Saddles Part 4 – SPECIALIZED ROMIN EVO EXPERT...
SPECIALIZED’s saddle technology was developed with ergonomic expert Dr. Roger Minkow. This technology is called Body Geometry. The Body Geometry line of saddles is designed with a cut-out or groove to take the pressure off of the arteries and soft tissues for improved blood flow and comfort. Of equal importance is correct saddle width. In order for a saddle to have the Body Geometry classification, it must allow 75%+ blood flow. To get fitted, you sit on a piece of dense memory foam which imprints your sit bones. A measurement is taken then associated with a table to get your Specialized saddle width (see graphic). They will then ask you a question of riding position which is that final factor in determining saddle width. My results were that I need a 143mm wide saddle. SELECTING THE RIGHT SADDLE Specialized has 4 basic lines of saddles, MTB, Road/Multisport, Recreational and BMX/Youth. The line of Saddles I chose was Road/Multisport. Within this category, there are 3 lines of racing saddles; Chicane, Toupe, Romin. The Toupe and Romin are similar, except the...
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Saddles Part 5 – SELLE ITALIA SLR SUPERFLOW
SELLE ITALIA has a process called idmatch. You get professionally fit with a 4-step system where they measure General parameters – age, height, weight, gender, type of cycling Intertrochanteric distance Thigh circumference Pelvic rotation/flexibility Numbers 2 aboce is used to determine the width of the saddle, while number 4 is used to determine what part of your anatomy comes into contact with the saddle. Funny thing is that even though they measure thigh circumference, they never use it in the calculation, or in the design of the saddle. I will even offer that they need a #5 – Qfactor to complete a move accurate fitment, but more on this later. An example of why #4 is so important is that a cyclist who rides in an aero position could have very little flexibility in their pelvis, which means that even in an aero position, their pelvis is coming in contact with the saddle as if sitting totally upright. In this example, their spine is doing all of the bending. While, at the other end of the spectrum, a cyclist...
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Saddles Part 6 – So Who Won?
SO WHO WON? Which one is the best? Again, testing results are for my body type, flexibility, riding style. Your results may (and probably will) vary. FIRST PLACE: SPECIALIZED ROMIN EVO EXPERT (4.5/5)I found the Specialized to be the best overall saddle when comparing quality, usability, comfort, numbness factor, design and price. Even if this saddle was twice its price, it would be worth buying!What makes the Specialized Romin saddle so comfortable is that they have already designed in everything that makes a saddle comfortable. The Romin has Minimal taper to the side flares No protrusions to interfere with any leg movement Smooth profile of the edge All angles and transitions that flow into the cutout are smooth All curves and arcs on the top of the saddle are smooth – no pressure points. These are all high quality saddles, and the difference between 1st place and 3rd place was 0.5 points. SECOND PLACE: SELLE SMP FORMA (4.25/5)The Selle SMP FORMA is a surprisingly comfortable saddle when you consider there is no padding. I have ridden this...
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Saddles Part 7 – Summary Table
In conclusion, let me say that all of these manufacturers are a credit to the cycling community. Each has spent countless hours researching ergonomics in order to make saddles safer and more comfortable for you-the cyclist. Every cyclist has their own degree of flexibility, riding style, position, etc, and the saddle manufacturers have responded with different lines and models within each product line to satisfy each type of rider. I have looked at all model lines and every saddle manufacturer is using the absolute best materials with the highest quality craftsmanship possible. I was highly impressed with the form, fit and function of all of these saddles, so go out and try different saddles so you can find one that fits you the best. You will not go wrong using any saddle from any of these manufacturers listed! *click on table for full size...
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