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)
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.