Parallelogram seat posts - What you should know

Over the years, cycling has evolved from just a means of transportation to a popular recreational activity and a serious sport. This development is not just about speed and efficiency, but also about comfort and the overall experience for the driver. An innovation that has contributed significantly to increasing this comfort is the parallelogram seatpost , also known as a suspension seatpost.

This technological advancement has fundamentally changed the cycling experience by providing improved suspension and cushioning. Overall , parallelogram seatposts have expanded and improved the cycling experience by providing additional comfort and cushioning. They are particularly popular with riders who travel long distances or cover different terrains. However, the decision between a parallelogram seatpost and a traditional, rigid seatpost depends on individual preferences, riding style and the types of trails being ridden. The continuous development of such technologies shows how much cycling has become a symbiosis of performance and comfort.

Advantages:

1. Comfort: A parallelogram seatpost , also known as a suspension seatpost, provides vertical flexibility that absorbs shock and vibration from the road or terrain. This creates an overall smoother ride and reduces the strain on the driver.

2. Reduced Fatigue: Because the parallelogram seatpost absorbs vibration and shock, fatigue is reduced during long rides. This is particularly beneficial on bumpy or uneven surfaces.

3. Back-friendly: The suspension helps reduce pressure on the lower back as it absorbs the shock that would otherwise be transmitted directly to the spine.

4. More Traction: On rough terrain or poor road conditions, the suspension can help better maintain rear wheel traction as the wheel stays in contact with the ground more easily.

Disadvantages:

1. Weight: Parallelogram seatposts are usually heavier than rigid seatposts because they contain additional mechanisms and spring elements. This can increase the overall weight of the bike.

2. Loss of pedaling efficiency: During intense pedaling or sprinting, the movement of the suspension seat post can cause some pedaling power to be lost. This can affect efficiency, especially when pedaling hard.

3. Maintenance: Parallelogram seatposts may require more maintenance than rigid seatposts because they have moving parts and suspension elements that can become worn or dirty over time.

4. Cost: Suspension seat posts are often more expensive to purchase than conventional rigid seat posts.

5. Adjustment: Correct adjustment of the parallelogram seat post can be a bit tricky. An incorrectly adjusted spring travel can result in the suspension not functioning optimally or in undesirable deflection occurring.

6. Height: Due to the spring or spring elements, the entire body of the parallelogram seat post is loosely 5-8 above the seat post clamp! Please consider!!

Deciding whether a parallelogram seatpost is right for you depends on your riding style, the road conditions you ride on, and your individual preferences. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and perhaps try out different models before making a decision.

I had the following seat post on my hardtail for a long time: