Dropper posts have fast become an expected feature on any decent trail bike and increasingly seen on marathon and cross country offerings. With the rise in popularity comes an influx of feedback on the variety of options available. Amongst the many satisfied dropper owners we see a littering of complaints about the high costs of market leaders and the inferiority of many of the low cost contenders.
Enter the Contour Dropper post from Lyne Components. The Contour Dropper post features hydraulic internals with external mechanical cables linked to the lever. This results in super smooth actuation and unlimited adjustability along the length of its travel. It also makes internal routing and maintenance a whole lot simpler.
The chaps behind the brand are Cape Town based and have a healthy background in the bike industry. The products themselves are made in Taiwan and all carry a two year warranty. In terms of maintenance, the mechanical components are easily serviceable by a capable home mechanic or at your local bike shop using standard gear cables and housing. The hydraulic cartridge is also replaceable, should it develop any issues over time, at a cost of roughly R600 (exchange rate dependant).
The Contour Dropper post is currently available in four specifications catering for a relatively small range of seatpost diameters, travel and routing options. Our test model is the 31.6mm diameter internally routed post with 100mm of travel. This is currently the only option available in 31.6mm, with more options available to those running 30.9mm. There is talk of a 31.6mm, 120mm travel with external routing scheduled to arrive towards the end of August 2016.
Specifications (as tested)
- Diameter31.6mm
- Travel100mm
- RoutingInternal
- Weight+/- 507g (excluding cable and lever)
- Length345mm
- Warranty2 years
- PriceR 2,199.00
Other options available:
- 30.9 x 100mm Internal Routing, Travel: 100mm, Weight: +/- 490g, Total length 345mm
- 30.9 x 120mm Internal Routing, Travel: 120mm, Weight: +/- 531g, Total length 390mm
- 30.9 x 100mm External Routing, Travel: 100mm, Weight: +/- 634g, Total length 400mm
When looking at any new seatpost getting the length (and diameter) right is critical. In my case, running the 345mm Contour at recommended maximum extension ends up just 1cm short of my ideal saddle height for proper leg extension. No problem for me during the test period on mostly casual trail rides, but for long term use and longer stage races, I’d need something just a fraction longer.
Installation
Out of the box the Contour is an impressive looking, well built piece of kit. The overall appearance and the feel in your hands gives the impression of high build quality.
Depending on your specific frame the experience of routing internal cables may be quite different. In my case routing through a Momsen Vipa XT 2015 involved wool string, a vacuum cleaner, plenty duct tape and a whole lot of patience.
Once the cable housing provided is routed in your frame it’s as simple as cutting down the length as suggested in the installation guide and attaching the cable. There are a few important details to take note of to ensure proper function, but the instructions are easy to follow and concise enough for those who typically don’t read manuals.
On the trail
The Lyne Contour operates via a simple lever like most other droppers. Push the lever and sit down on the saddle to drop, releasing at your desired level to set the height. To pop back up simply hit the lever again either while standing to return to the fully extended position or guiding it up to the desired level.
The actuation is super smooth and infinite adjustability, thanks to the hydraulic cartridge, is a big plus for what is, on price at least, an entry-level offering. The lever itself is very light and responsive and during testing required no adjustment or reattachment, which makes me question the need for a hydraulic line in any dropper. The post’s return is gentle and controllable making it easy to avoid any unplanned groin crunching. In all positions the Contour dropper feels very secure, both laterally and horizontally, with no movement once set at the level you choose.
Although a fraction too short, for my needs as a stage race and casual trail rider the 100m of travel is plenty, but those with longer travel bikes and more “minerals” might be left wanting. If you’re running a 30.9mm seat post then the 120mm internal option should have you covered, but here the limited options do mean not all setups and preferences will be catered for.
After a few months on the Contour dropper post I’m thoroughly impressed. Although by no means a true long term test with two and a half months of riding, I’ve had nothing but dropper post joy from the Contour. It’s been working flawlessly since day one with no adjustments or maintenance (aside from regular cleaning) required so far.
Verdict
The Lyne Contour dropper post delivers top level performance at entry-level pricing. The hydraulic internals coupled with mechanical externals offer the best of both worlds in the adjustability and smoothness of hydraulic along with the simplicity and ease of maintenance of mechanical cables.
If you’re in the market for a dropper post the Contour should be firmly at the top of your list, that is if your required size is available. My hope is that as demand grows Lyne Components will be able to expand their range further to include more travel and routing options across all common diameters. Until then I’ll pop my name on the “waiting list” for a 31.6mm, 120mm travel, internal routing. Please.
Pros
- Excellent pricing
- Super smooth with unlimited adjustability
- High build quality
Cons
- Limited options available at present
For more information visit lynecomponents.com
Love the look of these and if there is a 120 external then that would be a winner. And to be honest that 1x trigger is a great idea.
They just need to make that trigger available for other makes (giant... hint, hint) or my current post needs to pack up so I have an excuse to get one of these!
Great to see a SA company in the market and bringing real world value, a quality product and backing themselves with the warranty and the cartridge. Good luck!