Bike Fitter RANKS Saddles Worst to Best

[@pauliui78]

I'm using specialized power 143mm /110 sitbone width. The best saddle I've ever used.

[@JohnWest-k4m]

I have used the power for ages, works for me - upgraded to the power mirror - even better! The old power now on KickR bike works a treat too - even when not moving around a lot

[@j.schaefer5622]

Yesss, the 143mm Power and the 143mm Phenom are the best saddles for me too.

[@CapnHilts]

Ya this guy's more of a comedian than an actual ergonomist.

[@ncsteinb]

The ISM saddle has changed my riding experience. I've been to pro bike fitters many times and struggled with saddle pain after 1 hr of riding. The ISM has allowed me to have many hours of comfort on the bike, and allows me to enjoy the sport again. Thanks ISM!!

[@superglue46]

Sames. Game changer for me, specifically the Breakaway.

[@kevinburns4947]

Yup. I bought an ISM Adamo years ago. Brilliant.Tried loads of others but was in pain sooner or later. The ism was perfect. Recommend you at least try these. Bought my son an ISM City as Adamo no longer available. My bike fit is just fine

[@ShawnIsBatman]

As a dedicated roadie, the two pieces of equipment that I have gone through the most variations of are saddles and shoes. I have settled on the Selle Italia SLR Boost (3D) and Lake shoes and am finally completely satisfied. My general criteria for knowing that a component like saddles or shoes are the right ones is that when I am riding I never find myself thinking about them.

[@hectorkidds9840]

Pro stealth has been awesome for me, no saddle issues at LEL using drops, hoods and aero bars. Best saddle I've ever tried (for me).

[@markbradtke5962]

A yes from me.😀

[@eyeq1451]

SQLab 612 Ergowave Active on both bikes. I have an SQLab "Premium" bike shop nearby, and when I bought the first one they said I could swap it within four weeks to a different one if I get uncomfortable. The longest ride on one of them was 312 km in a day, but I have done multiple 200+ km days as well so I'd say they fit very well. 😊

[@joschisasa]

same for me. best saddle(s) i had (so far?)

[@alexprofos5232]

SQLab saddles are just perfect for me as well, I have a 614 Ergowave Active 2.1 on my gravel bike and took the same size as my, about 12 year old, 612, they might be not the lightest, specially the "active", but I guess they are the best for fitting as they come in 1cm increment sizes and you can get the "more" perfect size, not sure why they are not mentioned more on english speaking channels

[@doc-slider5345]

I ride the SQLab 614 on my gravel for long long travel and the 612 on my racebike. I have been cycling since 1972 and these SQLabs are the best of the best.

[@Indik47]

same for me, tried 612 - SQLab is the best

[@aquicktake]

Got the 612 Ergowave a week ago. Have to say that my seat bones are quite sore now. And, I am experiencing some left side hip flexor pain I wasn't feeling before. I guess I should account the seat bone pain to apparently I wasn't sitting that much on those bones?? Plan on giving it another week or two and see if it works out.

[@mr_m_to_the_t]

Had a fit with James in May. Tried some different ones, came with an Ergon SMC40 and left with with it. Had saddle issues before, now don't have them anymore. Changing the position and insoles did the job!

[@barryliu3473]

143mm power has been a blessing personally

[@barryliu3473]

Coming from a selle italia boost slr s3

[@Davido0013]

Why its better? What problems u had with selle italia?

[@Vanagon_life]

143 power saddle is on all my bikes love it

[@barryliu3473]

@@Davido0013 I just had hot spots on the inside of my thigh that potentially formed saddle sores when I stay in the saddle for like 3+hours. And yes I had a bike fit with the selle italia fitted. I just transferred the power saddle on, pushed it basically all the way forward and it has been a blessing since. I can even do like 2 hour on it without bib shorts.

[@s3cr3td00rindar00m]

and for me the 155mm version and I am a 1.68m 63 Kg guy

[@andymarshall8420]

Tried the Power expert 155mm on my gravel bike, super comfy, no issues at all. Moved it over to my hardtail mtb and its been a revelation. Upgraded to a Power Expert with mirror 155mm on the gravel bike and changed seatpost. That's needed some tweaking but itll get there.

[@kenannable4747]

Using the SQLab 611 Ergowave on my three bikes, and this model has worked well for me.

