The PNW Loam Dropper is a no-nonsense dropper post that does the things you need it to do. Drop after drop, it is easily serviced and doesn’t cost a ton of money at the register or when it needs service. Coming in at $209 (the handlebar lever is sold separately) the Loam Dropper is a bargain – especially when adding in the long-term cost of maintaining dropper posts, a hidden cost of ownership many don’t consider in their initial purchase.
Features
- Adjustable air cartridge
- Internal routing
- Available in 3 diameters: 30.9, 31.6, & 34.9mm
- Available in 125mm, 150mm, (tested) 170mm, and 200mm travel versions
- 25mm of travel adjustment (does not require tools)
- Swappable silicon band for color coordination/ personalization
- MSRP: $209
When assembling parts and components to build up a Marin Pine Mountain frame for bike packing adventures, the Loam Dropper was on a short list of desired components. The goal: a reliable, value-packed build that wouldn’t cost a lot, but also wouldn’t compromise on quality/performance.
If you’re already a PNW fan, you wouldn’t be surprised to find we also went with the PNW handlebar, which has become one of our favorite bars with its good looks, strength/ weight, and comfortable sweep.
In terms of technical specifications, the Loam Dropper Post is available in options with travel of up to 200mm, which is more than enough for most riders. PNW features a fitment chart on their site that aids in determining which post height will fit your ride. With a limited amount of stand-over height on the Pine Mountain Frame, I was limited with options for my frame. Fortunately, I was able to squeeze a 150mm post in with my 31.5″ inseam, which is the least amount of drop I’d want to run.
The PNW Components Loam Dropper Post is a reliable addition that enhances a rider’s experience on the trails. Monkey motion is powered by a sealed hydraulic cartridge that ensures consistent performance and minimizes maintenance and the post includes a lifetime warranty against defects.
Like all dropper posts, the Loam Dropper will eventually require service. To facilitate maintenance and make it easy for the end user, PNW offers a service program you can add to your cart that covers the replacement of the wear and tear parts of the post as well as the cost of shipping your post back to PNW Components. At $50, this cost is less than half of what Fox or SRAM charges.
Paired with the PNW Loam lever, it is simple to operate, regardless of trail conditions. The lever — one of the best cable dropper post levers available in our opinion — is ergonomically designed and has a large sweet spot for your thumb and a comfortable grippy pad that can be easily actuated. The action is responsive, with smooth and consistent movement easily adjusting the saddle height on the fly. You can also match the color of the Loam Lever via swappable silicone bands.
Though I haven’t really messed with it too much, a feature that I appreciate includes the adjustable air pressure. This allows the rider to fine-tune the post’s return speed to your personal preference and riding style.
The tool-less travel adjustment is also a boon for riders the need to fine-tune the ride height. My post slammed on the Marin worked perfectly allowing me the full 150mm of adjustability.
Overall, the PNW Components Loam Dropper Post is one of the few droppers I recommend to my personal circle. For anyone looking for a reliable dropper post; the low cost of serviceability adds significant value over posts from Fox or SRAM, which have a significantly higher cost, even more so when you factor in lifetime ownership. The Loam post is easy to use, responsive, and offers a range of customization options.
