If looking to install a dropper seatpost on a kid’s mountain bike, or you have a gravel bike with almost enough clearance, they’re worthy upgrades that come in handy…if they’ll fits! On most medium and larger gravel bikes, this isn’t an issue as sufficient seatpost sticks out of the frame making installation a breeze for a competent mechanic. For riders on small and XS frame bikes for adults, as well as larger children’s mountain bikes, here are some ways to make it a dropper post fit when the difference between fitting is a matter of millimeters!
Using Dropper Seatposts on Gravel Bikes:
Dropper posts, commonly associated with mountain biking, are increasingly popular on gravel bikes for their versatility and adaptability. A dropper post allows riders to quickly adjust their saddle height on the fly, providing optimal positioning for climbing, descending, and technical terrain. For urban bikes, these are also convenient to use while stopped at intersections. This versatility enhances rider confidence and control, especially on more challenging descents with varying terrain features.
Use the Shortest Stack Height Dropper Post:
As of the time of writing, OneUp Components V3 dropper post has the lowest a stack height of any currently sold dropper post at 30mm. This is a 10% decrease compared to their previous V2 post with a stack height of 33mm. This reduction in stack height provides shorter riders with greater flexibility in achieving their desired saddle height without compromising clearance or bike fit.
Use a Short Stack Height Saddle:
Several saddle options offer short stack heights, catering to riders with limited clearance requirements:
| Saddle Model | Stack Height (mm) |
|---|---|
| WTB Gravelier | 41.2mm |
| Specialized Power | 41.5mm |
| WTB Silverado | 42.5mm |
| Nukeproof Horizon | n/a |
| Specialized Romin | 44mm |
| Specialized Phenom | 46mm |
Shorter Cranks:
160mm or Shorter Cranks:
Most cranks come in standard lengths between 170mm and 175mm, regardless of bike size. However, shorter cranks, such as those measuring 160mm or 165mm, can offer benefits for those with limited hip flexibility, are shorter riders, or just prefer quicker cadences. For a given bike fit, reducing crank size from 170mm to 165mm would allow one to raise the seatpost by 5mm.
Pros:
- Reduced Knee Strain: Shorter cranks can help alleviate strain on the knees by reducing the range of motion required for each pedal stroke.
- Improved Pedaling Efficiency: With a shorter crank length, riders may experience improved pedaling efficiency, especially at higher cadences.
- Better Ground Clearance: Shorter cranks provide better ground clearance, reducing the risk of pedal strikes on rough terrain.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: While options are available from Shimano, SRAM, and other major component manufacturers, shorter crank lengths are quite a bit less commonly available.
- Potential Adjustment Period: Switching to shorter cranks may require an adjustment period for riders accustomed to longer crank lengths.
- Impact on Torque: While shorter cranks can improve pedaling efficiency at higher cadences, they may reduce torque output for riders who prefer to pedal at lower cadences.
These saddles may provide the comfort and performance desired while accommodating the specific needs of shorter riders. Similar to shoes, saddles comfort is very individual specific, and is worth working with your local bike shop and/or bike fitter to find what works best for you. If you know of any other saddles with low stack heights, leave a comment and help out your fellow riders!
Still need a bit more clearance? Try using a different pair of shoes with taller soles, or add spacers to an existing pair of shoes to get 1-3mm of additional height. Spaces can be purchased, or even made DIY by cutting out plastic destined for recycling. I hope this gives you the clearance you need to more thoroughly enjoy the ride!
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