The RockShox Reverb dropper post has a legendary reputation and now RockShox have dropped a new C1 model with some very useful updates. However, with a high price tag, does it still kick ass on the trail?
Here you’ll find an overview of the best mountain bike dropper posts in review.
The RockShox Reverb boasts unique hydraulic activation, using oil rather than a cable to activate the post. This allows for a more flexible hose that is good at navigating tight turns in internal cable routing. RockShox have now launched their new Reverb C1 post with a revised design that aims to reduce friction and breakaway force. The Reverb C1 post comes in longer 175 and 200 mm versions suitable for even the tallest trail giraffes, as well as the 100mm, 125mm and 150mm sizes. Fitted to more bikes at OEM level than any other dropper post, cumulatively the original RockShox Reverb must have dropped and extended more than any other dropper around, so the design should be perfect. The original Reverb did have a few problems, suffering from ‘spongy post’ syndrome, where air gets pulled inside the IFP, if the bike was mishandling by lifting the saddle with the post down. The new C1 post aims to solve, or at least remedy this issue with a new Vent Valve under the seat clamp, allowing you to revive your seat post if air has been drawn past the IFP. You do have to remove the seat to access the valve, but it’s a better solution than having to send it off for a service.
RockShox have succeeded in their mission of creating a better post. On the trail the new C1 is a great step forward over the old post.
| Post | Price | Total length1 | Max insertion2 | Ride height3 | Stack height4 | Travel [mm] | Weight (incl. remote) | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RockShox Reverb C1 | € 445 | 510 mm | 275 mm | 205 mm | 63 mm | 100 – 125 – 150 – 175 – 200 | 585 g | Hydraulic |
The Reverb C1 feels noticeably smoother and easier to get moving. The hose is filled with a new Reverb Serene Fluid to ensure silky operation, and the remote sets new standards in friction free activation. The Vent Valve works well. After four months of use we did not detect any ‘squish’ on the trail, so had to resort to some purposeful abuse pulling the post up repeatedly from its lowered position and induce some sponginess.
Using the Vent Valve took a little while due to its location below the saddle, but it refreshed the IFP perfectly. The shifter style 1X remote for the Reverb is unchanged from the previous generation, which is no bad thing as it’s an excellent remote. The action makes it easy to modulate and stop the post when you need to and the return speed is highly adjustable.
Conclusion
The new C1 update brings the RockShox Reverb back to the top of the pile. With new, smoother operation and a Vent Valve to refresh the post, the new RockShox Reverb C1 is outstanding. If you have tight cable routing on your frame, the flexible hydraulic hose of the Reverb is king.
Tops
- friction free activation
- flexible hose for difficult routing
- new Vent Valve
Flops
- 1X remote has long throw
- bleeding is more complex than cable change
For more info head to: sram.com
Here you’ll find an overview of the best mountain bike dropper posts in review.
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