Variable seatposts on test: Crankbrothers Highline XC - conspicuously inconspicuous dropper post
Stefan Frey
· 15.08.2024
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The Crankbrothers Highline XC comes with all the necessary tools. Crankbrothers even includes carbon assembly paste. This is commendable, as most XC seatposts are probably also fitted to bikes with carbon frames. Only the lever has to be ordered separately, as with most other manufacturers.
Fitting the Crankbrothers Highline XC dropper post
As with the normal Highline, there are no instructions in the box for the XC version, which is a shame. So you have to go back to the website to find out how to install it. The instructions are reasonably clear, but consist mainly of pictures, which are not always immediately self-explanatory.
Connecting the post and remote is one of the easiest things to do with Crankbrothers. Apart from a 2mm Allen key, you don't need any tools or materials. Hook the cable into the post, thread it through the outer sleeve and fix it to the remote - done.
How does the telescopic support get onto the bike? It's actually quite simple. With our step-by-step guide the installation of the lowerable seat post is no problem.
Ease of use & function
The lever with its special ball head is unique on the market and cannot be found on any other prop. The Highline therefore offers plenty of room for manoeuvre to position the thumb paddle in any desired direction. Everyone is guaranteed to find a suitable position. Even if it is inconvenient to fix - the screw for this is located at the bottom on the back - the Crankbrothers remote is probably one of the best levers for telescopic supports. The operating force is low and the lever travel is pleasantly short. A small criticism: the thumb lever with its comfortable rubber coating is slightly wobbly in its mounting.
The XC version of the Highline also has little to criticise in terms of function. The support glides through the stroke with little counter-pressure. Only the extension speed could be a little higher. Although there is also an acoustic end stop, it is rather low and not very audible. Unfortunately, the speed of the support cannot be adjusted to personal preference. After the first few rides, the support is still virtually free of lateral play.
Price & Info - Crankbrothers Highline XC telescopic post
- Price: 249.99 / 69.99 Euro (support / remote) >> available here
- Weight¹: 453 / 45 g (support / ready to ride)
- Stroke: 60/ 80/ 100/ 125 mm (tested)
- Diameter: 27,2 mm (tested)
- Length / insertion depth¹: 423 / 125 - 263 mm
- Stack height¹: 59 mm
- Scope of delivery: Support; mounting material; remote available separately
- Special features: Also available in a 60 mm version with shortened immersion tubes
Conclusion & evaluation
Of all things, the XC version of the Crankbrothers Highline has to make allowances for weight. Otherwise, we have almost nothing but positive things to say about the slim seatpost. The lever is smooth-running and offers extensive adjustment options. Its rubberised surface has a good grip. The post itself glides through the stroke without much resistance and we have not noticed any saddle play so far. However, the extension speed is quite slow and cannot be adjusted. Otherwise a consistently good choice.
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
Editor
