Originally Posted by
werewolf
I can see a drawback in the new stem post: it appears to be tapered at the top, therefore I wouldn't be able to lower the bar and then saw off the excess tubing as I did with mine. In fact, I wouldn't be able to lower the bar at all.
It looks like this will be case for new Swifts from Xootr. My correspondence with Xootr confirmed that even the new normal length stem posts have the beefier construction. But wait there's more...... they are in the process of revamping the website, and when it's all said and done, there will be a surprise bonus with the new stem posts. I will say no more least it gains the same "vaporware" status as the rumored new Swift design.
My stem post diameter measures 30.6mm in the thick section, not exactly a convenient diameter, but there are seat post collars available in that size. So if you
really wanted a short post, you could cut from the bottom, drill and slot the lower portion and use a seat collar. You will lose the alignment pin though.
In my opinion though, the thicker post is welcomed. Out of the saddle hill climbs in San Francisco with a trailer have shown no detectable flex in the stem post at all.