Skip to main content

Brand-X Ascend XL dropper post


The Ascend range from Brand-X offers reliable, no-nonsense performance in sizes to suit most bikes at total-bargain prices. This 150mmstroke XL version is the latest addition to the family, but uses the same proven mechanism as the 120mm post ($210). It comes with a wobbly but functional shifter-style remote lever for 1x transmissions but a vertical ‘universal’ lever is also available. Cable fitting and set-up is the typically fiddly affair of all posts that put the nipple at the lever end, but the linkage actuator means operation is smooth enough. Return speed is acceptable without any danger of neutering you, and the top-out is discernible. Despite costing less for a new post than it does to service some droppers,Ascend reliability is better than most, making it a no-brainer if you’re watching your wallet. There’s also an externally-routed 125mm Ascend II for $210 and a 27.2mm version for the same price (85mm or 105mm stroke, internal).

Weight 637g
Stroke 150mm
Diameters 30.9, 31.6mm
Max length 455mm
Internal length 255mm

Price $248


Labels

Popular posts from this blog

KONA SHRED

With a reputation for no-nonsense ruggedness and a background in the always progressive and punishing riding of Canada, Kona have been building hardcore hardtails for longer than almost anyone else. The Shred is the most expensive bike on test but it’s a proper trail tank.

READ MORE >>

Nukeproof Vector AM Comp Cro-Mo saddle

The Vector AM is pretty race focused, with minimal padding. There’s a deep (if narrow) pressurerelief channel to keep the blood flowing where it’s meant to. Used with bib shorts, we found it pretty comfortable for shorter rides and suffered no pain or discomfort in the central region. On steep climbs the slightly downturned nose provides a reasonable forward perch, while the svelte profile and smooth edges make it particularly unobtrusive when moving about on the descents. It’s quite stiff though, and can feel harsh on long rides or bumpy ground. We definitely wouldn’t want to spend much time on it without a chamois. It’s heavier than we’d expect for such a lightly padded perch too. There’s a lighter Pro version with titanium rails for $105, but at 241g it’s only 10g lighter. Weight 251g Price $67

READ MORE >>

GT Zaskar Evolution

While some bike models last just a couple of years, others change with the times to stay at the top of riders’ wishlists. In the second part of this series looking at the evolution of bikes that enjoy enduring popularity with UK riders, we turn to the GT Zaskar – a bike that was at the forefront of our sport for a long time and still has plenty of appeal today.

READ MORE >>

Cannondale Trail SL 29 SS

The fat aluminium tubes are a constrast to the skinny items seen elsewhere in the test, but this rigid Cannondale uses them to create one of the most old-school - and lightest - rides here.

READ MORE >>

CANYON NERVE AL 8.0

  S ince their entry into the UK market a few years ago, Canyon have made a name for themselves as purveyors of well-made bikes that exhibit often extraordinary value. The secret (or catch, depending on your point of view) is that the brand don’t have dealers – they ship bikes directly to your door.

READ MORE >>