Best: Seatpost suspension

Exploring the Best Suspension Seatposts for Your Needs

In this article, we will take you on a detailed exploration of the best suspension seatpost options. It’s a challenging task because you might be looking for one suitable for a mountain bike, while another person rides an electric bike, and yet someone else prefers a speed pedelec or a cargo bike. As diverse as our readers are, so are the available options. Keep this in mind as you read through this article.

Our goal is to provide you with the best possible advice on which suspension seatpost might be suitable for your specific situation. Your budget is also an important factor: you can purchase an additional suspension seatpost from as low as 15 euros, but some models can cost up to 300-400 euros.

We also organize these suspension seatposts by price range. Naturally, the best suspension seatposts (typically the most expensive ones) are listed at the top of the list.

Kinekt 3.1

Carbon suspension seatpost, the best we’ve tested

What’s Good:

• Significantly reduces vibrations and shocks, increasing comfort during long rides.
• Adjustable resilience makes it suitable for riders of various weights.
• Durable construction with carbon fiber, making it a lightweight option.
• Easy to install and adjust with the included springs for different weight classes.
• Compatible with various bikes, including road bikes, gravel bikes, and mountain bikes.
• Provides a smooth riding experience, even on the roughest terrains.
• Enhances traction and control through improved ground connection.

What’s Less:

• On the pricey side compared to traditional seatposts.
• May be perceived as heavy by some users, especially when compared to non-suspension seatposts.
• May not be suitable for very heavy riders (>250 lbs / 113 kg) without the upcoming design update.
• May develop some noises after prolonged use without regular maintenance.
• Also a premium seatpost suspension with a high purchase price as a result.

The Kinekt 3.1 seatpost, designed by Cirrus Cycles, is an advanced solution for cyclists aiming for a more comfortable riding experience, especially on rough terrain.

When we say rough terrain, we don’t mean it’s only for gravel or mountain biking. Also, at high speeds, such as on the speed pedelec, where shocks are felt much harder, a premium seatpost suspension like this is valuable. We’ve been able to test and use the Kinekt 3.1 for almost 100 kilometers. The spring quality and adjustments are a significant advantage over cheaper variants.

For many people, a slightly simpler elastomer saddle suspension will be sufficient. If you really want that extra step, then we recommend the Kinekt 3.1. Due to the purchase price, it won’t be for everyone, and if you’re riding on flat terrain, in our opinion, you don’t need it.

The Kinekt 3.1 is available in various sizes and can be adjusted with different springs to accommodate the weight and riding style of the cyclist.

This seatpost utilizes carbon fiber, light but also strong and stiff. This makes it a good alternative for weight-conscious riders, such as road cyclists or gravel bikers. But we also see it as a good choice on a speed pedelec.

The ability to adjust the resilience ensures that riders of different weight classes can enjoy a tailored riding experience.

Key specifications:

• Weight: 471 g
• Spring elements: Available with 6 springs, adjustable for cyclists from 25 kg to 108 kg
• Maximum rider weight: Adjustable for 25 kg to 108 kg
• Stack height: Not specified
• Travel distance: 0 – 35 mm
• Offset: Shims available for diameters larger than 27.2 mm
• Length: 330 mm or 380 mm
• Tube diameter: 27.2 mm or 31.6 mm (with a thickness adapter)
• Material: Carbon Fiber with stainless steel hardware and Igus bushings​​​​​​.

Thudbuster ST

Premium seatpost suspension at a slightly higher budget – under € 250

What’s Good:

• Effectively reduces the impact of road irregularities.
• The parallelogram design maintains the distance between saddle and pedal while riding.
• Includes three different elastomers to adapt to various rider weights.
• Completely silent during use.
• Offers two different travel distances for customization.
• Suitable for bike touring and tandem use.
• Significantly increases comfort on gravel roads and rough terrain.
• Can compete with the best seatpost suspensions.

What’s Less:

• Requires adjustment of riding style to avoid bobbing up and down while pedaling.
• Not the lightest seatpost on the market.
• Fewer adjustment options than top-tier models.

The Thudbuster ST by Cane Creek is an advanced seatpost at an above-average price point. If you’re seeking a balance of price and quality within an elevated range of performance, this is the right choice.

The Thudbuster LT is also excellent. It’s featured on our Multicharger. Designed for rougher terrain with its longer travel, providing more comfort on truly bad roads or trails. It’s ideal for bikepacking or mountain biking where the surface is consistently rough.

This product also utilizes a parallelogram design, effectively absorbing shocks and vibrations without affecting the distance between the saddle and pedals. This ensures a smoother riding experience, especially on uneven terrain where traditional seatposts fall short. If you occasionally go off-road or have a bike without suspension, this will serve you well.

