Variable seatposts on test: Fox Transfer - is all that glitters really gold?

There's not much in the huge Fox box. In addition to the shimmering golden Transfer Vario seatpost, you will only find a detailed instruction leaflet, the shims to reduce the stroke and the small cable barrel that connects the cable to the seatpost. The cable and outer sleeve are only available with the purchase of the remote, which is one of the most expensive on the market. This also includes a clamp with a Matchmaker mount and an I-Spec adapter for Shimano brakes.

Fitting the Fox Transfer telescopic support

Even though the Fox manual is not exactly the size of a daily newspaper, all the installation steps are explained clearly and with good pictures. Inserting the reduction sleeves for the hub is also described in detail here.

In times when most manufacturers have understood how easy it is to fit a dropper post, it's the little things that win you over. For example, the clean guidance of the cable through the lever of the Fox post and the small bracket in which the cable can then be fixed. The rest of the assembly and the connection of the post and remote are easy and can be completed quickly with the clear instructions.

To mount the saddle, it is best to remove one of the two screws completely. However, it is not necessary to unscrew the entire saddle mount. The T-Inbus is not ideal for reaching the bolts that are very close to the upright tube. Otherwise, the assembly is intuitive.

How does the Vario seat post to the bike? It's actually quite simple. With our step-by-step guide the installation of the lowerable seat post is no problem.

Operation & function

As you would expect from a suspension expert, the lever is super defined and smooth. The lever travel is also fine. However, the option of positioning the remote is somewhat limited. It only offers two-way lateral adjustment - other levers can do much more! The ribbing on the thumb paddle provides a good grip and the lever is comfortable to hold.

The Fox vario seatpost with its golden coating runs extremely smoothly and glides gently through the stroke, albeit with slightly increased resistance in the lower part of the stroke. The extension speed is already excellent in the standard setting, the post moves up quickly and smoothly and locks with a firm click. Optionally, the speed can be adjusted via the air pressure. The locking mechanism also works perfectly when lifting. Only the saddle has minimal lateral play right from the start.

Price & Info - Fox Transfer dropper post

Price 449 / 83 Euro (support / remote)

Weight¹ 587 / 685 g (support / ready to ride)

Stroke 120/ 150/ 180/ 210/ 240 mm (tested)

Diameter 27,2 / 30,9 / 31.6 mm (tested)

Length / insertion depth¹ 505 / 127 - 287 mm

Stack height¹ 35 mm

Scope of delivery Support; operating instructions; reducing shims

Special features Stroke can be reduced by 5 to 25 mm

Conclusion & evaluation

The Fox Transfer dropper post with its elegant Kashima coating is impressive in terms of both operation and function. It runs as smooth as butter and glides gently through the stroke, with only slightly increased resistance at the end. The remote of the dropper post also sits comfortably on the thumb and is clearly defined. The only drawback is the adjustment. The many lengths - max. 240 mm! - and the low stack. Reduceable stroke and customisable speed, but somewhat heavy and very expensive. Also available as a performance version without Kashima.

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.