TranzX EDP01 testWhat can the affordable electric dropper post do?

Stefan Frey

 · 20.09.2024

Can electric also be cheap? With the EDP01, TranzX has an inexpensive alternative to the E-Vario seatposts from Rockshox and Co
Photo: Stefan Frey

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While you have to invest well over 600 euros for an electronic dropper post from Rockshox and Kind Shock, the TranzX EDP01 Dropper Post is available for just under 500 euros. We were able to test ride the inexpensive dropper post.

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If you are fundamentally against electronics on MTBs, you can stop reading here. However, for those who want to enjoy the benefits of an electronic dropper post - simple installation, no cables, simple operation - the TranzX could be an inexpensive alternative to an electronic dropper post. Rockshox Reverb AXS or to Fox's new and expensive Transfer Neo be.

Assembly without any effort

During assembly, the EDP01 dropper post proved to be as user-friendly as all electric posts. The remote and post came already coupled out of the box. Thanks to the screw-in clamp, the saddle was also fitted more quickly than with most other posts. Although the remote also fits on the Sram Matchmaker clamp, we felt somewhat restricted when it came to lateral positioning. The overlong and not very stylish plastic lever didn't help much either - it wasn't possible to find a really optimal position on every brake lever combination.

The poorly defined plastic lever offers no additional lateral adjustment optionsPhoto: Stefan FreyThe poorly defined plastic lever offers no additional lateral adjustment options

Similar to the Reverb, the post head is also quite high, which means that the stroke (150, 175 or 200 mm) can be used less effectively. The battery is well protected behind a cover under the saddle. According to the manufacturer, one charge lasts for approx. 6000 descents, although we topped up the battery every few rides to be on the safe side.

Caution: During long car journeys, the battery can run down because the Vario seat post is taken out of standby mode when it is moved - if the red LED flashes, there are still approx. 500 operations left. The LED on the side of the housing shows whether there is still enough charge for the next tour. The manufacturer does not offer an app that can be used to check the battery status before setting off, but a glance at the LED is probably enough information for most bikers.

Every manufacturer cooks its own soup here. Each electric prop relies on its own battery. This one is supposed to last 6000 operationsPhoto: Stefan FreyEvery manufacturer cooks its own soup here. Each electric prop relies on its own battery. This one is supposed to last 6000 operations

In our last test, a total of 15 Vario seatposts had to show what they are made of. You can find out which is the best telescopic support on the market in our big comparison.

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Problem-free function, low extension speed

The function of the TranzX itself is flawless, and it also has very little lateral play. This also remained the case during our test. The extension speed was a little slow in its original state, which is why we used the shock pump to help. However, even with maximum pressure in the cartridge, the post only extends relatively slowly. In addition, some air always escaped from the cartridge when we unscrewed the pump.

Despite maximum pressure in the cartridge, the TranzX extends somewhat slowlyPhoto: Stefan FreyDespite maximum pressure in the cartridge, the TranzX extends somewhat slowly

Communication between the remote and the dropper post via Bluetooth also lags behind the speed of an AXS. We felt the seatpost responded with minimal delay and a somewhat noisy motor. The thumb paddle didn't convince us much in terms of feel and only provides restrained feedback. Despite all the criticism: With the TranzX EDP01, technology fans get a solid electronic dropper post at a fair price.

The battery is protected under an additional cover. The single-screw clamp on the saddle is practicalPhoto: Stefan FreyThe battery is protected under an additional cover. The single-screw clamp on the saddle is practical

Price & Info - TranzX EDP01 dropper post

  • Price: 499 Euro >> available here
  • Weight¹: 701/ 69 g (support / remote)
  • Stroke: 150/ 170 / 200 mm (tested)
  • Diameter: 30,9 / 31.6 mm (tested)
  • Length / insertion depth¹: 507 / 137- 259 mm
  • Stack height¹: 60 mm
  • Scope of delivery: Support; remote incl. clamp; battery; charger
  • Special features: Adjustable air pressure; Bluetooth
If you don't mind the haptics and low extension speed, the TranzX is a solid alternative to the expensive top dogsPhoto: Stefan FreyIf you don't mind the haptics and low extension speed, the TranzX is a solid alternative to the expensive top dogs

Conclusion & evaluation

+ simple installation; clearly visible battery indicator; good value for money

- Quite heavy; battery drains during long car journey; slow extension; loud actuator motor; lever positioning; no app

The TranzX does not come close to the function of the Reverb AXS. Nevertheless, it is a solid alternativePhoto: Stefan FreyThe TranzX does not come close to the function of the Reverb AXS. Nevertheless, it is a solid alternative

¹BIKE measured values. Weight: telescopic seat post / ready to ride: seat post, remote, 1.5 m outer shell, cable pull ²The BIKE grade is independent of price. The BIKE rating is based on the school grading system with grades 1 to 5.

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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