Velomotion logo Velomotion small logo
Search icon
  • Product news
  • Cycling
  • Tests
    • complete wheels
    • Components
    • Accessories
  • Guides
    • Buyer's guide
    • Renting
    • Law
    • Workshop
    • bike trip

ComponentsTests

components: Test: Rock Shox Reverb 170mm dropper post

8 May 2017 by Michael Faiss

Test: The Rock Shox Reverb is probably the most widely used dropper post in the world. On the one hand, this is of course due to the fact that it has been on the market for a number of years, but it has also received constant updates in the meantime - most recently, for example, a variant with a 170mm stroke. In our test, the Reverb shows that it can still play at the top in 2017.



Rock Shox Reverb: Specifications

Diameter: 30,9 / 31,6 / 34,9mm
Hub: 100/125/150 / 170 mm
Control: In/Out
remote: Hydraulic
inner workings: Hydraulic

Price: € 491



Rock Shox Reverb: Test prop dimensions

Effective Stroke: 169 mm
Minimum insertion depth: 128 mm
Maximum usable length: 398 mm
Seat height retracted: 62 mm
Weight
647g (200cm line)

[accordions type=”toggle” handle=”arrows” space=”no” icon_color=”#” icon_current_color=”#”]


[/ accordions]


Rock Shox Reverb: assembly

The assembly of the support or the remote is a double-edged sword in the case of the Reverb. The only telescopic support used here is a hydraulic control with mineral oil - this may put some people off, but in the meantime it can be said that it is hardly any more difficult or complicated than a traditional assembly with a cable. This is due to some clever detail solutions from Rock Shox, such as the Connectmajig connection on the side of the support or the sealing plug for the hose. Nevertheless: inexperienced screwdrivers have to exercise a little more caution - if you make a mistake during assembly, you may have to bleed the air. Not too big a problem either, but again it takes a few minutes.



Rock Shox Reverb: processing

Solid. This word probably describes the processing of the reverb most aptly. There is really nothing to complain about here and there are no major defects anywhere. The well-known remote is notorious for its somewhat filigree construction, which can sometimes cause problems if it comes into contact with the ground. That's why they came up with a much more robust cable outlet for the new 1x remote, which should also be able to withstand heavy impacts.

Rock Shox Reverb: Function



For a long time, the RockShox Reverb was almost synonymous with modern dropper posts. Although its basic version is now a few years old, the dropper classic once again showed in the test that it can still keep up with the top. Thanks to the hydraulic control, the operating forces are very low, even if the remote does not win an ergonomics prize. However, drivers of one-by drives can fix the latter in the future with the new 1x lever.

What is great is the variable extension speed within reasonable limits, the detailed help for maintenance - whether video or PDF - and the good availability of spare parts and service kits. In addition, the reverb is available in almost every imaginable dimension and variation: 30,9 to 34,9mm diameter, stroke between 120 and 170mm, external or internal linkage - almost everyone will find something here.

Back to leaderboard

Conclusion: RockShox Reverb

Pro

  • Proven technology
  • Variable exit speed
  • Available in almost all sizes

Contrary to

  • Assembly with hydraulics a bit more complicated

Facts

product year2017
Price491€
Website www.sram.com/rockshox

Overall rating

90%

Value for Money

81%
In 2017, the Reverb continues to be one of the dropper seatpost elite: Pleasant, adjustable extension speed, high-quality workmanship, widespread use and easy maintenance are good arguments for the RockShox seatpost. With the new 1x remote, the previously major point of criticism of not optimal ergonomics is almost eliminated.
Tags:dropperBLReverbRockshox Reverbtelescopic supportVario support

More than Michael Faiss

Michael Faiß studied English and history in Munich. After spending a year in England, he worked as a translator for the magazine Procycling and the Degen Mediahouse, among others. He has also been a passionate cyclist and mechanic since childhood and feels at home off the beaten track in particular.

About Christian Ettl

Christian Ettl is a master bicycle mechanic and media designer. He was editor-in-chief of Fahrrad News. His heart beats for complex technical issues related to bicycles. He prefers to go on day tours on the gravel grinder or enjoy good descents, also in the bike park.

The new DT Swiss 1500 MTB wheel series

Made for genuine enthusiasm: The new DT Swiss 1500 MTB wheel series

Crussis e-Full with DJI Avinox motor update

Get faster, get faster: DJI M2S motor update for the Cruiser

The new Ghost E-Riot for demanding conditions

Rough terrain, steep descents and long days in the saddle: The new Ghost E-Riot for demanding conditions

Win a Stihl RCA 20 cordless pressure washer: The mobile solution for dirty bikes

Mondraker Zendit with DJI Avinox engine

New flagship for Mondraker e-bikes: Mondraker Zendit with DJI motor

Orange Phase Avinox

British speed demon with DJI Avinox power: Orange Phase Avinox

YT Decoy X

Forbiddenly fast thanks to DJI Avinox: The YT Decoy X goes over all the mountains

Amflow PR Carbon

Amflow PR Carbon: Finally, an Avinox bike with a removable battery!

The new Canyon Endurace CFR: The bike of the Paris-Roubaix 2026 winner?

DJI Avinox bikes at a glance

All bikes at a glance: These are the bikes with the new Avinox M2 engine.

Wheelsets designed for modern XC bikes and UCI World Cup competitions: The new Reserve 30|XC wheels

Full power with the new Avinox M2S motor: The Pivot Shuttle AMP'd in detail

Raymon Tarok with Avinox M2S

The newcomer with 1.500 W DJI performance: Introducing the Raymon Tarok

Avinox M2S in laboratory and practical testing: The new benchmark!

Related Articles

  • First test and all information: RockShox Reverb AXS 2.0
  • Test: SDG Tellis Dropper: Straight to the top?
  • components: Test: BikeYoke Divine SL – Dropper Post for XC Racers
  • components: Test: Contec Drop-A-Gogo dropper post – new price/performance leader?
  • components: Test: Ritchey WCS KITE - Lightweight dropper post with a robust interior
  • Velomotion Team
  • media facts
  • Imprint
  • Data protection/ GDPR

© 2026 Velomotion GmbH