Brand-X is a house brand of the mighty Chain Reaction Cycles, producing functional parts at incredible prices.
Here you’ll find our recent comparison test of the best mtb dropper post.
The Brand-X Ascend dropper is only available in a 120 mm drop, but it does feature infinite adjustment and costs just €160 – incredible! Inside is a sealed air spring that delivers no-frills dropping, and with a two-year warranty, service should not be a huge worry. At 550 g this post is right in the mix when it comes to weight. It does not have the finish of the more expensive posts, but all parts feel well made and durable. While the post cannot be serviced at home and return speed is fixed, we still think it’s an incredible bargain. The post is available in both 30.9 and 31.6 mm with a 120 mm drop and a total length of 410 mm. The two-bolt seat clamp held the seat firmly during testing with no squeaks or creaks.
The remote lever is actually very nice, with a smooth return spring and a big comfortable paddle that integrates well into the controls. The lever does need a firmer push than the best in the test, but it responds well and is easy to stop anywhere in the travel. If you follow the simple instructions, the installation is fiddly but still relatively easy, though we would recommend using a higher-quality inner cable than the one supplied. However, it was on the trail where we were blown away. After four months of use the post was near faultless and did not put a foot wrong. It is a little noisier than some posts, but it’s a reliable performer… again and again, it never let us down. Even after hundreds of kilometers, very little play developed in the seat head and we forgot it was there. At this price point we could forgive it some weaknesses – but we cannot overlook one major flaw! 120 mm is just too short for most riders. If Brand-X produce a 150 mm version, then the Ascend will be an incredible bargain – so fingers crossed!
Drop: 120 mm
Weight: 550 g/33 g (post/remote)
Price: €160
Strengths
- Affordable
- Reliable
Weaknesses
- Basic construction
- Only one travel option
For more information head to hotlines-uk.com
Here you’ll find our recent comparison test of the best mtb dropper post.
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