That lightweight XC or gravel bike in your stable will be clicking its heels with delight when it gets to wear this new Transfer SL dropper post from Fox. Weighing a full 25% less than the Transfer post, Fox says that the Transfer SL is the lightest mainstream post available, with the featheriest configuration weighing just 327g.
In addition to being light, the Transfer SL comes with 50-100mm of travel, and it’s available in 27.2, 30.9, or 31.6 diameters to please a wider array of frames. The Kashima coated Factory model will retail for $399, and the black performance Elite option can be had at $329.
The seat rail clamps will work with round metal rails or the lighter ovalized carbon ones. The clamping head has a very different shape compared to the standard Transfer, and Fox says that this shape is entirely focused on weight savings.
This coil-actuated XC post can only be positioned up or down, with no intermediate or infinite positions available. Fox says that the return speed is also slightly faster than the regular Transfer since there is no hydraulic system inside.
Given the feather weight and thinner tubes, this dropper will be a little more sensitive to seat collar torque, and Fox recommends making sure to use the proper torque spec to tighten it in place. That torque might change depending on the rider and bike. “For Transfer SL, a maximum collar torque is specified to prevent post damage, but the correct torque is the torque that holds the post in position under rider weight but does not bind the post from returning to the top locking position. This torque can be different for each rider/bike/clamp combination.”
The post is also focused on cutting wiggle at the saddle. Fox says, “The mechanism has two preloaded bushings so there is zero angular ‘free play’ at the saddle. Instead, there is a spring-loaded feel if the saddle is twisted. Most dropper posts use rigid parts (Transfer uses brass pins) to prevent angular rotation of the upper post, which results in a small amount of angular free play until the rigid parts engage.”
There is an extra long version for taller riders who need a lot of post sticking out of the frame to accommodate their leg length, while the shorter posts are as short as possible to allow them to fit more frames and bodies. The window at the base of the post moves the actuator inside, further reducing the amount of housing and mechanical interface at the lowest point.
The Transfer SL can be actuated with a variety of levers, including those designed for drop-bar bikes.
