The dropper post on a bike can stick or stop working altogether, which can be frustrating. There could be several reasons the dropper post on your bike seat isn’t working correctly.
If it won’t go up or down and seems to be stuck, it is possible that there is not enough tension on the cable. It is also possible that the post is bent from pushing it into the frame without sliding the housing along simultaneously.
If the post won’t stay up and is sliding down as you’re riding, then there is too much tension on the cable.
Common Troubleshooting Questions About Dropper Posts
Your dropper post could malfunction for any number of reasons. However, there are some common troubleshooting questions you should be aware of to help you determine the cause of your issue.
For example, why isn’t my dropper post reaching full extension? Why is my post returning slowly or feeling spongy? How much is rotational play normal?
Answering some of these questions might help you to determine the cause of your problem and give you an idea of how to fix it.
Can You Fix it On Your Own?
Depending on what is wrong with your dropper post, you might be able to fix it on your own. For example, if it is a matter of adjusting the tension in the cable, you might be able to handle that by yourself.
On the other hand, if your post is bent, you could need to seek help from someone familiar with bike maintenance. However, anyone can learn how to fix common issues with the right internet search.
Therefore, you might be able to find the solution to your problem online and learn how to fix your problem without assistance.
Why Does it Happen?
A number of things could cause a malfunctioning dropper post. If your dropper post is having issues because of too much or too little tension on the cable, it likely loosened over time. You might not have slid the seat post incorrectly if the bar is bent.
The fact of the matter is that mountain biking can be a relatively rough activity, and things could get damaged just out on the trail. Many bikers experience issues with their dropper posts.
It is a common problem to have, and you shouldn’t feel like you’ve done something wrong with your bike.
Should You Buy a New One?
If your dropper post is not working correctly, you might not have to go right out and purchase a new one. It depends on what is causing the problem. For example, you might need to consider purchasing a new dropper post if your post is bent.
On the other hand, if it is a matter of adjusting the tension on the cable, then the dropper post you have might be perfectly fine. You will need to figure out what exactly is causing the problem before you run out and spend your hard-earned money on a new dropper post.
If you’re not sure if you should buy a new dropper post or not, seek out help from a maintenance professional.
Is it Expensive to Fix it?
If you plan to take your bike to someone to fix the issue you’re having with your dropper post, you will need to know how expensive it is to get your bike serviced.
Pricing for maintenance could vary from shop to shop, but on average, a complete dropper post overhaul will cost you $65. If you need a new dropper post, you will also have to invest in that part.
Dropper posts can be expensive, but if your issue is as simple as adjusting the tension on the cable, you could get away without spending too much on the repair.
Final Thoughts on Dropper Posts Malfunctioning
A hobby as active as mountain biking puts serious wear and tear on your equipment. Any number of reasons can cause a malfunctioning dropper post, and the fix could be as simple as adjusting the cable’s tension or as complex as needing to replace the entire dropper post.
It is common for dropper posts to stop working properly, and you should know where to look if it happens to your bike. If all else fails, seek help from a maintenance professional so you can get back out on the trail.