Why Suspension Seatposts Matter
If you ride on rough roads, gravel, or broken tarmac, you’ve probably felt the fatigue that builds up from constant vibration. That’s where suspension seatposts come in—and the SR Suntour NCX Suspension Seatpost is one of the most popular options out there.
Designed to absorb shocks and smooth out your ride, the SR Suntour NCX Suspension Seatpost is a favourite among commuters, gravel riders, and e-bike users. It offers 50mm of travel, a parallelogram linkage for consistent saddle movement, and preload adjustability—all at a price that undercuts premium competitors.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Travel | 50mm |
| Design | Parallelogram linkage with coil spring |
| Material | 6061-T6 aluminum with brass bushings |
| Spring Options | Soft (<70kg), Medium (70–95kg), Hard (90–120kg) |
| Preload Adjustment | Yes (hex bolt under saddle clamp) |
| Offset | 25mm setback |
| Weight | ~790g (27.2mm version) |
| Lengths Available | 350mm and 400mm |
| Diameters Available | 27.2mm, 30.9mm, 31.6mm |
| Price | £85–£110 (varies by retailer) |
Design and Build Quality
The NCX uses a parallelogram linkage system, which allows the saddle to move vertically and slightly backwards as it compresses. This design keeps your pedalling position more consistent than a telescopic post, which can feel like it’s bouncing underneath you.
The post is made from forged 6061-T6 aluminum, with brass bushings at the pivot points for smooth, long-lasting movement. The internal coil spring is replaceable and comes in three stiffness levels depending on rider weight.
You also get a two-bolt saddle clamp and a 25mm setback—something to keep in mind if your current saddle position is already pushed far back.
Installation and Setup
Installing the NCX is straightforward:
- Choose the correct diameter for your seat tube.
- Insert the post to the minimum insertion line.
- Mount your saddle using the two-bolt clamp.
- Adjust the preload using a 6mm hex key.
The preload adjuster is located under the saddle clamp. It lets you fine-tune how firm or soft the suspension feels. If you’re on the lighter or heavier side, you can swap out the spring for a better match—Suntour offers soft (blue), medium (black), and hard (red) springs.
Ride Comfort and Performance
This is where the NCX really shines. Whether you’re riding over potholes, gravel, or cobblestones, the seatpost takes the edge off without feeling mushy or unstable.
What It Handles Well:
- Potholes and road cracks
- Washboard gravel
- Tree roots and trail chatter
- Urban curbs and speed bumps
What It Doesn’t:
- Big drops or jumps (it’s not a dropper post)
- High-frequency vibration (some still gets through)
The 50mm of travel is enough to noticeably reduce fatigue on long rides. The return action is quick and controlled, and the parallelogram design prevents the pogo-stick effect you get with cheaper suspension posts.
Durability and Maintenance
After 1,000km of use, the NCX still feels solid. The brass bushings are smooth, the linkage has no play, and the preload hasn’t needed re-adjustment.
To keep it running smoothly:
- Wipe down the linkage after muddy rides
- Apply a light lubricant to the pivots every few months
- Consider a neoprene cover to protect it from grit and water
The seatpost is serviceable, and replacement parts are available from SR Suntour or third-party retailers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent comfort on rough terrain
- 50mm of travel with preload adjustment
- Durable brass bushings and alloy construction
- Multiple diameters and spring options
- Great value for money
- Easy to install and maintain
Cons
- Heavy (~790g) compared to rigid posts
- 25mm setback may affect fit for some riders
- Not suitable for aggressive MTB or dropper use
- Slight rearward motion may feel odd at first
How It Compares: NCX vs Cane Creek Thudbuster ST
| Feature | SR Suntour NCX | Thudbuster ST |
|---|---|---|
| Travel | 50mm | 33mm |
| Suspension Type | Coil spring | Elastomer |
| Weight | ~790g | ~450g |
| Adjustability | Preload + spring swap | Elastomer swap only |
| Price | £85–£110 | £150–£180 |
The NCX offers more travel and adjustability, while the Thudbuster is lighter and more compact. For comfort-focused riders, the NCX is the better value.
Who Should Buy the SR Suntour NCX?
This seatpost is ideal for riders who want to improve comfort without switching to a full-suspension bike. It’s especially well-suited for:
- Gravel cyclists riding long distances on mixed terrain
- Commuters dealing with potholes, curbs, and broken tarmac
- E-bike users who want to reduce fatigue on longer rides
- Bikepackers looking for comfort without adding suspension forks
- Older riders or those with back issues who need extra shock absorption
It’s also a great option for anyone upgrading from a rigid post who doesn’t want to spend £200+ on a premium suspension model.
Who Should Skip It?
While the NCX is versatile, it’s not for everyone. You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You’re a performance-focused rider who prioritises weight savings
- You need a dropper post for technical MTB trails
- Your bike has a very upright geometry and you’re already maxed out on saddle setback
- You’re riding aggressive downhill or enduro terrain—this post isn’t built for big hits
In those cases, a dropper or full-suspension setup would be more appropriate.
Real-World Feedback from Riders
Across forums, reviews, and long-term user reports, the NCX consistently earns praise for its comfort and reliability. Here’s what riders are saying:
“I’ve had mine on a gravel bike for over two years. It’s transformed how long I can ride without fatigue.” — Verified buyer, Wiggle
“It’s not flashy, but it works. I commute 20 miles a day and this takes the sting out of every pothole.” — Reddit user, r/cycling
“I’ve tried the Thudbuster and the NCX. The NCX is heavier, but the extra travel makes a big difference on rough trails.” —Bikepacking.comcommenter
This kind of real-world validation reinforces what we found in testing: the NCX is a workhorse that delivers consistent comfort over time.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Upgrade for Everyday Riders
The SR Suntour NCX Suspension Seatpost isn’t the lightest, sleekest, or most high-tech option out there—but it might be the most practical. For under £100, it offers a noticeable improvement in ride quality, especially on rough roads and gravel.
It’s easy to install, simple to maintain, and backed by years of proven performance. Whether you’re commuting, bikepacking, or just trying to ride longer without discomfort, the NCX is a smart, affordable upgrade that delivers real-world benefits.
Final Rating: 9.2/10 Best for: Riders who want more comfort without sacrificing pedaling efficiency Avoid if: You need a dropper post or are building a sub-9kg race bike
