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MyOtherBrotherL
March 13th, 2009, 10:57 AM
I'm building up my first 29er SS. I'm down to missing just a few minor parts and I'm looking for a recommendation on a good MTB saddle.

((Please keep in mind that I'm 6 foot 1 and I weigh 190 lbs. Although all opinions are welcome; if you weigh under 155 pounds and make a recommendation for a high end, ultra light saddle with Ti rails then expect to be mocked.))

Given my volume displacement and the fact that I tend to break things, I'm looking for something strong and reliable.

Thanks in advance for your recommendations (Even those of you who will ignore the caveat and will feel compelled to ask about the SS or recommend Smart Wool Socks :D )

jabberwocky
March 13th, 2009, 11:07 AM
I'm a fan of the plain, simple WTB Speed V comp (http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/SA703A04-Wtb+Speed+V+Comp+Saddle.aspx?sc=FRG L). Not light, but a good shape for tech riding (easy to get off the back of), durable, and very cheap. I'm not as tall as you, but I'm no lightweight and I am hard in equipment and I've never broken one.

Cjones
March 13th, 2009, 11:08 AM
SDG Bel-Air RL with cromo rails.
Very comfy, not too expensive, lots of color options.

http://www.sdgusa.com/bike_rails.php

http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/14382-270_SDGBC5-3-Parts-67-Saddles/SDG-Bel-Air-RL-Saddle-Cro-Mo.htm

Dr Phil mmkay
March 13th, 2009, 11:10 AM
I'm 125lbs and really like this saddle (https://www.universalcycles.com/shopping/product_details.php?id=20569&category=157)-carbon shell, NiCro rails, 140 g.:rolleyes:

rscobb
March 13th, 2009, 11:13 AM
Great seat. I have one on my blur. Some people love them some people hate them.

http://www.mtbr.com/cat/controls/saddle/koobi/au-enduro/PRD_358048_140crx.aspx


I want another one for my new bike.

Cjones
March 13th, 2009, 11:15 AM
I'm 125lbs and really like this saddle

I rode DCTony's Black Sheep around the Wakefield parking lot when he was running one of those Tioga spiders -- quite possibly the most uncomfortable saddle ever.

jon_baler
March 13th, 2009, 11:51 AM
It may not be pretty or hip, but I love Performance/Forte Classic saddles.

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=11465&subcategory_ID=5210

I've bent other saddles, but I have yet to harm one of these (have them on multiple bikes). I'm 210 or 215 lbs. My first one has been going strong for 2+ years.

Comfortable enough to ride the entire C&O/GAP (350 gravel miles) in 4.5 days on an aluminum mountain bike with Surly 1x1 rigid fork.

Dr Phil mmkay
March 13th, 2009, 12:19 PM
quite possibly the most uncomfortable saddle ever.

I know, right? What some people would do to shave a few grams. :bangshead::hammertime:;)

As for the OP's inquiry: try Transition Bike's Park'N'Ride saddles (http://www.transitionbikes.com/Components_Parknride.cfm). They're pretty tough, looks good, and relatively inexpensive.

toros
March 13th, 2009, 12:23 PM
6'4" 200+ lbs... I love the WTB Rockets in any flavor. They are a little more expensive than the other saddles I have had, but really worth it. Disclaimer: I don't need a wide saddle due to a narrow rear end.. I actually had a few wider saddles and hated them..

t

pepelkod
March 13th, 2009, 12:34 PM
Also around 200 pounds. I also run the WTB Rockets V on most of my bikes. I recently tried a Nashbar Special $20 Ti rail Fizik Aireon imitation. I already bent one of the rails. Get a WTB.

-D

pirate
March 13th, 2009, 12:36 PM
I'm tipping the scales at a hefty 250lbs, and I have not been able to hurt either of my Bontrager Big Earl saddles. (I have them on two bikes) They do have kindof an odd shape to them, but they are very comfortable to me.

http://media.trekbikes.com/images/products/x-large/260403.jpg

chowderbutt
March 13th, 2009, 12:36 PM
since its after lunch I probably am over 200 right now (woke up at 197) wtb speed saddles if you dont mind a little weight. if you can find the juliani saddle (yes I know its a girls saddle) from someone used buy it - it rocks.

ride-n-fall
March 13th, 2009, 01:03 PM
As you know, I am no featherweight, and I love the Specialize body geometry saddles. I forget which one I have on the FS, but I like it.

sourceofdenial
March 13th, 2009, 01:06 PM
What about a B17 Narrow?

The WTB are ok, except many have a plastic shell, so they lose their shape and become concave pretty quickly. Expect to replace at least every two years if you ride a lot.

Are you worried about strength, comfort, fit? Taking saddle suggestions is like borrowing wives, rarely does it ever work out. You gotta find your own.

29x1
March 13th, 2009, 01:17 PM
Spec. Phenom Gel.

atlantis
March 13th, 2009, 01:58 PM
I've had 3 saddles in the last 3 years, a Speed V with cromo rails that lasted a year and half of light trail and a half year of learning to mtb. I crushed the rails...flat. At 220 base weight plus however many tons of gear. The saddle shape was alright, but not my favorite.

My 2nd saddle was a Terry Fly Ti. Nice, but a bit to wide in the rear for descending. Shorts got caught a LOT on it. Might be better with just tights...I broke the rails after a year and month. 1 rail just snapped at wakefield. Just sent it out this week for a new rail for 30 bucks...These damn saddles run like $130/140 now, I got mine for 110. Not sure I'd buy another honestly.

Last 6-7 months I've been on one of the Bontrager Width Fit series from TBL. Mid width, after sitting on the butt-o-meter. It is more narrow then all 3 and less padded for sure, I actually like it the best now, especially when I have to get off the back of the seat for descending. For longer steadier rides I might go back to the fly.