Selle SMP Carbon Saddle

The Prologo Kappa saddle that came on my bike was pretty good but on long rides I would get occasional short periods of Wow, my butt hurts. The for three or four days afterward I would experience some numbness in the crotchal area.

I believe in the notion that too much padding is not conducive to long term comfort so I was intrigued by the Selle SMP Carbon Saddle. I took advantage of Bike Tires Direct's 15% off sale and a small pile of discretionary cash and bought one.

My first impression when I sat on it was This is nice. It took me a few short rides to dial in the adjustment and but then was was a little concerned about my awareness of the buttsaddle interface. It wasn't really discomfort but I was afraid of what might develop on a longer ride.

I completed my first 100K ride on the Selle SMP Carbon Saddle yesterday. I don't recall any awareness of the buttsaddle interface, there were no periods of discomfort and at the end of the ride there was no crotchal numbness.

It's a beautifully constructed saddle. I believe all the marketing literature about the scientific design is on the up and up.

Two minor points I wish the increment markings on the rails were more durable, they are already wearing off. It's a carbon saddle with as fine a finish as your frame so you'll want to be careful what you lean it against. Just leaning it against the painted drywall in my garage transferred a little paint from the wall to the saddle (a touch of polish will clean it up). The scratches from the first crash that puts it in contact with the pavement will make me a little sad but I think it will be tough enough to survive however battle-scarred it may be.

I'm sure there are many less expensive saddles what work just as well but I took a chance on this one and I don't think I will ever look back.