[@supertramp6612]

My heart broke when the SMP came on and James slated the look. But only because I ride one! Me and my mates have all been riding SLR Boosts for a couple of years but found that on the big rides they would get uncomfortable. Our bike fitter recommended the SMP Nymber which we all recoiled at initially but eventually succumbed. We're now all riding them on road and gravel bikes and have no issues even on 100 miles + rides. Genuinely the most comfortable saddle I've ridden. Every time I see it, a part of me does die inside slightly..

[@mrvwbug4423]

I took one ride on a Specialized Power saddle and that was enough for me. Rode WTB Volt for several years it was decent but could start getting uncomfortable on longer rides. Now using a Ergon SM Enduro Comp, which is the most comfortable saddle I've ridden, and has the odd thing where it actually gets more comfortable when going uphill. And this is even with a steep STA and slight forward tilt on the saddle as it's on an enduro bike. It's also the smallest saddle I've used, which is nice because it gets out of the way very nicely when the dropper is down.

[@craigharold492]

Ritchey Vector, off my 96 Marin Bear Valley. By far, in nearly fifty years of cycling, the best saddle for me 💪🏼

[@jespernohr]

After my fit with James, I ended up on the amazing Selle Italia Boost SLR S3. Super happy with it on my road bike. In another video with James he mentioned he had been trying out the Endurance version and was happy with it. So I bought one for my indoor bike. I am soooo happy with it, that I will go on my next bike, an adventure bike. PS. BikefitJames a man so nice they named him twice.

[@tkbuz]

Any suggestion how to determine whether I should order 130 width or 145?

[@jespernohr]

@@tkbuz I cannot tell what is best for you but I am really happy with mine and those are 130.

[@daredemontriple6]

Had a bike fit a while back and tried all sorts. I had started with a Prologo Nago without pressure-relief channel. My bike fitter at the time commented that he was amazed I could ride what I was riding while being 6'5 and 120kg almost, he said it must feel "Like riding a knife edge". Tried at least half a dozen other saddles none of which really clicked, even including a SLR boost I think. All far too hard and painful. Then we tried something a bit unorthodox, a Brooks C17 with pressure relief cut-out. It was like sitting in an armchair to be honest, so much more comfortable than anything else I'd ever ridden. It may not look very fast, but we all know a comfy rider rides faster for longer than one who's experimenting with testicular pancakes! Moral of the story, find the problem and then solve it, don't just buy something because it looks cool or has cool tech or the pros use it. It's no good having a 'cool' bike if you never ride it for being in agony

[@BikesKomsCRO]

Think your issue is weight.. i was 115kg and everything was uncomftable.. once i dropped to 100 and now to 95 soon 90 i found more comfort in all saddles. Im using Power Expert 155mm on all bikes now.

[@daredemontriple6]

@@BikesKomsCRO No doubt, weight is a huge factor and there's no getting around it. Unfortunately, at my height, even at a pretty good body fat % I still weigh about 105-110kg. So my only option really is to cut muscle too which I'd prefer not to do! But it's just a good example of how one needn't ride certain saddles. What I ride now is comfy for me, far more so than other kinds, and yet I'm still at that weight.

[@paulhadlington8179]

I've tried a number of saddles and the ones that worked best for me were the cheap and cheerful "Charge" submissions. Ive ridden 80-100 miles regularly using either the "spoon" version on my endurance bike, and the "knife" on my faster road bike.

[@SlickWillyTFCF]

My bike came with a Fizik Aliante and it caused nothing but issues, mainly genital numbness within the first 20-30 minutes of a ride. I took a shot in the dark and bought a Selle Italia Model X and it wasn't much better. Finally decided to get a proper bike fit instead of wasting money blindly buying and trying random parts. My fitter got me on a Pro Stealth Offroad and it's been incredible. No more sore gooch or numb todger, even after multiple hours on the bike.

[@xelseartheonlyone1267]

I have a Pro stealth too. The wings though destroy me. I use the 142 width one. The 152 is unridable, maybe i should have gotten the more expensive one..?

[@SlickWillyTFCF]

@@xelseartheonlyone1267 I'm on a 142. I can't imagine how uncomfortable the bigger one would be. I would get a bike fit. Buying random parts in the hope that they will work for you will rapidly exceed the cost of a bike fit, and you may never get it right on your own

[@franzgustavgauner5601]

I rarely whatch Cade stuff anymore but out of curiosity clicked on this one. Coaccidently I changed Bars and Saddle on my Maser Olimpic yesterday and will now try to make more us of the back part of my SLR Boost since I still have to perform my proud and trusty "home saddle bikefit" Thanks for the tip!

