I just purchased a 2009 Kestrel Talon SL and I’m hoping someone can help me lower the seat height.
I’ve cut the seat post, twice, to meet the recommended 100mm maximum insertion length and still can’t lower the post enough. It appears that the diameter/size of the post increases about 85mm from the top, creating a wedge, that restricts further insertion. I was wondering if any of you encountered this and if so, what can be done to overcome it, I only need another 10mm or so.
Thanks!
I have the same bike. Yes, the seat post widens at about that point (why? no idea). I would contact Kestrel (Steve Harod is frequently on ST) and ask what the tolerances are in cutting it down more, and the min/max. insertion depth for your body size/weight and frame. Is the frame really big for your size? That problem is particular to the SL carbon tolerances, I would guess. I have the opposite problem, not enough *insertion, *as I’m tall for my frame and the seat post has the minimum inserted. I love the bike, hope it works out.
I appreciate your follow up. I have learned more about the Talon aero seatpost but still don’t have a solution to my problem.
Yes, the seat post widens at about that point (why? no idea).
I’ve seen a few posts that suggest that the taper was added to deal with a problem with the posts slipping into the frame on earlier models.
I would contact Kestrel (Steve Harod is frequently on ST) and ask what the tolerances are in cutting it down more, and the min/max. insertion depth for your body size/weight and frame.
I contacted Steve and he said that the solution to my problem was to use a round post. 
Is the frame really big for your size?
I have a 31.5" inseam and have 52 cm - 54 cm frames setup with about 70 cm bb to saddle height. The saddle was at it’s max. insertion, 71 cm, when I test rode it - no problem for the short ride in my sneakers - but big problem after 40 miles with cleats.
I love the bike, hope it works out.
Thanks, I’m hoping to find a creative solution to using the aero post.
Round post? Bummer. Sorry there is no easy solution. Maybe a modest fit at the LBS for stack/reach to find other solutions and a post that has a round bottom and teardrop top half? Interesting problem, let me know what your solution turns out to be.