The Selle Italia SLR Carbon saddle stands out as a top-tier choice for cyclists seeking a blend of minimal weight, striking aesthetics, and unexpected comfort during long-distance rides. Despite its premium cost, this saddle, characterized by a carbon composite shell and rails, offers a streamlined design and efficient pressure distribution, making it an attractive upgrade for performance-oriented road bikes.
Selle Italia has simplified the naming convention for its latest SLR Carbon, a welcome change from its predecessors. This iteration features a slightly reduced length compared to previous models, now measuring 242mm, while retaining the familiar 130mm and 145mm width options for the S3 and L3 versions, respectively. The SLR Carbon distinguishes itself as the lightest among the diverse SLR lineup, even surpassing the 3D-printed variant, tipping the scales at just 126g for the L3 model. This low mass is achieved through a meticulously designed carbon composite and nylon polymer shell, paired with 7x9mm carbon rails.
The saddle's design incorporates a sparsely padded, handcrafted covering and a generous Superflow cutout, engineered to alleviate pressure points. Its neutral, flat profile is designed to accommodate various pelvic rotations, providing consistent support and allowing riders to shift positions effortlessly. This design philosophy aligns with the comfort offered by saddles like the Repente Quasar, which similarly prioritize adaptable support. A notable visual update includes a more angular, modern aesthetic with distinct ridges, a departure from the smoother lines of older models. The rear section of the saddle has been reshaped, featuring a reduced surface area and a less pronounced flare, potentially improving thigh clearance for some riders. The underside of the saddle also boasts a more refined, sculpted finish, adding to its high-end appeal.
In terms of performance, the SLR Carbon offers commendable pressure management. Initially, its thin padding and firm feel might seem unconventional, but this sensation doesn't intensify over time. Instead, pressure is evenly distributed, proving more beneficial for sustained comfort on long journeys than saddles that offer immediate softness but eventually cause localized discomfort. Pairing this saddle with high-quality cycling bibs is recommended to maximize comfort. While the shell provides some flexibility, its primary strength lies in its stiffness, effectively minimizing road vibrations. However, for extremely rough terrains, riders might find the saddle less forgiving on their sit bones. A minor drawback noted was the saddle's smoother fabric, which, unlike the grippier surface of some competitors, occasionally allowed for slight shifts in rider position.
Considering the investment, the SLR Carbon commands a price of £290. While this is substantial, Selle Italia offers a range of SLR models at various price points, providing options with similar benefits but different weight penalties. For instance, the entry-level SLR Advan offers a comparable experience at half the price, with a modest weight increase. Competitors like the Bjorn Probka offer a lighter alternative at a slightly lower cost, though its cork appearance might not appeal to all. The Cadex Amp, another contender, provides a comfortable short-nose design and is marginally heavier and less expensive, but is limited to one size. Ultimately, the SLR Carbon is an exceptional product for those who value minimal weight, superior aesthetics, and a proven saddle shape, especially if cost is not a primary concern. Existing SLR users might find fewer compelling reasons to upgrade beyond aesthetic preferences, but for new adopters seeking a high-performance, comfortable, and visually appealing saddle, the SLR Carbon is a strong contender.
This saddle represents a superb overall choice for cyclists, delivering excellent comfort, a remarkably low weight, and a premium appearance. While its cost is significant, the availability of more accessible models within the SLR range ensures that the core benefits of the SLR design are attainable across different budgets.