Fi'zi:k showed off several new variants of some of its most popular saddle designs at this year's Sea Otter Classic for both the road and off-road markets.
'Versus' editions of the Antares, Arione and Aliante Gamma models will all include a shallow depression running the full length of the saddle to reduce pressure on soft tissue. The original shapes are otherwise faithfully retained. If you've previously found the original versions to be comfortable but still want a bit more relief on the more sensitive parts of your anatomy, these might just do the trick.
The new fi'zi:k Antares Versus and Arione Versus saddles both incorporate a wide and relatively deep full-length channel to relieve pressure on soft tissue.
For now, fi'zi:k will only offer the new Versus models with standard k:ium rails and fiber-reinforced nylon shells. One exception will be the Aliante Gamma, which will still include an aluminized fiberglass insert for additional forward flex. Retail prices will be US$139 for Aliante Gamma Versus, US$149 for the Arione Versus, and US$179 for the Antares Versus, all of which should be available around mid-May.
We also spotted a new fi’zi:k mountain bike saddle on both Roel Paulissen’s Cannondale Flash and during Focus’s launch of its new Redskin 29er. The Tundra 2 looks to have more padding than the original Tundra as well as a wider nose and slight bit of relief down its center – but not as much as on the Versus road models.
The upcoming fi'zi:k Tundra 2 appears to have more padding than the original Tundra.
Of the two saddles, one featured k:ium rails and the other braided carbon rails. Fi’zi:k offered no other details, word on cost, or availability.
Just across a small grassy field from the fi'zi:k folks were the Prologo booth and the company's new Nago Evo X10 mountain bike saddle. Prologo aims the X10 at the cross-country segment with a relatively slim profile as on the road-going Nago Evo but a fatter and flatter nose for more comfort on steep climbs and more control overall.
Prologo's new Nago Evo X10 is a cross-country version of its road-going Nago Evo.
Textured edges are designed to provide additional grip for your inner thighs on steep technical downhills, too, while triple density foam padding provides more support on the rear of the saddle but more cushioning towards the front.