[@chuckfrizzell8668]

Great video. Speaking of OE saddles - I have never kept one on a new bike - until now. 2024 Giant Revolt Advance gravel bike. It came with a Giant Approach saddle. I couldn’t believe the fit and comfort was/is so good. I’m 175cm / 63 kilos, train about 12 hours per week. Best wishes to everyone.

[@MikkelZanio]

I agree. Cheap saddle but it does the job!

[@LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1]

I second that and you can buy the stealthy integrated light for it. I have a Selle Italia titanium but the Giant Approach is bang on for a stock saddle

[@danvardy3950]

Had many bikes. Giant Approach is the only one I have not changed. Love the light that slots in at the back too

[@mrvwbug4423]

Wow, I've owned two giants and I couldn't do one ride on the stock saddle on those.

[@xkpm]

Rode a Fizik Arione for years and it only started bothering me during longer (100+) rides. Switched to a Selle Italia Boost SLR S3 last year to see what the hubbub was all about and it was the most uncomfortable thing ever, fine at first but after a while or when really pushing it felt like it was trying to split my hip in half. I thought I just had to get used to it or break it in but after about 300km of testing I couldn't bare it anymore. I do like and tend to move on the saddle depending on the effort, riding position on the bars, terrain or when climbing and the SLR didn't allow me to do any of that (I probably taught myself that throughout the years cause the Arione allows for a lot of moving around). I switched to an old Fabric Line Race Shallow from my parts bin while looking for a new saddle but haven't looked back since, the Line rides great! TLDR; there's no exact science behind what's comfortable everyone, I'm tall and skinny with very little natural cushioning on my butt and still was fine (for the most part) with the hardness of the Arione and felt a pain I haven't felt before or since when riding the Boost SLR.

[@edrubin6042]

While it may be wrong for road the "beak" shape of the SMP is a stretched out version of WTB's mountain bike saddle which is great for off road. On an MTB the beak gives leverage out of the saddle in rock gardens and the kick up at the rear helps positioning while descending. My "road bike" has the inexpensive San Marco saddle Redline stuck on the Conquest Pro in 2009 and I'll use it until it wears out

[@allrounderbicycle7193]

I believe the San Marco Ponza came on that Conquest.

[@davidmulligan42]

I bought the Selle Italia Boost a while back after James recommended it, and it's been working well for me.

[@phil_d]

You should try the Pro Stealth Curved saddle then. I had the SLR Boost in both widths and I found the amount of opening and lack of cushion on the nose very uncomfortable after an hour. The Stealth has a smaller cutout and therefore more support in that area, with deeper padding. Well worth the 40g extra!

[@davidmulligan42]

@@phil_d Thanks, I might try it. I don't care about the extra 40g :)

[@KoenMiseur]

@@phil_d It isn't narrow enough.

[@phil_d]

@@KoenMiseur Where? At the nose?

[@phil_d]

@davidmulligan42 I actually had my ar$e pressure mapped because of the discomfort. My position was pretty much spot-on, other than a tiny saddle drop and back (still with the SLR). Mapping was even on the SLR, but you could see the concentration on the nose because the large cut out left little to support. The Stealth has a larger, flatter section on the nose. The normal Stealth (the one James hated) is flatter at the back and has a thicker nose. That rubbed the inside of my thighs straight away.

[@stuartlundstrom9570]

Tried the Pro Turnix a couple of years ago based on another video that James did. A couple of years later and having replaced all my saddles with the Turnix - I’ve not had a single issue with sores or any discomfort at all 👌🏻

[@johnleonard5936]

I tried the Selle Italia SLR BOOST and it took months to recover. I then tried the Selle SMP Well and absolutely love it. Everyone is different.

[@ashleyhouse9690]

I had a bike fit with James and bought an SLR Boost on his recommendation. OK for 20-30 miles but any longer and it felt like I was sitting on a plank of wood. Eventually tried a Bontrager Verse Comp and am much more comfortable on rides up to 100 miles.

[@billjones7580]

Game changer saddle for me was (is) SMP Composit. Yes. I know, SMP. BUT it was added as part of a bike fit. It took a fair while to dial in but now it's absolutely perfect. 100 miles no issues. Feels the same after 100 miles at it does after the first 5. It's my saddle. I do agree with a lot of what is mentioned in the video, 90% of saddle issues are probably coming from the fit in general

[@carlnyman4903]

Fizik Arione R1, for the simple reason that it is insanely narrow. Although sit bone measurements may not tell the full story, I'm in the 99th percentile of narrowness for men at

[@aeropotato]

I use one also, have used them for a long time. guess we both love bad bike fits. i have tried changing, my junk prefers a bit of torture…

[@BrotoGP]

I switched from a Power 143 to the SLR Boost S3. My sitbones are narrow AF so the change was amazing. I should have never ridden the Power 143 and a narrower version was hardly available. But you live and you learn.

