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| Archives and Online Features : Gear Reviews |
Gear Review: Back in the Saddle
By Joe Lindsey
2006 Jan (Vol. 8, No. 1)
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1) Fizik Arione $135; 800-223-3207; www.fizik.com
Key Features: 248 grams; extra-long nose and rails; carbon-reinforced shell; flexible wings
Thumbs Up: The wing flex while pedaling, so the seat moves with the rider without chafing. The long shape offers control for descending and support for climbing.
Thumbs Down: It lacks the ergonomic cutouts that are now in vogue, but more surface area means you can still find a comfy position.
Best For: The traditional road cyclist seeking supreme comfort and myriad riding positions
2) Specialized BG Jett $100; 408-779-6229; www.specialized.com
Key Features: 260 grams; woman-contoured Body Geometry cutout; gel pads; hollow titanium rails; three available widths
Thumbs Up: Body Geometry is medically proven to reduce pressure on the pelvic bone
and soft tissue. Translation: less soreness and chafing.
Thumbs Down: Like the men’s model, the Jett requires expert fitting to find the right size.
Best For: Women who spend long hours in the saddle, especially on road
3) WTB Rocket V Race $60; 415-389-5040; www.wtb.com
Key Features:
281 grams; comes in three price/weight levels (the Race features CroMo rails); has a Love Channel (ergonomic groove)
Thumbs Up: The slight slope on the rear of the seat helps you power up steep climbs in the saddle without impeding movement on descents.
Thumbs Down: It takes some time to find the best seat angle for maximum comfort.
Best For: Mountain bikers or commuters looking for durability and performance at a reasonable price
4) Terry Firefly $110; 800-289-8379; www.terrybicycles.com
Key Features:258 grams; Vanox rails; Kevlar and leather shell; ergonomic cutout
Thumbs Up: It's ideal for mountain biking, but it can also be used on hybrid and road bikes. Vanox rails are lighter and stronger than titanium.
Thumbs Down: A little pricey, but easy to find on sale.
Best For: Women who favor trail and singletrack and prioritize
comfort
5) Titec Hell-Bent $50; 888-800-5999; www.titec.com
Key Features: 222 grams; synthetic leather shell; CroMo rails; broad nose for more support; rounded tail and depressed center shell
Thumbs up:
The rounded tail makes it easy to slide off the back as you descend steep drops. It's the lightest and most affordable seat, making it an easy upgrade.
Thumbs down:
The center shell didm't offer much in the way of perceptible ergonomic benefit, but the seat is still quite comfortable.
Best for:
Mountain bikers who want an improved ride without spending big bucks
6) Specialized Alias BG $100 (see contact info above)
Key Features: 222 grams; synthetic leather shell; CroMo rails; broad nose for more support; rounded tail and depressed center shell
Thumbs Up:
The rounded tail makes it easy to slide off the back as you descend steep drops. I's the lightest and most affordable seat, making it an easy upgrade.
Thumbs down: The center shell didn't offer much in the way of perceptible ergonomic benefit, but the seat is still quite comfortable.
Best For:
Mountain bikers who want an improved ride without spending big bucks
Last Updated: Apr 10th, 2006 - 09:26:56
© Copyright 1999-2006 by Hooked on the Outdoors
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