PNW Loam dropper post review

PNW’s component range offers good value across the board, and its Loam dropper is no different and arrives in fully recyclable packaging.

The Loam is the next step up in the range from PNW’s entry-level and super-affordable Rainer dropper post (£128.39) and, for the price, it's a really solid performer. The option to adjust its travel is great if you fall between sizes, too.

The seatpost is available in sizes 30.9, 31.6, 34.9mm and lengths of 125, 150, 170, 200mm, and I tested a 31.6mm, 150mm option.

PNW Loam specifications and details

The 55mm stack height (from the base of the collar to the centre of the saddle rails) is reasonable and makes for good clearance when the saddle is down, and the overall insertion length of 240mm, including the actuator, is compact. Interchangeable rubber rings on the post collar mean you can colour-match the post to your bike, too.

Rebound speed can be altered by tweaking the air pressure, and travel is adjustable as well by up to 25mm in 5mm increments on all post sizes. This can be done tool-free and on the bike by simply unthreading the post collar and rotating the stepped bushing underneath.

Installation on the bike is really simple with the cable threading from the post end and then fixed at the remote.

I tested the post with a Loam lever, which retails for £50 / $69 / €59 extra and is both I-Spec and MatchMaker-compatible. The shifter-style paddle has a rubber grip pad and, like the post collar, several colours are available.

PNW Loam dropper post impressions

The Loam dropper post performed really well during testing and the lever had a positive feel and predictable actuation. The customisable return speed meant I could get the post popping back up fast for quick saddle height adjustments on the trail.

Wiggle the saddle though and there’s a noticeable amount of side-to-side play between the stanchion and shaft of the post. This made it feel less sturdy but did little to hinder performance.

Overall, I was really impressed by the PNW Loam. With the long travel 200mm option costing the same as the shorter drop options, it offers excellent value for money and is a worthy competitor to the likes of Brand-X, offering better feel and more customisation options from its travel adjustment and colour coding.