[@BrawndoDrinker]

I've used tons of different saddles in my 40+ years on mt bikes. Couple years back tried out a simple Ergon SMC large and was shocked how good it was. Don't need a chamois any more, and put them on almost my entire stable.

[@KoenMiseur]

James, I don't always agree with you but you convinced me on the Boost Endurance I have them now on most of my bikes (even the 3D printed one, and I do like it)! It was after a bike holiday where I rented a bike with a very narrow saddle and it fitted me perfectly (with the same measurements as my bike at home), never had that happen before!

[@paulelkouss]

I'm also a fan of the super flow boost S3! I'm glad James shared info about it.

[@buster.keaton]

Another excellent video by James. I wish he wasn't half way around the globe from where I live as he's convinced me that he's a bike fitter worth paying for.

[@logankfritz]

The Bontrager Commuter Fluid Saddle is a solid saddle for larger riders and casual cyclists. The Selle Royal Explora Saddle is also the most comfortable saddle with road geometry and just a little bit of pressure relief. I've done 80 mi rides on these saddles as a 120 kg rider and they've held up!

[@JoeW71]

I have an Ergon SR Allroad that is pretty comfortable. But my new Felt bike came with a Prologo saddle, also pretty good. Thanks for the good info. I took notes.

[@flipper2gv]

Wider saddles on smaller bikes is because they expect most of those who will use those bikes to be women.

[@Bikefitjames]

WHO DO NOT NEED WIDER SADDLES!!!!

[@akirarex]

@@Chris-jc3lr and Trek does this as well

[@irfuel]

Which is nonsense

[@flipper2gv]

@@irfuel why?

[@alexr4586]

@@irfuel why nonsense? That makes perfect sense! Very small frame sizes are rarely ridden by men! Of course, it would make more sense to be able to choose when buying

[@glensmall1]

I used to use the Selle Smp trk, and loved it, but after fitting shorter cranks and fixing my position, I switched to the selle italia boost endurance. Really like it.

[@ru71]

SLR Boost on all 3 bikes, 3D, endurance and standard. Best saddle I’ve used and a super happy butt. Thanks James and CADE

[@michaellee7046]

@@ru71 how do you like the 3d vs the standard?

[@alecledbetter]

Curious to hear your preference as well after hearing the 3D is James' least favorite of the 3

[@ru71]

@@alecledbetter I have it on my Kickr Bike shift, it was a definite upgrade on the standard one. Haven't tried it on an actual bike yet. Done about 2000km on it, I also got it for half price so which was basically the only reason I went for it over the endurance

[@zmejserow]

SQLab 612R for road bike. Absolute win. No issues on races, on regular coffeerides, on climbing adventures or on brevets up to 300km.

[@joekawasaki]

The slr boost is my go to! I got it as a warranty replacement for a saddle they no longer made. It's super light, lightly padded, and comfortable enough to ride without a chamois!

[@iunnra1s]

Selle Italia Boost 100%. I've ended up installing one on both of my road bikes. The creak is real but completely overshadowed by the ability to ride long hours with no saddle issues at all.

[@Abnsdllnnlosnfd]

SQ lab for the win

[@blaze1148]

...definitely not for me - got the 612 I think and I just as well had sat on the seat post it was so painful !

[@JasonZais]

Recently built up a gravel bike with the Selle Italia SLR Boost Gravel in teal, and by all measures it's the same as the SLR Endurance. It's damn good! After getting into a bit of a saddle hell, it just worked!

[@lerrjlee9347]

Love my Sqlab 612 Active! I can ride in regular running shorts on my flat bar commuter comfortably for multiple hours. With proper bibs on the road bike it's perfect. I bought the wrong size at first, so there was some trial and error on my part. I bought a 15cm, but in the end switched to a 14cm, the 15cm works fine on my XC bike though.

[@McHayes76]

The Power saddle (155 mm) finally freed me from pain down under. So I now have one (or a copy) on all my bikes.

[@M3GRSD]

Fitters have those pressure-sensing saddles so you can see where most of the weight is landing based on your position, so you try a few saddles that the fitter has in his shop. To suggest any of these are good or bad seems silly because everyone's different. To everyone looking for a different saddle, just go get fitted.

