Carbon fiber saddles have been around for a while, but they typically belong on ultra-light wall-art builds, rather than a bike that sees dozens of rides a year. Why’ Because they have a track record of favoring light weights over comfort. Selle Italia took this as a challenge, and delivered the SLR Tekno Saddle as a result. Building on the same shape that’s popularized the SLR, the Tekno incorporates a flexible carbon fiber shell that yields a surprising degree of comfort. Even better, Selle Italia managed this at a weight that’s sub-100 grams. The SLR Tekno takes the classic SLR shape, but does away with padding in favor of a lightweight carbon fiber shell. And despite its intimidating appearance, you’ll find that it’s far from being a rock-hard torture device. Instead, the SLR Tekno is actually quite comfortable, especially when paired with your favorite chamois. Granted, it’s not the right choice for loaded touring or casual cyclists. But, for those of us whose backsides have been hardened by thousands of miles of pedaling, the feel is not dissimilar from the original SLR, if slightly more Spartan. The carbon fiber shell has the added benefit of enabling your shorts to slide by with nary a snag, which minimizes chafing–arguably the largest source of saddle-area discomfort. And while the original SLR is admittedly lightweight, the Tekno version drops the weight to a around 95 grams. Yes, that is indeed crazy-light, especially for a saddle that’s intended to be ridden day-in and day-out. The carbon fiber shell isn’t the only factor in the Tekno’s incredible weight. The solid carbon fiber rails are not only svelte, but strong. Better yet, they provide a degree of vibration damping, which reduces the harsh road chatter that leads to both numbness or discomfort. The Selle Italia SLR Tekno Saddle is available in a 131x275mm size and in the color Black.

Selle Italia boasts one of the most distinguished reputations in the industry for its durable, comfortable, and race-proven saddles. The Turbomatic has been a staple in this line since it was unveiled in 1998, and the newer versions continue to improve on that heritage. The Selle Italia Turbomatic Gel Flow Saddle carries on as a favorite for riders of all levels with a leather cover and classic Italian style that tugs at traditionalist heart strings. It’s not a historical throw-back model, though, and it includes modern shock-absorbing technology that delivers race-worthy comfort for any type of road adventure. The Turbomatic Gel Flow gets its surname from the large cutout down the center of the saddle. The cutout lets cooling air flow through and relieves pressure on your perineal artery and surrounding sensitive tissues. It also increases comfort by shifting the main weight-bearing contact points to your sit bones, which are much better equipped to handle weight. Say goodbye to numbness and hello to miles and miles of comfortable pedaling. Selle Italia adds an extra dash of padding to the Turbomatic Gel Flow compared to some of its other saddles, which provides support and cushioning throughout long rides on less-than pristine surfaces. As an added bonus, the lightweight Manganese rails double as little shock absorbers at the tail end of the saddle to absorb vibration and further increase durability. The Turbomatic lets you turn onto that rough chip seal road winding through scenic vineyards with confidence that it will shepherd you comfortably through the route.

SELLE ITALIA SLR T1 GEL BIKE SADDLE MADE IN ITALY SPECIFICATIONS: manufacturer: SELLE ITALIA model: SL FLOW use: road/mountain dimensions: 135 x 275mm* rail material: VANOX shell material: 30% carbon fiber composite cover material: KEVLAR color: black w/silver weight: 241g* condition: in oem packaging *approximate – our measurement