Selle SMP Saddles

Headhuunter

I'm thinking of getting 1 of these but they seem to be very expensive! What does everyone think of them? Are they better/more comfortable than the Specialized BG range? I know saddles are very subjective but I'm thinking specifically with regard to reducing numbness and having the "channel"...

Also does anyone know much about the range? There seem to be lots of different types available. Are they like the Specialized BG in that you need to get a fitting to work out which one is best?

Any advice gladly received!

gpreeves

Were you looking at any in particular?

I have a Selle SMP TRK on my winter bike. It's definitely not the lightest or most stylish saddle but I've found it far comfier than other saddles I've used. I don't have any experience of the higher-end saddles but have been more than happy with a product from their lower range.

Headhuunter

Sorry, just had to share this... Don't you just love the Germans for their graphic explanation of how the Selle SMP can help your s*xu*l organs:

http://www.bike-discount.de/shop/k1167/ ... l?mfid=515

Headhuunter

gpreeves wrote:

Were you looking at any in particular?

I have a Selle SMP TRK on my winter bike. It's definitely not the lightest or most stylish saddle but I've found it far comfier than other saddles I've used. I don't have any experience of the higher-end saddles but have been more than happy with a product from their lower range.

I just spoke to someone at the Bike Whisperer, they lend out Selle SMP saddles as part of their bike fits but she said that 80% of people go for the Dynamic model but some people who "wriggle" on their bikes prefer the Glider.... Anyone know these models?

gpreeves

Headhuunter wrote:

Sorry, just had to share this... Don't you just love the Germans for their graphic explanation of how the Selle SMP can help your s*xu*l organs:

http://www.bike-discount.de/shop/k1167/ ... l?mfid=515

Fantastic. I'm glad I've been left in absolutely no doubt as to how it works!

jouxplan

This article will tell you all you need to know, about SMPs in general, and about the differences between each model http://www.stevehoggbikefitting.com/blog/2011/09/all-about-smps/

I had a bike fit at the Bike Whisperer last year, and they loaned me an SMP Dynamic for a few weeks. It was absolutely wonderful. I now have two of 'em, one in white and one in black. Yes, they are expensive - very expensive. But after spending several decades suffering on the usual types of saddle, I have found the SMPs to be a revelation.

The shape is weird and will look odd on your bike. Don't let that put you off. Your butt will love you and your 'important bits' will not get squashed and will instead happily reside in the cut-out. I also find that my legs are happier - I think the shape helps with the pedal stroke. And climbing is a joy, as you settle 'back' into the saddle.

Setting the saddle height is a pain - to get it equivalent to a standard saddle. Tilt is critical. Unlike most saddles, SMPs work best with the nose tilted DOWN, usually around 2.5 to 5 degrees. I found I had to buy a decent digital level to do this, and for me, a tilt of 2.9 degrees is perfect.

I cannot praise these saddles enough. I can ride for 7 hours and still have a grin on my face - no numbness at all. Worth every single penny.

jouxplan

I should add that I tried a Glider too. It did not suit me, though I don't wriggle around much! Better than a traditional saddle, yes, but the Dynamic is epic

Headhuunter

jouxplan wrote:

This article will tell you all you need to know, about SMPs in general, and about the differences between each model http://www.stevehoggbikefitting.com/blog/2011/09/all-about-smps/

I had a bike fit at the Bike Whisperer last year, and they loaned me an SMP Dynamic for a few weeks. It was absolutely wonderful. I now have two of 'em, one in white and one in black. Yes, they are expensive - very expensive. But after spending several decades suffering on the usual types of saddle, I have found the SMPs to be a revelation.

The shape is weird and will look odd on your bike. Don't let that put you off. Your butt will love you and your 'important bits' will not get squashed and will instead happily reside in the cut-out. I also find that my legs are happier - I think the shape helps with the pedal stroke. And climbing is a joy, as you settle 'back' into the saddle.

Setting the saddle height is a pain - to get it equivalent to a standard saddle. Tilt is critical. Unlike most saddles, SMPs work best with the nose tilted DOWN, usually around 2.5 to 5 degrees. I found I had to buy a decent digital level to do this, and for me, a tilt of 2.9 degrees is perfect.

I cannot praise these saddles enough. I can ride for 7 hours and still have a grin on my face - no numbness at all. Worth every single penny.

Thanks for the website! So much information... Will have to read through before making a choice