[@nluisa]

Totally! I had more than one bike fit with James. SLR boost was torture as soon as I tried it. Ergon was ok(ish). Just lots of chafing after 3+ hours and uncomfortable on more agressive positions. Had a follow up bike fit with Denver, who also works there. I tried the PRO Stealth, and it has been AMAZING! No chafing and I can ride on the drops all day because it is meant for agressive positions (I roll my hips forward a lot). I use a lot less chamois cream too. The wings bother slightly on very long rides (5h+), so I would like to try the curved version.

[@irfuel]

@@nluisa I actually switched from his highly praised Ergon saddle (which I've been using for 2 years) to the Pro Stealth on both my bikes and I haven't looked back. As you said, if you ride in the drops a lot (or like me, on aero/tri bars) the difference with the Ergon is huge.

[@jopsjosef9414]

I'm with James on the Selle Italia SLR Boost. Have them on both my road and gravel bikes. And agree with James, the endurance model with a little more padding is the one I like most

[@TY-wd5fv]

Just finished up a bike fit and came out loving the pro stealth... I due have wide hips and I really appreciate how flat the saddle is

[@E.T_rode_bikes_As_well]

It’s like a superold James video…isn’t it?

[@allrounderbicycle7193]

I have not found the golden saddle. Yet. Thing is I use my bike for everything and prefer locking up an swag bin freebie in front of the grocery store, vs, a nice new San Marco Shortfit or SLR. Riding that line between posh and thrash. Right now on a Fabric Line and can stay comfortable on that for up to 4 hours.

[@andreronan1035]

Currently testing the Fizik Argo Terra x5 Regular 150mm which came with my bike. So far so good.

[@sventice]

Saddles are a really personal thing; no saddle is "the best" for everyone, or even for very many people. The one that works for me is the Fizik Antares R3: it's pretty much totally flat, it has a cutout, rails are reasonably long, and it's not too squishy. I never think about my butt when I ride on this thing, which is precisely what you want from any saddle.

[@frazergoodwin4945]

Selle Italia SLR Boost gravel superflow S3 saddle user here - thank god I stopped using that Specialized Power when I changed my bike from a Diverge to a Checkpoint! Bonus - the blue colour it has goes with my Checkpoint frame colourway!

[@frankmesh5280]

What size were you running in your specialized power? I'm looking to switch away from my 143mm power saddle for something a little better for my gravel riding.

[@frazergoodwin4945]

@frankmesh5280 my Diverge is the 2020 Sport size 58 so it has the 155 size Power saddle. WAY too wide for skinny ass me!

[@impaledface7694]

The end of the video probably explains why I can ride most saddles for my normal 30-50mile ride. Of course longer rides impact it more but I have found most saddles work for me, but I get my fit pretty similar on all road bikes.

[@anthonyoldfield4965]

I swapped out my SLR Boost S3 for a SQLab 612 Ergowave Active 2.1 (13cm) on my road bike, and have the same (albeit 14cm) on my MTB / Gravel.

[@Saladh_Olivier]

Prologo Nago R4 is my fav atm. It has a pressure relieve channel that goes up to the nose of a saddle, which helps a lot when reading in a more agressive position.

[@superglue46]

I actually really like my ISM Adomo. I think its the flatness that works for me, so I'm sure others are out there that would work as well or better, but the Adomo was the first comfortable saddle I found.

[@DZig]

I have a Specialized Power saddle with mirror, and love it! You rated it worst, I rate it tops for my butt! (MTB)

[@JDPhader]

I ride the PRO Stealth 142. When I was testing saddles about 5 years ago this one came out on top together with Prologo Dimension 143 which was a bit harsher on my sit bones which is why I went with the Stealth. This year I decided to try the Selle Italia SLR Boost 130 after watching James' videos. To be honest it was very underwhelming experience. The shape for sit bones didn't go right with me and also caused my soft tissue to sit too low and the edges of the inner channel were digging into it causing pretty big problems. After a week or so I finally went back to the Stealth and it was bliss.

[@yurokle]

I've had a similar experience with the SLR. The edges of the pressure relief channel were putting way too much pressure on my bottom. Maybe the padded version of the saddle doesn't have that issue.

[@nluisa]

Exactly my experience with the SLR boost (fortunately I tried it during a fitting session). I roll my hips forward a lot and the PRO stealth is meant for exactly that. I find the wings a tad sharp on very long rides, so I might try the curved version if this one needs a replacement.

