  • length
  • Shape: straight or receding
  • Material
  • Types: rigid, suspended or telescopic

Types of seat posts

To begin with, it's important to remember that when we talk about diameter of the seatpost, we're referring to the inside diameter of the frame tube that will accommodate it.

A second important element is the length. Make sure you choose one that's long enough to give you the height you need for your measurements. Be careful, however, to ensure that the frame is at least 10 cm deep, otherwise you risk damaging the stem or having an accident.

Probikeshop tip: a seatpost that is longer than necessary will often stiffen your frame, thus reducing comfort, or even cause you to bump into the frame before you reach the desired seat height. It's therefore advisable to check the length you need, or fit the closest value.

 

With regard to the shapethe straight stems offer no special adjustment but provide greater resistance and optimal power transmission; while the with recoil extend the distance between saddle and cockpit for greater comfort.

About the materialWhen it comes to comfort and weight, you can opt for a carbon model, even if the difference with aluminum versions is less and less visible, the extra cost will nevertheless be considerable. If aluminum doesn't satisfy you in terms of comfort, because it's certainly stiffer, the flexibility of titanium will certainly seduce you, with a weight that's still contained.

Please note that there are carbon saddle rails oval and not round, and therefore require a seatpost MTB with a compatible carriage.

Finally, there are three types of seatpost rigid, suspended and telescopic. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. So it's important to carefully analyze your needs, expectations and budget to make the choice that's right for you.

Which seatpost to choose?

Your choice of seatpost is directly influenced by the geometry of your frame and your measurements, particularly your inseam.

If you want a particularly light seatpost, opt for carbon. If your priority is comfort, look to titanium; otherwise, aluminum is often the best value for money.

If you're not sure whether to opt for a straight or a recoil model, remember that the latter will modify your position not only in relation to the handlebars, but also in relation to the bottom bracket. If you stand too far back, your posture may not be ideal for developing your full pedaling power.

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