I know recommending a saddle is difficult and I’d not ask anybody to do the impossible. But is there a basic saddle that everybody can compare to? I think I remember somebody somewhere mentioning the Fi’zi:k Arione as a saddle that nearly everybody is familar with. I have also heard that some people love it and some people hate it. So, I am reluctant to get it just to try it and be disappointed.
After listening to an ad on the old place’s podcast, I tried the Sage Beccus on a whim and loved it. I sorta just want to upgrade to something lighter or just “nicer.” It is a bit of a unique saddle and I dont know what to compare its qualities to. In anticipation of “if you found one you love stick with it,” I’ll state here that I have a new Beccus ready to be mounted if I don’t see something that sparks a flame in my heart.
Is anybody else familar with this saddle? Or the shape, and can recommend an upgrade? Is the Arione a decent benchmark to start with if I’m embarking on a new journey?
Thanks and sorry for a long post. About me, I mostly ride a gravel bike on rough chip-seal and gravel.
The Beccus looks quite similar in shape to something like a Selle Italia Novus Boost, that could be worth a try. Most brands now offer either demo saddles or a trial period, so investigate that before you buy. I’d steer clear of the Arione for gravel, particularly if you’re used to a stubby saddle shape already.
What I have done in the past is order used saddles off of eBay and try them on the trainer for a couple of weeks and re-sell if I don’t like them. The problem of finding the best saddle is that you can’t tell from sitting on the bike or riding one time. Indoor cycling position is not identical to riding outsoors, but it is the best method I’ve been able to come up with.
All I can say is that my wife and I had both bought a specialized bike duringthe pandemic and the standard stock saddle (“Body Geometry Power Sport”) fits us both really, really well. I’m not a specialized fan boy at all (it was the only bike I could test ride during that time), but the saddle seems to go well with a surprising amount of different body types.
Believe it or not I’ve found the Selle Italia SLR LADY to be versatile for road use in both upright and, more-so, in an aero position with my hips rolled forward.
The cut out is very generous providing comfort for us blokes, (and the ladies- my wife uses it on her road bikes), on long rides or an aggressive position - if that’s your preference.
I was also surprised how the similar the width between the ischial tuberosities was to other saddles I’ve tried including Spesh, Giant and Bontrager.
As you say, saddles are highly personal. For me the game changer was the Specialized Power saddle. The short stubby shape was counterintuitive to me, but felt more comfortable than anything else I’ve used up until that point. Other saddle manufacturers have followed suit. I also have a Giant Fleet which is similar and I like it just as much, and it has a similar shape.