Variator seatposts on test: SDG Tellis V2 - affordable seatpost with plenty of travel

The second generation of the SDG Tellis dropper post has not been on the market for long and has already been reduced by almost 70 euros. This makes the Tellis V2 a real bargain. If you don't need a new remote, you can get a dropper post for just 200 euros and in all conceivable lengths and diameters - down to 27.2 mm. In addition to the post, the packaging only contains a brief instruction leaflet - unfortunately only in English - and three small shims to reduce the stroke. This can be shortened between 5, 10 and 20 mm.

Interested parties must order the remote separately. However, 28 euros is more than fair. You can choose between a clamp, Sram Matchmaker or Shimano i-Spec EV as the adapter for the handlebars.

A special feature of the Tellis V2 is the unusually short seat clamp. On the one hand, this is intended to make assembly easier and, on the other, to shorten the stack. At 55 mm, the stack is slightly smaller than on the old Tellis, but in comparison there are posts that are significantly flatter - such as the Oneup V3 dropper post.

Assembly of the SDG Telescopic support

The brief instructions for the Tellis explain simply and clearly how to determine the right cable length - not many manufacturers offer this. Connecting the support to the remote is then no problem: Attach the cable to the post, feed it through the outer sleeve and clamp it to the lever with a 3mm Allen key. The whole thing is done in just a few minutes, great!

The new Tellis has a very compact saddle mount, which is designed to make fitting the saddle easier. Unfortunately, it's not as easy as the instructions suggest and fitting the saddle quickly turns into a fiddly job. Other supports are much better at this.

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.

Operation & function

On a positive note, the lever of the Tellis can be adjusted in all planes. The paddle can also be turned forwards or backwards at an angle. Only the lateral offset is somewhat limited. When operated, the slightly inwardly curved and ribbed lever sits comfortably on the thumb. However, the lever travel is rather long and not very defined.

When retracting, the telescopic support does not run too smoothly in the guide and grinds a little. The extension speed is relatively slow and cannot be individually adjusted. The cartridge also smacks when extending and doesn't run too smoothly, but docks at the top with a clean click. The locking mechanism in the lowered position is ok, but it comes up a little when pulled slightly. Even after several weeks of use, we have not noticed any saddle play, either sideways or downwards.

Info & Price SDG Tellis V2 Vario seatpost

• Price200,60 Euro / 27,98 Euro
• Weight¹569 / 662 g (support / ready to ride)
• Stroke: 75/ 100/ 125/ 150/ 170/ 200/ 230 mm (tested)
• Diameter30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9 mm (tested)
• Length / insertion depth¹502 /143 -275 mm (min. - max.)
• Stack height¹: 55 mm
• Scope of delivery: Support; shims for stroke reduction; separate lever; instructions
• Special features: Stroke can be reduced by 5/10/20mm; slim prop head with cleverly designed saddle clamp; many lengths available

Conclusion & evaluation

The new Tellis telescopic support is particularly exciting because of its very favourable price and the numerous versions available. The stroke can also be adjusted at a later date. Otherwise, the SDG is only mediocre. Its lever is extensively adjustable, but the lever travel is long and not very defined. The post runs slightly rough and with a constant smacking noise. In comparison, it also extends rather slowly. The Tellis does not offer a speed adjustment option. Even after a long ride, the SDG is still free of play.

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.