The Best Road Bike Seats

The Best Road Bike Seats

sitting of bicycle image by Andrew Buckin from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

As a cyclist's main point of contact with his bike, road biking seats have a tough job: They need to effectively balance comfort with performance. Road bike seats have to be firm enough to provide support for hard, efficient pedaling, but remain soft enough to give riders a measure of comfort for long days in the saddle. The best road bike seats blend these two necessities by utilizing firm cushioning materials that are comfortable yet give riders leverage for hard pedaling.

Selle Italia Flite Gel Flow

Selle's Italia Flite Gel Flow is covered in full-grain breathable leather, and its self-molding silicone inserts provide cushion and a custom fit while the 10% carbon shell adds support. Titanium rails help the silicone inserts absorb road vibrations as well, providing what BikeRadar.com called a combination of "reasonably light weight with huge comfort," adding that the minimal flex in the shell "takes the sting out of potholes." The seat's length allows riders to adjust their position on the seat.

Specialized Romin

Utilizing Specialized's Body Geometry (BG) Design, Specialized's Romin bike seat is a solid choice for riders who want performance as well as comfort. With a cutout running the length of the seat, the Romin lessens pressure on nerves and blood vessels in a cyclist's seat area, reducing numbness and discomfort on long rides. Bicycling.com's Matt Phillips noted that the bike's distinction goes beyond the BG design; he says that the "saddle does seem to have more sweet spots than other Specialized BG road saddles," and that the flared tail adds support for hard pedaling.

PRO Turnix

PRO spared no expense for their Turnix bike seat, which sports carbon rails, a lightweight foam padding for cushioning, and a rib-enforced carbon-injected body for stiffness. A full leather cover adds comfort and durability, and the whole package weighs in at a mere 153 g. Noting its lightness and comfort, Cycling Plus's Paul Smith called the Turnix a mix of all the best race saddles, adding that despite its cushy feel, the Turnix "gives enough support that powerhouse riders will love it."

Article Written By Billy Brown

Billy Brown is an outdoor sports writer living in Northern California. An avid rock climber and trail runner, he's been writing about outdoor activities, fitness and gear since 2005. He regularly contributes to "The Record Searchlight," uncooped.com, and Trails.com, as well as other print and online publications. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Simpson University and is a NASM-certified personal trainer.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword