RockShox Reverb AXS XPLR Dropper Post [Rider Review]

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Discover the benefits of the SRAM AXS XPLR dropper post for gravel bikes. Read our customer's review about the performance and ease of installation that the XPLR has. 

Final Thoughts

I bought my first e-gravel bike to tackle the smooth single-track trails in my backyard and surpass the 20-mile-per-hour limiter on my e-MTB. Initially, I was hesitant about getting a dropper post since I wouldn't be riding steep downhills. However, after four-plus years of riding MTB, I was accustomed to having a dropper. Fast, flowy downhill sections on my local trails convinced me that a dropper would help get the seat out of the way and allow a more aero position on long, fast descents home.

Ease of Installation and Compatibility

I wanted to avoid the hassle of cable routing as my gravel bike’s integrated cabling already complicates headset adjustments. The RockShox AXS XPLR dropper post was an easy choice because I could use my existing SRAM AXS shifters to control it. Being 5’ 7” and riding a size small frame, I opted for the 50mm drop. Though it’s not much, it’s enough and close to max insertion, making it a good decision. The alternative 75mm drop was unnecessary for my needs. An unexpected benefit was discovering my seat was too high, as I could adjust the post to find the perfect saddle height.

Performance on Trails

The supposed suspension effect from dropping the post slightly was hard to notice, but getting the seat out of the way on fast switchback sections was a game-changer. The 50mm travel allowed me to lean the bike more easily and still pedal efficiently on straight sections between turns.

Operation and Pairing

Operating the dropper with SRAM AXS shifters is seamless. Pairing the dropper to the shifters was incredibly straightforward. Pressing both shifters simultaneously operates the post, with only a couple of accidental shifts initially. The more I use it, the fewer accidental shifts occur.

Saddle Bag Compatibility

One issue is fitting a saddle bag onto the seat rails due to the battery protruding from the post. Riders with the seat slammed forward might struggle to fit a bag. My medium-sized saddle bag requires removal to open it, making a bag that opens while strapped more convenient. Bag clearance when the seat is dropped is not an issue with the 50mm drop, but it’s worth considering.

Final Thoughts

You can adjust air pressure to change the force needed to drop and the return speed, though the factory setting works perfectly for me. While not essential, the dropper post is a nice addition if budget allows. My AXS derailleur runs off my bike battery, but in emergencies, the seat post battery can power the derailleur if it dies mid-ride. Overall, the AXS XPLR dropper post is a well-built and integrated component within the AXS system, and despite the cost, I have no regrets!