How to Use a Suspension Seatpost

In its most basic form, the bicycle seatpost serves a single function---to allow a seat, or "saddle," to be attached to the frame of the bicycle. The seatpost can then be adjusted up or down to position the saddle to a height adequate to the individual. Suspension seatposts add a further feature to the basic seatpost. Suspension seatposts include a spring tension feature that helps absorb some of the impact from the road. Riders adjust the spring tension feature to help customize and improve "feel" of the bicycle.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • 6 mm Allen wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the bicycle for a ride, and note the "feel" of the saddle. Spring tension adjustment determines how much the seatpost compresses beneath the weight of the rider as the bicycle is riding over a bump. Higher spring tension causes the seatpost to compress less. Lower spring causes the seatpost to compress more.

    • 2

      Dismount the bicycle. Measure the bicycle from a fixed point somewhere on its base to the top of the saddle. Remember the measurement. Use the measurement when reinstalling the seatpost to set the seatpost to its former height.

    • 3

      Open the quick-release at the base of the seatpost. This feature allows for quick removal and installation of the seatpost.

    • 4

      Lift the seatpost away from the bicycle.

    • 5

      Turn the seatpost over. Use a 6 mm hex wrench and turn the spring tension adjustment nut at the bottom of the seatpost in the proper direction. Turn the nut clockwise to increase spring tension. Turn the nut counterclockwise to decrease spring tension. Give the nut no more than a one-quarter turn before testing the adjustment.

    • 6

      Reinstall the seatpost on the bicycle. Use the measuring tape to help set the seat to the same height as before. Point the nose of the seat straight, along the top center of the bike, and close the quick-release to secure the seatpost.

    • 7

      Take the bicycle for another ride to check the adjustment. Proper "feel" is subjective, and changes from one rider to another. In general, increase spring tension for suspension that feels "spongy." Decrease spring tension for suspension that feels severe.