Your Bike Dropper Post Is Not Working? Here’s Why!

Do you ever feel like your bike dropper post is working against you

It’s supposed to make your life easier, but when it’s not working properly, it can be a major pain. You might find yourself struggling to get it up or down, or it might not stay in place.

If you’re dealing with a malfunctioning dropper post, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be frustrating to deal with. But don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue and get your dropper post working properly again.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps of troubleshooting a dropper post that’s not working. I’ll cover everything from common causes of problems to specific troubleshooting tips. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to diagnose and fix the issue so you can get back to enjoying your bike.

Most Common Reasons: Bike Dropper Post Not Working

Most Common Reasons: Bike Dropper Post Not Working

1. Air Leak

The most common reason for a dropper post not working is an air leak. This can happen if the seal around the air cartridge is damaged or if the air pressure is too low. To check for an air leak, listen for hissing sounds coming from the dropper post. You can also try to compress the post and see if it loses air. If you suspect an air leak, you can try to fix it by replacing the seal or by adding more air to the post. If this does not work, you may need to take the post to a bike shop for repairs.

2. Mechanical Failure

Another common reason for a dropper post not working is a mechanical failure. This can happen if the cable or housing is damaged, if the lever is broken, or if the internal mechanisms of the post are damaged. To check for a mechanical failure, inspect the dropper post for damage. You can also try to operate the post by hand to see if it moves smoothly. If you suspect a mechanical failure, you will need to take the post to a bike shop for repairs.

3. Electrical Problem

Dropper posts that are controlled electronically can also malfunction if there is an electrical problem. This can happen if the battery is dead, if the wiring is damaged, or if the controller is defective. To check for an electrical problem, try replacing the battery and checking the wiring. If this does not work, you may need to take the post to a bike shop for repairs.

How to Troubleshoot: Bike Dropper Post Not Working

Your dropper post is one of the most important components on your bike, and when it’s not working properly, it can be a real pain. Here are a few things to check if your dropper post is not working:

1. Is your dropper post properly installed?

The first thing you need to do is make sure that your dropper post is properly installed. Check to make sure that the post is inserted all the way into the frame and that the clamp is tight. If the post is not installed correctly, it will not be able to function properly.

2. Is your dropper post’s air pressure correct?

Most dropper posts use an air cartridge to provide the force to raise and lower the post. If the air pressure in the cartridge is too low, the post will not be able to raise all the way. If the air pressure is too high, the post will be difficult to lower.

To check the air pressure in your dropper post, you will need a shock pump. Remove the air cap from the top of the post and attach the shock pump. Pump air into the post until the pressure reaches the manufacturer’s recommended level.

3. Is your dropper post’s cable properly routed?

The cable that controls your dropper post runs from the lever on your handlebar to the post itself. If the cable is not properly routed, it can cause problems with the operation of the post.

To check the cable routing, follow the cable from the lever on your handlebar to the post itself. Make sure that the cable is not kinked or frayed. Also, make sure that the cable is routed through the correct cable guides.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you have checked all of the above and your dropper post is still not working, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

Try resetting your dropper post. To do this, extend the post all the way and then press the button on the lever to lower it. Once the post is fully lowered, release the button and then extend the post again.
Try lubricating your dropper post. A dry dropper post can be difficult to operate. To lubricate your post, use a small amount of bike grease on the inside of the post and on the cable.
If your dropper post is still not working, you may need to take it to a bike shop for repairs.

How to Fix: Bike Dropper Post Not Working

If you have determined that your dropper post is not working properly, you can try to fix it yourself. Here are the steps involved in fixing a dropper post:

1. Remove the dropper post from the frame.

To remove the dropper post, you will need to loosen the clamp that holds the post in place. Once the clamp is loosened, you can pull the post out of the frame.

2. Inspect the dropper post for damage.

Once the dropper post is removed, you can inspect it for damage. Look for cracks, dents, or other signs of damage. If you find any damage, you will need to replace the dropper post.

3. Clean the dropper post.

After you have inspected the dropper post, you will need to clean it. Use a clean rag to wipe down the inside and outside of the post.

4. Lubricate the dropper post.

Once the dropper post is clean, you will need to lubricate it. Use a small amount of bike grease on the inside of the post and on the cable.

5. Reinstall the dropper post.

Once the dropper post is lubricated, you can reinstall it in the frame. Make sure that the post is inserted all the way into the frame and that the clamp is tight.

6. Test the dropper post.

Once the dropper post is reinstalled, you can test it to make sure that it is working properly. Extend the post all the way and then press the button on the lever to lower it. The post should move smoothly and easily.

If your dropper post is still not working properly after you have tried to fix it yourself, you may need to take it to a bike shop for repairs.

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About The Author

I'm Ryan, an avid road biker who also enjoys track racing, time trials, as well as riding off-road on a mountain bike or gravel bike. I believe cycling is a good way to improve the quality of life. Regardless of your skill level or interests, we make it accessible and enjoyable.

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