Dropper Post for XC Hardtail?

gcwebbyuk

Is a dropper post on an XC hardtail overkill?

I currently run a Thomson post with a QR, and am tempted by the Thomson dropper.

I mainly ride XC on the south downs way, but also plan on riding more local trails.

Is it overkill or a worthwhile addition? Would it add a lot more weight?

rockmonkeysc

I wouldn't go for the Thompson, it's not got the best reliability record.
If you want a dropper then go for it.

MilesUK

Definitely go for a dropper post. The weight will be in the centre of the bike so you will not notice it when riding and you will gain a lot more instant freedom on the trails. The best post around is still the rockshox reverb but if you can get the stealth version. Also if you are running a single chainring up front and not left hand shifter buy the right hand reverb. This means you can then fit it upside-down next to your left hand brake lever tucking it neatly out of the way.

gcwebbyuk

I'm hopefully going to ride Dalby Forest red route over the Xmas break, so will try that with the QR and see how much I actually move my seatpost up/down.

Id more than likely stick with the Thomson just because I am a bike tart and currently have Thomson stem/bars/seat post...

The Rookie

My bike is decidedly XC biased, I usually run with a fixed post using a QR but also have a crotch dropper (so no remote or cable/hose to fiddle with) which I fit for more aggressive riding days....best of both worlds perhaps?