Dropper posts may not seem like a big deal, but they can mean the difference between a comfortable ride on those trails and some very sore bits when it is all done.
Having the right dropper post allows you to find the right position that is perfect for the environment you are riding in and your comfort.
So knowing this, you may now be wondering if you need to replace your dropper post. With that question, you may also be wondering if all dropper post levers are compatible. Unfortunately, the answer is no because there are different types of dropper posts.
So if you are considering upgrading your dropper post and its lever, you may want to keep reading because we will check out just how to pick a lever and a few other vital questions that could help you with your decision-making process.
How Do You Pick a Dropper Lever?
The dropper post won’t work as well as you would like without the right lever. So no matter what post you choose, you will need to know how to choose the lever as well. So we have put a quick buyers guide for just that purpose.
Here are the features that need to be considered when you are looking at a new dropper post lever:
- Type of Bike – The handlebar style plays a role in choosing the lever. If you are placing the lever on a gravel and road bike, the placement will be different from that of a mountain bike. Not every lever will be fit for these positions.
- Adjustability – Making sure you can easily adapt the lever to your needs is an important aspect of your chosen lever design.
- Durability – Like with everything, you want to ensure that the lever is made with quality materials so it lasts a long time.
How Many Types of Droppers Are There?
The lever has to be compatible with the dropper post itself. That means understanding the basics of each of the two main types of dropper posts is crucial. When choosing a dropper post, you have the option of either a hydraulic model or a mechanical one.
The hydraulic option is outfitted with a lever that moves fluid from place to place to rise and lower the seat. The mechanical style uses a cable instead of hydraulic fluid to do the same task.
What Are the Differences Between Dropper Posts?
The biggest difference is, of course, the mode of function. We talked about the different types -hydraulic and mechanical. But other factors are different when looking at the drop posts. Other things that differ from drop post style to drop post style such as:
- Length and diameter
- Routing of cable – external versus internal
- Trigger mounting style – vertical or horizontal
Can You Reuse Droppers?
Many of us use reuse and recycle to help the world stay greener. That goes for every aspect of our lives, which might translate well to a desire to reuse your dropper post. Several services offer you money to buy your used droppers, and they refresh them for sale.
So with that being said, as long as you have taken care of the dropper post, it should be very easy to reuse it. You only have to ensure that it’s compatible with the bike you are trying to use it on.
Do Dropper Posts Come With Levers?
If you are on a budget, you may be hoping that you can get both the dropper post and even in one package. So is that possible? The answer is yes. There are dropper posts that come with the lever included.
But be cautious because just as common is the selling of both parts separately. We like this because you can customize the lever to your preferences as well. So if you have the chance, it might be a better idea for you to buy them separately.
Final Thoughts on Are All Dropper Post Levers Compatible
The lever is a vital part of your dropper post system, and just like the dropper comes with some things that need to be considered.
The first is that not all levers are compatible with every dropper post. So understanding the different types of dropper posts that you can choose should be the first step in finding the right lever for you and your bike.