A whyte dropper post is the part of a mountain bike that supports the seat. This adjustable tube allows the seat to be shifted up and down in order to ensure the best-seated position for the rider while traveling over various terrains, such as dirt and gravel.
Whyte is a popular quality brand that is easily accessible. Utilizing a dropper post in your seat gives you the advantage of better positioning when needing more traction. You must press a lever attached to the handlebars, and the seat can be adjusted.
However, without maintenance, the dropper post can develop some issues, such as having played in the adjustment.
What if Your Dropper Post Does Not Work?
While riding, there is a possibility that your dropper post may not work. If this becomes a reality for you, you must manually adjust the seat. The dropper post not working can be from a number of issues, including the post sticking or spinning.
Either of these issues can be resolved by manually adjusting the dropper post. The most common resolution for this issue is adding tension on the cable for the dropper post. If you encounter that your dropper post is sinking, then you must adjust your cable tension.
Why is Your Dropper Post Sticking?
There are a couple of reasons why your dropper post would stick. The most common reason is that the internal post is forced into the frame and is offset from the internal housing components.
Essentially, this is similar to a jam. The most recommended way to fix this issue is to add tension to the inner cable connected to the handlebars.
The other option is to loosen the clamp and check the seal to see if it needs to be greased. This can be done by unscrewing the collar, applying lubricant, and then replacing it back to its original position.
Is It Common That Your Dropper Post is Spinning?
Many bikers report that their dropper post has some sort of play in it, otherwise known as spin. Depending on the dropper post, the play may be greater. Adjusting the clamp tension can decrease the amount of spinning.
The main cause of this issue is typically when the rider is too heavy for the seat. Adding tension to the dropper post can combat this issue.
However, when there is too much tension in the cable, the rider can experience issues as well. This can be resolved by removing the tension in the cable.
What is the Cost of Servicing a Dropper Post?
Servicing a dropper post can be fairly inexpensive as long as it is properly maintained between maintenance. The first price that you’ll see is the mechanic’s hourly rate.
This can range from around $75 to $120, depending on who you choose to service your mountain bike. In addition to the hourly rate, you may need to have the cable changed or bled.
Those types of services can range from $15 to $40 each. If your dropper post is not properly cared for between maintenance appointments, you may need a full rebuild which can run you around $100 to $200, which is the worst-case scenario.
Can You Fix it On Your Own?
Most dropper posts can be fixed on your own with the tools you have at home. However, proper maintenance will make it easier for self up-keep. Most simple fixes require adding or releasing tension from the dropper post cables.
This is done by turning the barrel adjuster on the handlebars. Ensuring that the dropper post is cleaned regularly is your best bet to be able to keep up with routine maintenance. This is done by clearing away any dirt or grime from the post shaft.
Every ride, the dropper post should be washed with a bar of mild soap to ensure any debris is cleared away.
Final Thoughts on Whyte Dropper Post Problems
In summary, dropper posts can have several problems. However, with proper upkeep, they will serve you well while riding your mountain bike. Some problems consist of the dropper post having too much play or starting to spin.
These issues have simple solutions that can typically be resolved at home by adding or releasing tension in the cables attached to the dropper post. In addition, maintenance by a mountain bike mechanic is fairly inexpensive if you choose not to fix the issues on your own.