The Thudbuster ST is equipped with a system of interchangeable elastomers, which can be adjusted to the rider’s weight. With two available travel options, it offers both subtle and more noticeable damping, depending on the user’s preference.

Crafted from durable materials like forged alloy and hard-anodized aluminum, it ensures both strength and longevity. Aluminum is also corrosion-resistant, giving you an advantage over steel variants.

It operates completely silently, contributing to a quiet and comfortable ride. It’s particularly suitable for long distances, bikepacking, and tandem cycling where comfort is crucial.

As a funny anecdote, I know my seatpost suspension works well because when I ride over cobblestones, dirt roads, or forest paths, I mainly hear my child sitting on the rear rack without this extra suspension. “Stop, too much, bumps, slower, slower”!

There are drawbacks as well. It’s certainly not a cheap seatpost suspension. Additionally, it’s not a lightweight option, which may be a consideration for riders who want to keep their bikes as light as possible. For truly weight-conscious cyclists or heavy gravel/mountain bikers, a premium seatpost suspension seems like an even better option.

With a price around €150, the Thudbuster ST falls into the elevated price segment, comparable to the BBB or Kinekt 2.1 but not as high as the absolute premium seatpost suspensions. With all its benefits and high quality, this is a reasonable price to significantly increase your comfort. It’s still a purchase, but one that is valuable.

Key specifications for the Thudbuster ST:

• Material: Forged aluminum​​.
• Design: Parallelogram linkage.
• Travel distance: Approximately 50 mm​​.
• Rearward offset: 0 mm (unweighted)​​.
• Total length: Available in lengths of 345 mm for diameter 27.2 mm and 375 mm for diameters 30.9/31.6 mm​​.
• Minimum insertion depth: Not specified in the sources.
• Weight: Approximately 580 g for the G4 version according to certain specifications​​.

Note that these specifications may vary depending on the specific model and version of the Thudbuster ST you’re considering.

Schulz G.2

Our choice based on price / quality

What’s Good:

• Offers maximum comfort by adapting to different rider weights.
• Progressive suspension and parallel linkage technology.
• Low stack height and sleek design.
• High suspension comfort and sensitive response.
• High-quality AL-6066-T6 aluminum, 3D forged for extra strength.
• Available in various diameters and lengths, fits many bikes.
• Easy to replace spring elements.
• Available accessories such as mud protection.

What’s Less:

• Looks large and bulky under the saddle.
• Starting price of €139.95 makes it an expensive seatpost suspension.
• Reduced damping in cold conditions.
• Weight of 590 g heavier than average (important for road bikes).

The Schulz G.2 is designed with a unique combination of progressive suspension and parallel linkage technology, making it an exceptional choice for both e-bikes and conventional bicycles.

It is a premium seatpost suspension and therefore not inexpensive. Due to its high quality, it is also suitable for heavier cyclists, as this spring can handle up to 150 kg and offers a lot of comfort.

The seatpost offers adjustable spring elements in 5 different hardness levels, allowing riders to tune the spring response to their weight and riding style. The low stack height and sleek design make it not only aesthetically appealing but also functional in use.

The G.2 is positioned in the higher price segment for suspension seatposts, which is reflected in the quality and features offered. It performs favorably even at high speeds. For example, Ellio offers this Schultz G.2 as an option. The Kinekt 3.1 is slightly better, which we could test on the Ellio Max review.

It is an investment in riding comfort and performance, especially for avid cyclists or those who regularly ride on varied terrain. A bike with suspension in the fork or frame is much more expensive than one without suspension. With a fifth of this cost, you can significantly improve your comfort. A seatpost suspension is expensive, but a broken back is too.

The Schulz G.2 stands out as a premium suspension seatpost that provides a significant upgrade in terms of comfort and performance.

Key specifications:

• Weight: From approximately 590 g (for Ø 27.2 / 350 mm)
• Spring elements: In 5 different hardness levels, easy to replace
• Maximum rider weight: 150 kg
• Stack height: Approximately 99 mm
• Travel distance: Approximately 30 mm
• Offset: Approximately 17 mm
• Length: 350 – 450 mm (can be cut to size)
• Tube diameter: 26.4 – 34.9 mm
• Material: AL-6066-T6, 3D forged​​.

Suntour SP12-NCX

The best suspension seatpost for daily use under 100 euros

What’s Good:

• Effectively absorbs small and large bumps.
• Equipped with stainless steel bushings and a parallelogram design that maintains consistent saddle height.
• Suitable for riders between 65-95 kg with adjustable spring tension.
• Compatible with saddles with 7×7 mm round rails, available in various diameters and lengths.
• Good price / quality option.
• Minimal effort required for mounting and adjustments.
• Availability of extra spring elements and protectors for further customization and protection.