[@CousinsPicturesORG]

I recently bought the road version of the Selle Italia SLR Boost S3 based on James' recommendations in one of your videos and have really enjoyed using it... It's much more comfortable compared to my old saddle which was more flared out like the Specialized Power and had more padding. I was surprised since it felt much stiffer when I first laid my hands on it, but I guess it just fits my butt better :D

[@koganmb]

Ergons have been my goto for several years, but now I'm really liking the Trek/Bontrager Aeolus that came on my Gen 7 Madone. Will be buying a second one for an older road bike. Had planned a repro version of the Flight, but just going to go comfort over vintageness.

[@vinaass]

For me the SMP is the best! The shape, the profile, the cushions and overall look makes a great and comfortable ride!

[@AllThingsAlexanderTromp]

Still absolutely in love with my Pro Stealth. One of the main reasons it works for me is that it's short. Not sure I want to visit a bike fitter if they say shortness is a problem...

[@madmonkeycycling9098]

Went SMP 8 years ago, and never changing

[@Silidons91]

I love my Dynamic. I did have to put a straight seatpost, and run it all the way forwards. But I can ride in it for hours and hours with no issues.

[@JanGoh-jb5ge]

I wanted to try it, but it's absolutely unusable for cyclocross. I don't know why people keep saying SMP saddles are ugly, though. I like the look.

[@Ashbridg3s]

But how do you know if something is better if you don’t try others ;)

[@thomasfitzgibbon1675]

@@JanGoh-jb5gewhy? Does the shape make it dismounting and remounting awkward? I have an SMP on my mtb. Big fan

[@JanGoh-jb5ge]

@@thomasfitzgibbon1675 Yeah, anything that isn't flat and smooth is a problem. I had an Arione for a while and that would snag my shorts as my leg came up. CX remounts aren't really a jump onto the seat so much as a high stride that lets you put your inner thigh on the seat and then slide over.

[@runningwithshemp]

The old Selle Italia non-gel SLC was the best saddle I've ever used. Oddly never promoted by Settle Italia but with it's split wing and dual concave shape it was most adaptable and comfortable for such a low profile seat. At one point I replaced the leather top and replaced the gel inserts with EVA and it was perfect again. I have an SLR and just too little padding, so I'm currently using the Novus but nose is slightly too wide

[@MarkManner]

I know lots of people bash the arione, but I have a good bike position and like it. It is hard for me to believe you put it below some of those monstrosities you have near the bottom of the list :)! I've tried perhaps 50 saddles over the past 50 years, and it on balance it seems to work best for me, including on long rides. Some well known bike fitters have suggested various saddles to me, and I've dutifully tried them, and gone back to the Arione several times after lots of discomfort. YMMV.

[@platypushatstand]

On my Brompton H6R I have tried: - Original Brompton saddle (possibly a re-badged Velo) = instrument of torture, Went to Evans, their Specialized calculator showed my bones to be 120mm +20+3 = 143mm ideally. - Charge Spoon felt comfy until I realised I had 30psi in my Marathons, back upto 60psi = torture, - Brooks B17 Flyer Select = comfy for last 11 years (yet leather is cracking directly ahead of central rear rivets, despite correct Proofide treatment regime and adjustment of saddle nose nut), - WTB Rocket = instrument of torture, - Ergon ST Gel M/L = 2hr+ rides & not comfy, probably too wide, should’ve got S/M, but Ergon calculator reckoned otherwise, - Specialized Indie XT143 (came w/2nd-hand ‘94 Kona Cindercone) = comfy (have bought but not fitted new Specialized BG 143). I also run Ergon GP-4L grips for multiple hand positions and Joseph Kuosac 100mm riser bars instead of original Brompton M bars. Recently noticed position was too flat w/bars rolled forward, so today have realigned bars to vertical to get sweep back (but yet to test ride). I also have Scoliosis (twisted spine) hence my Flyer is a bit cracked under left sit bone, which might also have put uneven pressure on saddle and has created a ridge and a drop in comfort, hence thinking of trying either a Brooks B17 Carved or Brooks C17 Carved. Can’t see the point of bike fit as I mostly ride in Keen Newport sandals (exceedingly comfy) unless cold weather when I’m in TNF GTX Hedgehogs.

[@irfuel]

ok

[@Zyzzyx42]

Infinity Bike Seat. Coming back to upright bikes after years on a recumbent, its the best that I've found. Several friends in ultracycling community praised them, and they have a good following there. would be fun to hear James' thoughts on this oddity.

