i currently have a ritchey seatpost with about 25 mm of setback, which is a little much for me; my saddle (alias) is all the way forward as is (approx but not quite at kops), so there is no adjustability. i figured i'd get a thomson (elite), and am deciding on setback vs none. the setback is 16 mm so even the setback one would be in the right direction from what i have.

since the setback can be used set-forward as well, is there any reason (other than possibly aesthetics) to get the straight post? between set-back, set-forward and saddle rail adjustment it seems the setback post completely overlaps the straight one in positioning. am i missing something?

It'll be very set forward if you flip the set back around. Try dropping by a bike shop that has the actual thing in stock and see what they say about it. Otherwise, if you're near by, drop by my place, I have a thompson elite seatpost on both my bikes, no set back.

Please note that the Thomson seat post has one of the longest clamps of any seat post. Therefore there is actually very little overlap between the setback/forward and the zero offset seat post. It is not just aesthetics, get the one that puts the saddle near where you need it with some adjustability on either side.

Love my Masterpiece.....Allowed me to move my saddle up to allow the correct knee over peddle position without binding the saddle up..Plus it looks HOT!!

Yes, I had one and I couldn't get it adjusted far enough back to use. Too bad because it's a fantastic seatpost.