KS’s latest LEV is light,well priced, flex free, available in lots of options and more reliable than most of its rivals. Its large-diameter upper shaft means it flexes noticeably less in longer lengths or on bikes with slack seat angles than most posts when pedalling. The low weight will appeal to XC/trail riders, and there’s even a 27.2mm version (100mm stroke) for hardtails and older frames. It’s got a smooth and easilycontrolled stroke, with a solid top-out thunk that leaves no doubt that it has re-extended. Pricing is OK too, with a 100/125mm model at $435, 150mm at $465 and 175mm at $510. KS’s shifter-style ‘Southpaw’ lever ($55 alloy, $90 carbon) is much nicer to use than the short ‘universal’ knuckle lever that comes as standard. The way that the post extends if you pick the bike up by the saddle is a pet hate of some people.We do still occasionally get LEVs that need a nudge or pull to extend them too, but that’s less common than it used to be.
Weight 576g
Stroke 100, 125, 150, 175mm
Diameters 27.2, 30.9, 31.6, 34.9mm
Max length 450mm
Internal length 250mm
Price $520 (with alloy Southpaw lever)
