Wanting to add some color to my all-black mountain bike, I opted for a new saddle since it was one of the quickest and cheapest ways to accomplish my goal. There is nothing wrong with the Cannondale-branded one that came stock; it was comfortable and did its job. I just got bored with its appearance.
However, understanding that the saddle is one of the most important, if not the most important contact for a cyclist, I could not simply pick the first colorful thing that caught my eye. If it looked good but caused numbness down there or gave me a sore ass, I knew I would make excuses to not cycle.
Researching, I found the offerings from Fizik - or fi’zi:k, as its spelled on the company’s website – to be highly regarded for its comfort by both the mountain biking and road-going set. The Aliante model was called out numerous times; many cyclists noted how they were able to ride for extended periods of time with it.
At first, I was discouraged since most retailers only carried it in white or black, which defeated the whole purpose of me replacing my saddle. I comtemplated the offerings from Selle San Marco and Selle Italia, because you know the Italians know color! I almost pulled the trigger on one of those until I read too many negative reviews for my taste.
Then, as if by fate, I came across this orangina beauty. =)
You will notice that it says “test,” and that is because these are normally provided to bike shops for customers to sample, and are not supposed to be for sale. I guess I was fortunate to find a roundabout way of picking up a new one. >=)
It is from the Gamma line and has K:IUM rails, which is made up of a proprietary alloy that supposedly provides strength while simultaneously reducing weight – 8% less than solid titanium - (i.e. having cake….). It also has the ICS (Integrated Clip System) feature, which allows for attachment of other fizik stuff (saddle bag, tail lights, etc.) which I will probably also get in the future.
I am not certain of the weight but it is definitely not the lightest. Still, mission accomplished.
Cheers!
Link:
Fi’zi:k