Although the manufacturer Eightpins doesn't want to reveal any details yet, we have already been able to chase a pre-production sample over the Isar trails. With its mechanical function (without any susceptible hydraulics inside) and its integrated design, the Eightpins represents a new generation of dropper seatposts. Instead of clamping the post to the end of the seat tube as usual, it is fixed in the frame just above the bottom bracket by means of a cross bolt. It is therefore not possible to retrofit it to normal frames. In model year 2017, the Eightpins will be available exclusively on the latest Liteville bikes.
The effective saddle height and the adjustment range can be set internally. Different cartridges are fitted depending on the frame size. A drop of between 150 and an almost bottomless 220 millimetres (!) is possible. In the event of a fall, a special clutch allows the saddle and seat post to rotate away. This prevents rotational forces from damaging the mechanics. The fact that the Eightpins is supposed to be lighter than many of its competitors at 440 to 550 grams is just a side effect. And this despite the maximum stability of the 33 millimetre diameter support.
The Eightpins made a very good impression in the practical test. The mechanical clamping works crisply and locks the post securely. Lifting or shouldering the saddle is unproblematic even when the post is lowered. The 6 mm increments are just as practical as the stepless adjustment of the competition. The low operating forces are striking. The seat post is lowered with almost no resistance. The remote lever also moves smoothly - even under full load. It harmonises both with and without a left-hand shift lever. When extending, the Eightpins works quickly with a clearly audible end stop, but does so with so little pressure that you hardly feel it. This takes some getting used to.
PLUS Even if only ridden briefly, the Eightpins makes a promising first impression, both functionally and technically.
MINUS Due to its integration, the Eightpins is only compatible with specially designed frames. In model year 2017 exclusively on Liteville bikes.
Weight 430 to 550 grammes
Info www.eightpins.at
