Topeak makes an unconventional contribution to solving seating problems: the "Allay" saddle has an air bladder covered with mesh fabric where the shell would otherwise taper towards the tip. Its pressure can be individually adjusted using an integrated mini pump. Anyone who tends to feel numbness in the genitals on conventional saddles can, in extreme cases, reduce the pressure to such an extent that the body weight only rests on the sit bones and the perineal area is completely relieved.
In practice, however, the elaborate design does not always lead to the hoped-for relief. Three riders, who each tested the saddle on several rides, rated it from "doesn't work at all" to "unproblematic after several days of familiarisation". They unanimously rated the saddle as very hard despite the padding around the sit bones.
The entry into the Allay programme with three models suitable for racing bikes starts with the "Racing Sport 1.1" for 69.95 euros, followed by the "Racing 1.1" for 99.90 euros. The top version shown here, the "Racing Pro" with carbon shell and titanium struts, costs 169.95 euros and weighs 249 grams including pump (in size M). All models are available in two widths, which is why the manufacturer recommends measuring the sit bone distance before buying.
PLUS: Well processed
MINUS: The top version is relatively expensive
Reference/Info: RTI Sports, telephone 02630/9552-0; www.rti-sports.de
Photo: Daniel Simon