What’s Less:

• The saddle angle cannot be precisely adjusted due to the rough-cut clamp.
• Raises the minimum seating position, which may be a concern for shorter riders.

In the comfort test conducted by the German magazine RADtouren Genuss Spezial 2020, the Suntour SP12-NCX (27.2/350) scored 33 points and a grade of 1.8. The feedback emphasizes that the seatpost carries the rider comfortably over rough sections, with a quick spring reset, and a well-absorbed rebound speed.

The Suntour SP12-NCX is a popular choice among e-bike riders. It is an excellent option for those looking for a good price / quality suspension seatpost. Not the best, but far from the worst.

The Suntour SP12-NCX is made of aluminum, providing both strength and lightness. The seatpost utilizes a parallel linkage design with a stainless steel bushing, contributing to its durability and smooth operation.

The main advantage (besides price) is the travel distance of approximately 48 mm. The seatpost also offers a rearward offset of about 25 mm and a total length of 350 mm or 400 mm, depending on the variant.

The minimum insertion depth is set at 65 mm, ensuring secure mounting. The weight for the Ø 27.2 mm variant is approximately 779 g, which is reasonable for a suspension seatpost.

Key Specifications:

• Material: Aluminum
• Design: Parallel linkage
• Travel Distance: Approximately 48 mm
• Rearward Offset: Approximately 25 mm
• Total Length: 350 / 400 mm
• Minimum Insertion Depth: 65 mm
• Weight: Approximately 779 g for Ø 27.2 mm model

In summary, slightly less than top models but still very good for the average daily cyclist.

BBB ActionPost BSP-42

A good quality alternative under 100 euros

What’s Good:

• Parallelogram suspension for increased comfort while riding.
• Absorbs shocks and vibrations, ideal for rough roads.
• Includes 3 interchangeable elastomers for rider weight adjustment.
• Suitable for e-bikes, enhancing versatility.
• Lightweight and stable aluminum construction.
• Easy adjustment with a single bolt.
• Available in various diameters for different bike frames.

What’s Less:

• Higher price range.

The BBB ActionPost BSP-42 is a worthy alternative that falls just below the range of Kinekt and Schultz. This model utilizes a parallelogram suspension system that effectively absorbs shocks and vibrations. The seatpost is crafted from aluminum (6061 T6), known for its lightweight and stability, contributing to an enjoyable riding experience without added weight.

The BSP-42 comes with three interchangeable elastomers, allowing users to adjust the suspension according to their weight. The seatpost is also suitable for electric bikes.

The product is available in various diameters (27.2 mm, 30.9 mm, and 31.6 mm) and with a length of 400 mm, ensuring a good fit on various bike frames. The 20 mm setback helps in finding the ideal seating position, crucial for long rides and avoiding discomfort or injuries.

The downside is that this suspension seatpost does not offer the same controlled suspension as the top models. Compared to other elastomer suspensions, the price of the BBB ActionPost BSP-42 is higher.

Key Specifications:

• Type: Suspension seatpost
• Material: Aluminum
• Diameter: Available in 27.2 mm, 30.9 mm, and 31.6 mm
• Offset: 20 mm
• Maximum Load: Not specifically stated, but designed for optimization with additional elastomers for rider weight
• Suspension System: Elastomer
• Purpose: Suitable for all types of bikes, including E-bikes, MTB, road, and touring​​​​.
• Length: 400 mm
• Weight: Approx. 495g for 27.2mm, 489g for 30.9mm, and 500g for 31.6mm diameter​​.

Red Cycling Products Raddozer

A cheaper option for saddle suspension – under 50 euros

What’s Good:

• Effectively dampens vibrations and unevenness of cobblestones or gravel roads.
• The damping allows you to cover more kilometers with more comfort.
• Specifically designed for mountain bikes.
• Made of aluminum, providing both strength and lightness.
• Simple installation.
• With an offset of 17 mm and a diameter of 27.2 mm (also available in 31.6 mm), it offers flexibility for various bike setups.

What’s Not So Good:

• Although versatile, it’s most effective within a specific weight range (70-90kg).
• Less durable than premium models.
• Less deep suspension than the best seatpost suspension.

The Red Cycling Products Raddozer suspension seatpost offers an affordable solution for cyclists seeking more comfort. Compared to premium seatposts such as the Kinekt 2.1 and the Redshift ShockStop, the Raddozer positions itself as a more budget-friendly option.

The Kinekt 2.1, for example, is renowned for its highly effective damping thanks to the combination of two springs that enable a frictionless vertical movement of 35mm, with the ability to adjust the suspension to the rider’s weight and personal preference.

On the other hand, the Redshift ShockStop offers internal spring damping with a promised 35mm of adjustable suspension. This design aims to efficiently absorb shocks without much energy loss during cycling, especially noticeable during climbing or on flatter roads.

