Suspension seat posts

When most people think about suspension on bikes, they think of rear and front suspension on mountain bikes. What doesn’t get a lot of attention is suspension in the seat post (see the figure). If you’re looking for a more comfortable ride, you might want to consider this option.

When you’re installing a suspension seat post, read the owner’s manual to understand how to preload it for your weight. Heavier riders need a stiffer suspension than lighter riders do.

Suspension posts should be set a little higher than normal because your weight will cause it drop slightly. Riding a bicycle with a suspension seat post takes a little getting used to because it’s a couple inches higher when you first get on, and then it compresses with your weight to the proper height for riding. Take your Allen wrench along when you ride and you can adjust it when needed.