FIRST IMPRESSIONS: ONEUP V3 DROPPER SEATPOST

OneUp Components’ V3 Dropper Post is designed to pick up where the V2 version leaves off as an ultra-lightweight, high-performance, long-travel dropper. This third-generation dropper post has undergone over three years of development and is made to surpass its predecessor, the V2, in various aspects. It is lighter, offers smoother operation, and boasts improved reliability. With a claimed shortest stack and total length among dropper posts (10mm shorter than V2), the V3 is setting itself up as the one to beat when it comes to insertion depths.

In terms of weight, OneUp says that the V3 is the lightest infinitely adjustable dropper available, even surpassing XC-specific lightweight droppers. It offers a wide range of travel options suitable for riders of all weights and riding styles. The design of the V3 has been optimized to reduce weight, resulting in a claimed savings of 60 to 70 grams compared to the V2. The primary contributor to this weight reduction is the new hydraulic cartridge that also eliminates the need for inflation.

Compared to other popular dropper posts, OneUp says the V3 is substantially lighter, weighing a claimed 238 grams less than a Reverb AXS, 155 grams less than a Transfer, and up to 60 grams less than the 2-position Transfer SL. Additionally, riders can achieve an extra 10 grams of weight savings with the Ti Bolt Upgrade Kit.

The V3 is also made to address riders’ requests for improved seals, reduced play, and smoother action. The new cartridge design is claimed to require 75% less lever force when seated, making it quicker and easier to lower the saddle while riding. Bushings have been upgraded to use low-friction, self-lubricating IGUS material, reducing friction, and enhancing performance. Seals have also been improved with a custom SKF wiper seal and high-performance collar for better durability and minimizing maintenance. To eliminate rotational play without increasing friction, the number of anti-rotation pins has been doubled, and oversized polymer pins have been added as well. OneUp says that the V3 is fully serviceable at home with a OneUp multi tool.

Specs:
Warranty: 2 Years
Routing: Internal
Diameter: 30.9 / 31.6 / 34.9
Travel: 90mm / 120mm / 150mm / 180mm / 210mm / 240mm
Weight: 325g / 370g / 415g / 460g / 515g / 585g (for 30.9)
Total Length: 295mm / 350mm / 415mm / 480mm / 545mm / 610mm
Compressed Stack Height: 30mm (25mm for 34.9)
Price: V3 Dropper Post (post only)
$269.99 USD / $364.99 CAD / €291.99 / £291.99

V3 Remote
$44.99 USD / $59.99 CAD / €49.99 / £44.99

V3 Dropper Post + V3 Remote
$299.99 USD / $399.99 CAD / €324.99 / £320.99

FIRST RIDE IMPRESSIONS:

We have had minimal time on the OneUp’s V3 but so far it seems that all of the brand’s claims are accurate. It’s light with our 30.9mm diameter, 180mm travel version hitting the scale at just 464 grams for the post. We paired it with OneUp’s current V3 lever and setup is about as easy as it gets. On the trail performance does seem slighly improved over its predecessor. Actualtion is lighter and less on and off feeling. Lateral play at the nose of the saddle is nearly non-existant but so were most of our V2s initally as well so time will tell if it’s an improvement. OneUp’s V2 dropper was already one of our MBA staff favorites so the V3 is looking very impressive so far. Stay tuned for a long term review after we give this post some proper use.