The Intake Ascent SL is a budget-minded steel railed saddle with an injection moulded plastic hull. Add a good slice of well-shaped foam padding and a durable synthetic leather cover, and you’ve got a good perch for your posterior.
The saddle features a gentle swoop to the hull, which allows the rider to find a cosseted position to pedal from, and well-sculpted sides ensure pedalling action is never hindered.
There is also a groove that runs from fore to aft, designed to relieve pressure on the perineum and any resulting numbness, although its effectiveness will depend on your body shape, weight and even the shorts you’re wearing.
At 326g it’s no lightweight, but that’s less of an issue when it performs like a saddle costing twice as much. If you want a lighter yet similar saddle, try the 250g titanium-railed Podium for £10 more.
We found the Ascent ideal for darting around on a 5in trail bike – where comfort is more important than light weight – and it performed on rides up to four or five hours long.