[@rubenwesterman]

Specialized Romin Mirror 143 on my racebike and MTB. It is the best saddle I ever used and I had many. Its like the Sella Italia Boost but without the hardness. I tried that one in different versions (endurance, etc) but since I ride MTB the most I need good shock absorption to release my sit bones.

[@bikewatcher5428]

Don’t forget the sella SMP Glider probably the most comfy saddle out there I think👍

[@smjunglist6885]

I can't speak for the standard Arione as I've never used it, I can see why it would be bad as there's no relief channel. However, the VS version from years ago is the only saddle I've found which doesn't cause any comfort issues on longer rides. In my opinion It's excellent.

[@jasonmessing]

My race bike is fitted with the prologo scratch M5 and my trainer Bike the Selle Italia Boost SLR Superflow. Both are comfortable and don't rub my thighs like the Specialized saddles did.

[@sharokinisayo7389]

The Selle Italia boost came on my recently purchased Factor Ostro Vam II and it’s the most comfortable saddle I’ve ridden on.

[@rhysmainwaring396]

After a proper bike fit and some saddle conundrums, Sella Italia Novus Endurance Superflow Ti or Chromoly, size S3! Great saddle but as James says, bikefit and individual requirements are the key

[@mipko]

Specialized power saddle is for me most comfortable saddle I currently own, but said that, I have smaller 145mm version even though according their measuring tools I should have 155mm one, but I did tried it and it is too wide for me (120kg bloke with fat ass).

[@zegmakker010]

Yeah I've tried the 130mm Power Mirror and that was extremely comfortable to me.

[@oSirSniffleso]

I use the Selle Italia SLR Boost L3 that he has at the end of the video. Amazing saddle, I'll never use other designs.

[@xelseartheonlyone1267]

1:56 personally Pro Stealth is the only saddle that is the hardest to cause me numbness. Compared to anything else i have tried, even triathlon ones.

[@monkmchorning]

My specs are relatively long, relatively flat across, a bit of a dip under the pelvis, and side skirts to prevent thigh chafing. Selle Italia's 1990 Flite and Bontrager's Serano fit the bill. I haven't needed a love channel yet.

[@gcaldwell4]

Finally!! James is back! 😊

[@rob-c.]

Have we been waiting for a video where someone gives a blanket opinion on saddles, which are in fact, so personal?

[@geoffersmaher]

@@rob-c. by default this is just one mans view so is more andavert for what he sells has sold or what he and some of his customers have enjoyed. man i hate these lists for something that can be different for everyone. the comments are half disagreement so that says it all

[@mohammadtaufek5529]

I been using Fizik Vento Agro saddle for 4 year … & last year I bought Bjorn Setka 3D printed saddle .., it’s the most comfortable saddle ….never look back

[@Silidons91]

I had the exact issue that he stated. My Tarmac SL6 came with the Power saddle. I had to change it, it was horrible for me. I thought I had wider sitbones because I'm a larger dude (low BF, 5'11'' 200lbs) but after I measured my sitbones...they're only 102mm apart! No wonder the Power saddle hurt so bad. The Dynamic has been amazing for me, though if I'm on a really long (like 2+ hour) climb (SoCal Mountains), I will have to stand on the bike for a bit.

[@One_mole_worth]

Curious about jame's thoughts on the sqlabs 612r. Along the lines of bandaid on a problem or a true solution? I've struggled to get an aggressive fit that my flexibility allows for without frontal numbness, despite lowering my seat and having my fit verified. 612r fixed it for me! Just curious if he's used them.

[@adrienarnaud7183]

The Selle Italia Boost (Superflow Manganese S in my case) was by far the most uncomfortable saddle I have never experienced. 😅 I could'nt have a >2h ride sitting on this saddle without having a massive sit bone pain. I guess we all have different bumps and needs. 🤣

[@TypeVertigo]

Selle SMP Hell (Well) from 2015, and a Drakon from 2019. The Hell is my favorite saddle thus far, with a perfect shape for me, but let down by SMP's subpar materials. I've had it refurbished in leather from a local sneaker restorer, and now it's much more robust. The Drakon is more premium, but has taller sidewalls to the saddle frame, so it rides a bit stiffer than the Hell. Still a good saddle, but also ripe for refurb as the foam is starting to crumble.

[@berndberndson4494]

Brooks B17 carved, is my favorite saddle. Made a 250 km Tour with my Gravel bike on it, without any problems...

[@sepg5084]

It depends on your riding position. Big saddles tend to be better for more upright riding positions while slimmer saddles tend to be better for more aggressive riding positions.

