Selle Italia SLR TM Saddle

The SLR TM Saddle adapts Selle Italia's SLR line to the self-sponsored cyclist by using less expensive materials that add a few grams of extra weight. But that doesn't mean it's a heavyweight beast; the SLR TM weighs-in at a claimed 30g lighter than the Flite TM model, putting it in the same weight category as saddles that cost almost twice as much. Part of that weight loss owes to the SLR's narrower profile, which suits it for cyclists with sit bones that sit just on the narrow side of average.

It's also got a uniform flatness from aft to fore, so you can move through different positions depending on what the road throws at you. Trying to maintain a gap in the wind? Perch on the nose to tuck into some time-trial power. Grinding out a long climb? Scoot back and engage your gluts and hammies. Whatever the terrain you happen to be racing on, the moderate SLR profile has you covered.

The saddle's reinforced nylon body and added padding are themselves covered in Selle Italia's Duro-Tek synthetic, an abrasion-resistant material that provides a confident platform to let you cycle through those various positions without shredding your shorts. The shell is supported by manganese rails, which add a few grams compared to carbon or titanium but cut price drastically without sacrificing comfort or non-bouncing support.