The design of bicycle saddles has hardly changed since the 19th century. SaddleSpur describes it like this: "Bicycle saddles have looked and felt the same since the 1800s: an uncomfortable stool you sit on while your legs and arms do all the work."
Cycling shouldn't hurt
Whether it's two kilometres or 200 - cycling shouldn't hurt. That's why SaddleSpur has set itself the task of rethinking the bicycle saddle.
The basic shape, i.e. the seat surface, is comparable to many standard bicycle saddles. But what immediately catches the eye is the spur at the back of the saddle. Spur means track, which is where the name SaddleSpur comes from. The patented spur somewhat steals the show from the other highlights. The contoured design and an integrated memory pad as an additional comfort layer are also intended to increase seating comfort. The saddle is fitted in the same way as any other bike saddle.
The manufacturer states that the saddle fulfils the ISO standard for bicycle saddles (ISO-4210-9).
What's with the spur?
The spur at the back of the saddle is intended to provide a secure base, a pivot point that lends more power to every kick. The pelvis is repositioned and the body is supported. This should make cycling more efficient and help the saddle to maximise comfort and performance.
One for all
According to SaddleSpur, the saddle is suitable for all types of cycling. Road, gravel, MTB, city and more. It certainly still has to prove that. Particularly off-road and especially on an MTB, when you're moving your bum back and forth over the saddle, the spur can quickly get in the way. In general, it can be a hindrance when climbing if the leg is swung over the saddle and rear wheel.
We are curious to see how the saddle will perform in practice - and how it will be received with its special design. You can pre-order it from the manufacturer for 125 British pounds, around 143 euros.
Other "unusual" saddle concepts
Bicycle saddle with backrest
Saddles with backrests are mainly used in the rehabilitation sector, where the backrest provides patients with greater safety on the cycle ergometer.
100 % dam relief
SQlab offers the 600 active saddle, a saddle in which the perineal area is 100% free, i.e. not loaded. The saddle is designed for upright sitting positions, for example for city bikes.
More hole than saddle
The saddles from Infinity Bike Seat are another design that is sure to be controversial. The saddle relieves the sit bone areas and is suitable for sporty riding and appeals to triathletes and ultra-distance cyclists. It is no coincidence that the brand is an official partner of the Race Across America. I have come across the saddle several times in practice and the owners have always been extremely enthusiastic. One of them rode the Northcape4000 with it.
Sandra Schuberth
Editor
