Ok, I’ll cut to the chase on this one and just say that the 9 Point 8 Fall Line dropper seatpost is the absolute best that I’ve used. I’ve mentioned this before and will probably say it again “I can’t believe how plagued by reliability problems dropper seatposts are.” Some may be fine for 1,000 miles, but not many can make it much further without being sent in for service or warranty work. No other bike parts are more frustratingly unreliable to me as the dropper post, especially when I’m without!
I’ve now had the Fall Line out on the trail for 1,600+ miles of stream crossings and mud. These conditions have already made it past some bearing seals on other parts of my bike. The Fall Line however is still going strong with only one lube under the seal (very easy and quick).
Details: 9Point8 Fall Line | $399 with ThumB lever/ + $18 with Digit lever by Wolf Tooth | 375 length x 125mm drop 30.9mm diameter
What makes the Fall Line so great?
- Quality of Design and engineering – seals, low pressure and completely user serviceable. Where other posts feel like they are the product of designers, the Fall Line undeniably is engineered very well. I’m running a fraction of the air pressure (35psi) of other dropper posts.
- User adjustable length – The post is internally adjustable to any length from the factory or by purchasing a spacer kit.
- Mechanical spring locks into position even if you have a post failure. You won’t be left in the woods with a sagging post that drops when your hydraulic cartridge fails or you lose air pressure.
- Lightweight – My 375x125mm 31.6 post came in at a hair over 518 grams with the lever, housing and cable. That’s at least 75 grams lighter than most other posts.
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What I Don’t Like
As mentioned above the stock lever ergonomics suck. Opt for the $18 Digit (by Wolf Tooth) upgrade. I wanted to like the stock lever even with the 1x ThumB adapter. The lever just wasn’t in the right position for my thumb compared to actual shifter levers that are right under the bar and much easier to reach. I switched to the ultra-adjustable Crank Brothers Highline lever and have been happy.
Final Word
I wouldn’t recommend any other dropper post above the Fall Line at this time. With its adjustable travel, user serviceability, reliability (so far) and action I wouldn’t even consider purchasing any other dropper seatpost. I prefer to ride my bike and not worry about broken parts that I have to replace or send in for warranty. 9Point8 has engineered a reliable and completely user serviceable masterpiece among a sea of failures.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
