Classic in a new guiseFizik Arione R1 Light on test

Matthias Borchers

 · 29.04.2026

Road bike saddle Fizik Arione R1 Light
Photo: Matthias Borchers
The Fizik Arione is one of the best-known road bike saddles ever. With the new Arione R1 Light, Fizik is bringing its long-distance classic into a modern, lightweight and significantly sportier form. We have tested how the neo-classic performs on the road.

Fizik describes the Arione R1 Light as a high-performance racing saddle with a flat profile and elongated shape. As the longest saddle in the range, it is designed to offer plenty of freedom of movement so that riders can find their optimum position between comfort and power transmission. The central cut-out serves to relieve pressure on the perineal area, especially in aerodynamic riding positions. In this version, Fizik combines a flexible shell with a low-profile, injected EVA padding and a particularly rigid carbon frame. The aim: low weight, high stability and direct contact with the rider. In addition to the R1 Light, Fizik offers four other Arione variants - from the entry-level model to the 3D-printed high-end version, available in various widths.

Four more Arione models

  • Arione R5: 99 Euro
  • Arione R3: 149 Euro
  • Arione R3 Adaptive (3D-printed): 259 Euro
  • Arione R1 Adaptive (3D-printed): 299 Euro

That is our conclusion

With the Arione R1 Light, Fizik is bringing its classic into the modern age without losing its DNA. With its length of 28 centimetres, the old advertising slogan still applies: "The longest in the peloton!". The flat saddle cover and the central recess provide relief, while the striking, delta-shaped rear section characterises the typical Arione look. A new feature is the consistent lightweight construction: the full carbon shell and carbon frame reduce the weight to just 151 grams. The usable adjustment range of eight centimetres allows precise positioning - sporty, stretched or more comfortable. In the wide 145-millimetre version, the Arione offers a stable support of around eleven to twelve centimetres, while the 135-millimetre version accommodates narrower pelvises. The smooth yet non-slip surface allows plenty of freedom of movement without slipping - typical Arione, only more modern and lighter than ever. Four other versions are also available at prices between 99 and 299 euros.

+ Processing, weight, setting range

- No width for large sit bone distances

Matthias Borchers is an expert for clothing and accessories in the test department of TOUR. As an amateur cyclist, he has completed the TOUR-Transalp and the TOUR-Trans Austria. His reportage trips from San Francisco to Sakai and 17 trips to the Tour de France with around 30,000 motorhome kilometres are also formative.

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