Fizik
Select Fizik Category
Recent Reviews
Fizik's 2mm Microtex tape has been my favorite tape for my road bikes for many years. A few years ago, Fizik decided to "fix" it (no, it wasn't broke) with the Tempo, but the Classic version retains most of what I liked about the old tape. It's thin, which I like on my road bike (I use the 3mm Bondcush Classic on my gravel bike), the leather-like surface gives just the right amount of grip (enough, but not so much that I can't move my hands around easily and smoothly), and it looks great.
It's also durable. My current Tempo Classic 2mm tape is over 4 years and 10,000 miles old, and has just one small area of vsible wear. I'm only replacing it now because it's time to replace cables and housings.
It's still my favorite.
First, I had to size down 0.5. I usually wear 44.5 in other brands (Giro, Sidi), but Fizik was a bit large in 44.5. Size 44 fits well and has enough room for a wool sock. Interestingly, the Fizik US sizing was spot on....I typically wear a 10.5 street shoe and the size 44 does actually feel like a 10.6 because there is a bit more room than my normal shoes. The shoes are a great for 30+ degrees. I did a 1 hour ride in about 38F and my toes felt a little bit cold. The shoes are a better option than shoe covers because the plush fleece lining is warm, and they cover above the ankle to keep the ankles warm. The ankle collar feels a bit stiff, but only because all other bike shoes stop before the ankle. I have not problems with the ankle collar, and I would rather have a marginally stiff and warm ankle then the flexibility. Overall they are great and allow me to get outside with more comfort and convenience without messing with 1 (sometimes 2 layers) of shoe covers. I got these on a good sale from BTD so they were good value for me. Full price would be a bit of a tough sell since I can get by with shoe covers.
The Fizik Tempo Aliante provides improved comfort compared to my previous Specialized Romin (level 2 padding) saddle. Usage currently is on my training bike on the Wahoo Smart. I'm considering purchase of another Aliante to replace the Specialized Romin on my outdoor bike. There is definitely an improvement in sit bone comfort. After several hundred miles on the trainer, I have not encountered any downside. IMO the trainer environment is tougher on sit bones than outdoors.
With over 40 years of cycling in my legs I can say this is the most comfortable saddle I have ever used. the last 14 years I used a Brooks Cambria saddle on my Salsa Fargo (different geometry) . When I purchased a gravel racing bike I moved my saddle over to it, after 2 hours I was looking for relief, needing to take butt breaks. With this saddle I ride 5~6 hours without ever thinking about my butt. I also purchased a second one for my Wahoo Kickr Bike, it is like riding on butter.