While this cheaper Raddozer may not offer the same advanced customization options or the same level of damping as these more expensive models, it still provides significant improvements in comfort and fatigue reduction for a fraction of the price.

This makes it an excellent choice for cyclists on a tighter budget who still want to enjoy the benefits of a good suspension seatpost.

In terms of price segment, the Raddozer positions significantly lower than premium options like the Kinekt and the Redshift, which are priced around 150 to 250 euros, respectively. The lower price of the Raddozer (25 euros) makes it an accessible option for a broader audience seeking improved riding comfort without a substantial investment.

Main Specifications:

• Type: Suspension seatpost
• Material: Aluminum
• Diameter: Available in 27.2 mm and 31.6 mm
• Offset: 17 mm
• Maximum Load: 130 kg
• Spring System: Elastomer
• Purpose: Mountain Bike (MTB)
• Length: 350 mm

Comparing Suspension Seatposts in Depth

When comparing suspension seatposts, various aspects need to be taken into consideration. Firstly, there are different types of suspension seatposts, which partly explain the significant price differences. Based on this, you can already make an initial choice, as some types are better suited for certain routes or trails.

Additionally, factors such as the travel for load, design, materials used, and the ultimate shock absorption need to be considered. As a cyclist, you might also desire a certain degree of adjustability, and of course, the suspension seatpost should be easy to install. The last crucial point to consider is whether it is compatible with your bike.

All these points are extensively explained in our buying guide to choose the right suspension seatpost. In this article, we mainly focus on the products themselves. And although there are many suspension seatposts on the market, we have made a selection for this list. This doesn’t mean that other options are necessarily inadequate. There are suspension seatposts that are technically excellent but may be slightly too pricey or very specific in their application.

We recommend conducting additional research, visiting the bike shop, and if possible, trying out a few different suspension seatposts. Below is a list of top performers that we have not included in this selection.

Notable Suspension Seatpost Brands

Cane Creek Thudbuster LT vs. ST

• Thudbuster LT is designed for rougher terrain with its longer travel, providing more comfort on truly bad roads or trails. It’s ideal for bikepacking or mountain biking where the terrain is consistently rough.
• Thudbuster ST has a shorter travel, making it better suited for lighter terrain or for cyclists who prefer a subtler damping. It’s a good middle ground for those who are in between pure racing and off-road adventures.

Cirrus Cycles Kinekt

• Kinekt stands out with adjustable spring tension and dual-spring construction, making it extremely adaptable for weight and riding style. It’s unique in its ability to be finely tuned, making it ideal for riders who want to fine-tune their ride for maximum comfort.

Redshift ShockStop

• ShockStop offers an internal spring construction designed to effectively absorb shocks and vibrations without much movement or energy loss during pedaling. It’s especially valued on mixed terrain, where maintaining efficiency is as important as comfort.

SR Suntour NCX

• NCX is praised for its durability and good performance at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and touring. While it may not offer the fine-tuning of more expensive models, it delivers reliable comfort for a wide range of cyclists.

by.Schulz G.2

• G.2 varies in travel options (LT for longer travel and ST for shorter travel) and spring strengths, making it suitable for almost any rider and any situation. It stands out for its versatility and the wide range of available sizes, making it compatible with almost any bike.

PNW Coast Suspension Dropper

• Unique to PNW Coast is the combination of dropper post functionality with suspension, allowing riders to benefit from both height adjustment and shock absorption. This makes it particularly suitable for technical terrain where adjusting saddle height is crucial for control and comfort.

Our Opinion on Suspension Seatposts

The importance of suspension seatposts – and stem suspension – is often relatively underestimated. While it may be a costly component, it is also a crucial factor for your riding comfort and the well-being of your back. A good suspension prevents injuries, makes cycling more enjoyable, and adequately absorbs shocks. In short, good suspension is not a luxury but a necessity.

Within the market of electric bikes, cargo bikes, and speed pedelecs, we unfortunately often see manufacturers cutting costs on suspension. They assume that the infrastructure will improve and that a good route is essential. However, for you as a consumer, this results in less comfort on the current roads.

Although suspension is necessary, too much suspension can also lead to injuries. It is therefore important to have suspension seatposts that are of high quality, effectively absorb shocks, and increase comfort without increasing the risk of long-term injuries. This requires complex designs that can withstand considerable weight, and therefore prices can quickly range around 100 to 200 euros.

In our opinion, this investment is more than worth it, especially for users who consistently benefit from it. As a back patient, I have always ensured to have suspension seatposts on my bike that are well suited to my usage, riding style, and comfort needs. Although it may be less necessary for certain bikes than others, it’s good to know that with suspension seatposts, you always have the option to improve your comfort.