question about carbon seatposts.... I think I want one :)

[luckeeesmom]

So my aluminum bike rides a bit rough. From what I've read a carbon seatpost will probably help. What's the difference between the cheaper models vs. more expensive? Is carbon carbon or do the well known name brands make a better quality product? Also how do you know how much setback to purchase?

Thanks for any help I can get with this!

[DirtDiva]

The more expensive posts tend to be lighter. If you're after one for comfort's sake only, then you will probably be fine with a cheaper one. If your positioning on your bike is comfortable, then look for a seatpost with the same setback as the one you already have.

[luckeeesmom]

I took my current seatpost out and from the bike specs I know its 27.2 mm abd 350mm length but no details on the setback. I do know the there is setback but it appears to be a little less than the width in diameter of the seatpost so I assume that maybe it is approx 25mm or so. Is there any way to tell for sure? Thanks for your help! As for price, I'd like to get something on the lower range pricewise but the best quality I can get. I'm hoping I can catch a good deal!

[luckeeesmom]

Also are carbon seatposts likely to crack? what is their lifespan?

[Starfish]

Also are carbon seatposts likely to crack? what is their lifespan?

I would like to hear about this, too. I did read something on another thread where someone cracked their carbon post by over tightening it? I am thinking of getting one, too, but want to learn about how to keep it happy!

[OakLeaf]

I would like to hear about this, too. I did read something on another thread where someone cracked their carbon post by over tightening it? I am thinking of getting one, too, but want to learn about how to keep it happy!

Well, DH bought me a beautiful Snap-On torque wrench for Christmas. But I'll be able to use it when I get inside my m/c engine for a valve adjustment. I don't know if I'd spend that kind of money just for seatpost and stem adjustments (considering the number of seatposts you could buy for the price of the wrench)

Really, I would just trust that the shop got it right (probably too much to ask with some shops, but generally OK) - count the turns of the Allen wrench when you loosen it, then re-tighten by the same amount.

[Duck on Wheels]

Also are carbon seatposts likely to crack? what is their lifespan?

Yep. Carbon seat posts do crack. I had one that lasted a year, riding moderate distances on mostly fairly smooth roads. I did hit one pothole a couple weeks before the seatpost snapped. That may have been a trigger. I've replaced the seatpost now. Not carbon, although the carbon post did make for a smoother ride.

[Trek420]

I was told not to get carbon on a steel frame. Is this true?

Something about it being more likely to crack. My steel road bike, all Campy Record has a Chorus seatpost because Record post is carbon. Oh the shame, the horror of non matching parts

But I like it fine.