Until now, wireless telescopic seatposts on e-mountain bikes have been something of a contradiction: the bike has a large battery and a control unit, yet the seatpost still comes with its own battery and its own lever, which is also battery-powered. Giant is taking a different approach with the new Contact Switch E+. The new wireless seatpost draws its power from the bike’s main battery and is operated via the new, wireless RideControl Ergo 5, which also controls the entire e-system of the e-MTB. The concept is on display for the first time on the new Giant Trance Advanced E+. More exciting than any single new feature, therefore, is the question: will an e-bike with lots of electronic components finally become a well-coordinated system?
Two problems have been solved that electronic struts previously presented
Conventional wireless droppers, such as the Rockshox Reverb AXS or the Fox Transfer Neo are easy to fit, as there is no need to run a control cable from the handlebars to the seatpost. However, this added freedom comes at a price: a separate battery needs to be charged and, on many models, is visible on the seatpost. Ironically, this creates an additional charging requirement, particularly on e-MTBs with large battery packs. Our previous test has already shown that such pros and cons really do matter in practice. Comparison of adjustable seat posts.
The Contact Switch E+ does not require a separate seatpost battery. Giant confirms that power is supplied via the e-bike’s main battery, meaning there is no need for an additional charger for the seatpost. This is more than just a cosmetic tid-up: before setting off on a ride, you have one less power source to worry about. Conversely, the need to connect to the e-bike means that the solution is tied to a compatible system. The wireless control means the seatpost is not a completely wireless component.
Real progress is at the handlebars
The controls are at least as important. The support button is integrated into Giant’s new RideControl Ergo 5, which can also be used to control the functions of the electric drive. This means an additional dropper post lever does not take up any space on the handlebars. This is a practical advantage, particularly where the brake levers, gear shifters and motor controls are all vying for space where your thumb rests. The button assignments can be customised via the RideControl app.
During our initial test ride, the ergonomics and handling were impressive: the seatpost lever is easily accessible, and lowering and extending the seatpost worked reliably. This is in line with our initial assessment of the Trance Advanced E+, but it is no substitute for a long-term test to assess wear and tear, wireless connectivity or servicing. One point needs clarifying: the fact that there is no separate seatpost battery does not mean that the entire cockpit is battery-free. The wireless Ergo 5 requires replaceable button cells – but only one per lever. Thanks to the wireless design, there is no cable clutter on the handlebars at all.
Fox takes a similar view, but not all forms of integration are the same
Giant is not alone in its concept of a wireless seatpost powered by the e-bike. Fox has also recently announced the Transfer Neo E-Optimised, a model that draws power from the e-bike’s drive system. The difference in terms of the handlebars remains striking: Fox still provides its own wireless lever, which is available separately. Giant’s solution integrates the power supply and operation of the seatpost with its own e-bike platform.
Availability also warrants a more nuanced assessment. The Fox solution is not merely a concept; Fox markets it as a product. The crucial factor, however, is whether it is compatible with the e-bike system in question. Initially, it was limited to just a few compatible models, as our Classification of the Transfer Neo E-Optimized shows. Anyone comparing different systems should therefore not only consider travel and weight, but also the mounting, clearance and suitability for use on the specific bike. With its solution, Giant certainly offers a coherent, complete system, which, with the new Trance Advanced E+ and its sister model Liv Intrigue Advanced E+ will be available very soon.
The next step towards integration also requires openness
The Contact Switch E+ clearly illustrates what the next stage of development in e-MTBs is aiming for: not every electronic component should come with its own little ecosystem. When the battery, control unit and accessories work together, the bike becomes easier to use in everyday life, rather than simply becoming more technically complex.
The downside is the reliance on the system. Anyone wishing to replace the support, control unit or drive individually at a later date will need to pay closer attention to compatibility. Only practical experience will show how easy it is to maintain, retrofit or use this system across different model generations. Our initial verdict: Giant solves two real everyday annoyances with electronic dropper posts in one go. The next step for the industry would be to combine this convenience with long-term interchangeability and compatibility.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD