In 2019, RockShox ushered in a new era of wireless components with the Reverb AXS, which still is one of the dropper posts we use most frequently. But how does it fare in terms of durability, and how does it stack up against both new and old competitors in our comparison test?

RockShox are an integral part of mountain biking history, and are known not only for their suspension components but also for the iconic RockShox Reverb dropper post. Like its wireless counterpart, the RockShox Reverb AXS has actively shaped the evolution of dropper posts.
Introduced in 2019, the Reverb AXS has seen little technical change over the years – except for its price tag, with the latest iteration retailing at € 745, including the remote. While this is slightly cheaper than the first iteration with € 800, it’s still the second-most expensive dropper post in our test field, just after the € 1,319 FOX Transfer Neo. Close behind follows the Kind Shock LEV Circuit at € 730, while the TranzX EDP01 is the most affordable wireless option, retailing at € 500. But is the Reverb AXS worth the money?
You can find an overview of this comparison test here: The best dropper post.
The RockShox Reverb AXS is available in a 34.9 mm diameter with travel options of 100 mm, 125 mm, 150 mm, and 170 mm. While this range undoubtedly meets the needs of many riders, the fact that the Reverb AXS is still capped at 170 mm of travel five years after its launch might be frustrating for tall riders and fans of long-travel droppers. For those seeking more adjustability in an electronic dropper, models like the TranzX EDP01 and Kind Shock LEV Circuit are worth a closer look.
However, if you’re happy with 170 mm of travel, the Reverb AXS delivers. It has a minimal insertion depth of just 265 mm, which, for the tested 170 mm version, is unsurprising. The TranzX EDP01 comes closest with an insertion depth of 288 mm, despite offering 30 mm more travel. On the other hand, the Reverb’s stack height stands out due to the battery positioned at the head of the post, resulting in the largest stack in the test at a substantial 65 mm.
Retailing at € 745, the Reverb AXS includes the original AXS remote. Without the remote, the dropper post costs € 655. The standard AXS paddle remote costs € 90 and draws its power from a coin cell battery that, according to RockShox, lasts up to two years – a claim that aligns with our experience, though usage frequency naturally affects this. A small LED on the underside of the remote allows you to check the battery level.
If the remote runs out of power on the trail, the Reverb AXS can still be operated manually. Pressing the button at the head of the post opens the valve, extending the dropper and waking it from sleep mode. To lower the post manually, hold the button down for a few seconds. This functionality requires the included 300 mAh AXS battery to be fully charged and inserted into the dropper.
The charging station and micro-USB cable are provided, though no wall adapter is included in the price. A full charge takes about an hour, and the LED near the button on the post’s head indicates the battery status: green for full, red for 50%, and blinking red when it’s nearly empty. On long journeys by car, you should remove the battery to prevent the Shake-to-Wake function from draining it.
Battery levels and system updates for both the dropper and remote can be managed via the free AXS app. The app allows you to customize the remote’s configuration and pair the Reverb AXS with other AXS remotes, like the AXS Pods.
Internally, the Reverb AXS uses a hydraulic IFP (Internal Floating Piston) cartridge, which has proven impressively durable. In over two years, we haven’t had to service the post, and it still operates flawlessly. Should the post ever feel spongy due to air mixing with the hydraulic oil, it’s an easy fix. Using the included Vent Valve tool, you can bleed the dropper. Simply remove the dropper from the bike, extend it fully, and flip it upside down. Attach the tool to the vent valve, compress the post until you feel resistance, hold for two seconds, then extend it fully again. Just like that, the dropper is as good as new.


Installing the wireless RockShox Reverb AXS is a breeze: apply some grease to the post, slide it in, and you’re good to go. Attaching the saddle is equally straightforward: tighten the two clamps with a single bolt, then adjust the tilt using the front tilt screw on the post head. Attaching the remote is simple, and can be secured to the handlebars either with a conventional clamp or Matchmaker, which allows for a clean and ergonomic cockpit setup. Two mounting points on the remote also let you fine-tune its position and distance from your thumb.
The performance of the RockShox Reverb AXS impressed us, as it runs reliably and consistently – even after two years of regular use. The AXS remote features a paddle-like thumb pad that’s pleasantly large and provides excellent tactile feedback, enabling precise control to stop the dropper at any point along its travel.
The Reverb AXS boasts lightning-fast extension speed, which is on par with the FOX Transfer Factory. While the FOX Transfer Neo is marginally faster, the difference is negligible. As for battery life, if the LED glows green at the start of your ride, a weekend of biking is no problem. In fact, the AXS battery can last an entire week with no issues – just remember to remove the battery during transport to prevent unnecessary drain.
Conclusions about the RockShox Reverb AXS dropper post
In 2019, RockShox set a clear benchmark with the wireless Reverb AXS. However, the maximum travel option of 170 mm is starting to feel a bit dated. Additionally, the position of the battery results in a higher stack height. That said, the RockShox Reverb AXS delivers outstanding durability and performance. While the price remains steep, RockShox offer a reliable, low-maintenance dropper post that requires little attention beyond monitoring the battery charge. For those seeking hassle-free operation and long-term dependability, it remains a solid choice.

Tops
- Reliable performance
- Easy installation
- Excellent tactile feedback from the remote

Flops
- Maximum travel of 170 mm
- High stack height
For more information, visit RockShox.com
The test field
You can find an overview of this comparison test here: The best dropper post.
All dropper posts in test: BikeYoke REVIVE 3.0 | Crankbrothers Highline 11 | FOX Transfer Factory | FOX Transfer Neo Factory | FOX Transfer SL Factory | FSA Flowtron Dropper Post | Kind Shock LEV Circuit | LIMOTEC H1 | OneUp V3 | PNW Loam Dropper | RockShox Reverb AXS | SDG TELLIS V2 | TranzX EDP01 | Turnon Bunker | Wolf Tooth Resolve rev2
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Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Peter Walker