[@zbigniewnykiel]

Thanks to James i bought SLR Boost S3 as 116 kg rider. And it is perfect! Also bought ultegra sle pedals!

[@dh7314]

Has it developed the creak yet? I loved mine until the creaking started. Nothing could fix it

[@zbigniewnykiel]

@@dh7314 no. Works perfect

[@kivriel2660]

I have Selle Italia Model X on 2 bikes. Very happy with it!

[@MtKrybnik13]

Tune JM Speedneedle. Perfect shape for me, I'm using it for few years I all my bikes. Amazingly comfortable, and closest to my very favorite Selle Italia SLR pre 2010.

[@bald1der]

In the process of going through a saddle search now. Looking at the Belle SMP TRK. I like a little more padding and width in my seats.

[@clas683]

I tried the Power saddle and had that excact issue with my thighs shafting and the saddle itself wasn’t too comfortable either. I have around 132-140 mm sitbone width depending on hip angle and from Specialized the Toupé in 155 have worked well. But my favorite is Bontrager Verse in 155. First saddle I can do 100 km+ on multiple days on with no discomfort. Using it on both road and MTB.

[@ysarn]

Use Selle Italia SLR XP (old version) and XLR (131mm width) which just work fine and have just the right amount of padding and give whilst still being supportive. Have used the more modern iterations of the SLR XP and find the different padding and shell quite painful. And then of course there were the gel saddles that everyone used to use, which were hard bits of torture for me. Designers of saddles forgot what you were taught at school that liquid (e.g. gel) does not compress. I have a bony behind.

[@PawełzeStarogardu]

i've changed my ergon saddle on Specialized POWER with Mirror and NOW i feel better, much better!!! Nose on level 0 degree !

[@thetruespuddy7137]

I used a really expensive specialized power £140 and within two weeks I returned it and bought a selle italia flite for £30 and it’s made a world of difference actually so good I have it on both of my bikes. There is no best saddle just the saddle best for you.

[@seppel2077]

i use selle italia flite L3 versions since 1992, i use them on road and mountain bikes. we growed as a team ;)

[@robs6750]

Pro Stealth in the wider width is the best saddle I’ve ever used. I own 4 of them now, on all my bikes

[@bumsha]

Cadex Boost is a dream saddle - super comfortable, lightweight, looks excellent!

[@4130Media]

i use ISM on my normal roadbike and it is still the most comfy saddle ever. the split nose allows me to ride on the drop with slammed stem for longer than other saddles

[@christophterres]

Brooks Cambium All Weather Carved. Fits like a Bucket.

[@hartrob]

Is that good or bad? Lol

[@christophterres]

Fits like arse on a bucket is an german proverb and means, fits perfectly.

[@rob-c.]

Superb saddle - at least for me. One of the few saddles I had experience with where I don’t need to wear a padded short - at least for rides I’ve done up to an hour.

[@coryhigginbotham1705]

I had one for about 2 years and it great at first but I started having issue and switch.

[@thomasbrooks2549]

Luv brooks saddle have on every bicycle I own cannot public disclose that number due to being married

[@christianfricke1986]

After trying a number of saddles and adjusting reach and saddle height I have come to rely on Brooks‘s Cambium C17 Allweather. It‘s comfortable, I have no problems with soreness or numbness, I can park my behind where it is supposed to and I can ride it with or without chamois.

[@seandunderdale]

Is it quite flexy? I've got a c19 and it's pretty rigid. Seen a c17 on KZbin and it flexed a lot.

[@christianfricke1986]

@@seandunderdale It is medium flexible - since it's natural rubber, it depends on the temperature, too. But yeah, compared to foamy saddles it is quite rigid.

[@xelseartheonlyone1267]

I tried all saddles except Brooks! Are they really that good? Might try one when i can...

[@christianfricke1986]

@@xelseartheonlyone1267You should. The Cambium Allweather is quite long - so it is not built so well for gnarly off road terrain, but it is really comfortable on long rides on road or gravel.

[@uranusjr]

Valid points on SMP; they do have models (most notably the VT series) with a flat top that don’t make you sit in the cradle that might work better for some.

[@Mikey-ns6nz]

Missed out on the Infinity. Much loved by Ultra endurance types and also people with "weavers bottom" (Bursitis on sit bone)

[@VYBEKAT]

Selle Italia Flite is the only saddle I don't hate. Flat both front to back and side to side. Very stable and supportive. Similar to the Pro Griffon but more T shaped from above. Everything else has excessive contours that make me feel like i sliding off. Only thing I wish for is the foam to be denser and firmer.