Genetic Slider Seatpost

The Genetic Slider gets its name from its nifty rail mechanism, which lets the seat clamp assembly slide fore and aft, providing between 18 and 30mm of offset. This large range means that you are less likely to have to slam the saddle forwards or backwards on its rails, which can often lead to saddle failures.

In addition to the fore-aft adjustability, the seat angle is also adjustable between +-15 degrees using the same simple two bolt mechanism. Unlike some side-clamping designs, the Genetic Slider's clamp is able to deal with non-round rails, so fitting a carbon-railed saddle isn't a problem.

Useful gradations are included for both offset and seat angle so replicating a position, or tweaking it slightly is very easy indeed. Riders looking to tinker with their saddle position will find the Genetic Slider perfect for their needs. Markings are also included for seat height, in 5mm steps.

Despite the fact that both seat angle and offset are controlled by the same two bolts, it was very easy to adjust solely for angle as the friction between the slider and the post meant that it stayed put even with the bolts loosened off.

Conversely, the design means that adjusting for offset without affecting seat angle is impossible as the bolts must be fully loosened off. This isn't really a problem however, as the markings make it very easy to replicate seat angle when tightening the whole ensemble up, as long as you've remembered what the angle was initially.

While the saddle clamp is undoubtedly the star of the show, the rest of the post isn't too shabby either. The carbon body is covered in a thick gloss which looks great on the bike and despite all the metal up top, the Slider is still usefully light at a claimed 223 grams for the 27.2x400mm size tested. Cutting it down to length once installed will bring that weight in line with some much more expensive competition.

And speaking of expense, the Genetic Slider does look to be good value at £90, especially when you consider that you are effectively getting a couple seatposts with different offsets, all in one. For those who use clip-on bars for a spot of time trialling, the Genetic Slider makes it possible to achieve a steeper seat position without having to change seatpost.

In terms of ride quality, the Slider isn't the smoothest of rides out there, but nor is it a jackhammer. Like all good components, you tend to forget it's even there when out riding. The two bolts are designed to handle up to 8Nm of torque, so there's no issue with saddle slippage when riding. Like all carbon seatposts, the maximum clamping force at the seat collar is 5Nm, so a little friction paste is a good idea to prevent any slippage in that area.

Verdict

A good value, carbon seatpost with bags of adjustability making it ideal for riders looking to refine their saddle position.