Bontrager Arvada Comp Saddle Review: Comfort, Value, and Performance

Updated at: 24/05/2025

This review dives into the Bontrager Arvada Comp saddle, a budget-friendly option offering surprising comfort and performance. We explore its features, comparing it to its higher-priced siblings, the Elite and Pro versions, highlighting key differences in materials, weight, and price. From the microfiber cover and chromoly steel rails of the Comp model to the lighter austenite and carbon rails of the Elite and Pro respectively, we examine the build quality and performance characteristics of each. This detailed assessment covers weight discrepancies, saddle flexibility, pressure relief features, and overall riding experience across various terrains and distances.The Arvada Comp's suitability for long rides, its ability to absorb road vibrations, and its multi-positional design are analyzed. We delve into the reviewer's personal experience, including a challenging 100km ride, and discuss the comfort levels experienced, contrasting them with other online reviews. The review also considers the saddle's width options and assesses the importance of finding the right fit. Ultimately, this review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the Bontrager Arvada Comp saddle, weighing its pros and cons for cyclists seeking value, comfort, and reliable performance.

Pros And Cons

Bontrager Vada Saddle (Comp Version)
  • Lightweight (253 grams in this instance, lighter than advertised)
  • Comfortable for long rides and climbing, even over 3000 feet
  • Good multi-positional saddle
  • Flexes easily, absorbing road buzz
  • Well-made and nicely finished
  • Padding is firm, might be uncomfortable for some
  • Some users report numbness, though this wasn't experienced by the reviewer

Read more: The 5 Best Bike Saddles for Triathlons

Weight and Specifications

The Bontrager Arvada Comp saddle, the basic version, features a microfiber cover and chromoly steel rails. Trek's website lists the weight at 300 grams, but my scale registered only 253 grams. This discrepancy is unexplained, but the lighter weight is appreciated.

Close-up of the saddle on a scale showing the weight.
Close-up of the saddle on a scale showing the weight.

There are also elite and pro versions. The elite version boasts lighter austenite rails (similar to titanium) and a perforated pleather cover for breathability, weighing in at 216 grams. The pro version uses carbon rails, weighing a mere 169 grams.

Image showing the retail prices of different versions of the saddle.
Image showing the retail prices of different versions of the saddle.

Pricing varies significantly. The Comp version retails around £40, the Elite around £70, and the Pro about £100. I purchased mine secondhand for a much more affordable £10.

Comfort and Performance on Various Rides

Despite its firm padding, the Arvada Comp’s flexibility is a key feature. The saddle flexes easily along its length and wings, absorbing road vibrations effectively. This was a significant factor in my comfort during long rides, including one challenging 100km rough road ride.

Demonstration of the saddle's flexibility.
Demonstration of the saddle's flexibility.

I experienced no saddle discomfort even on long climbs exceeding 3000 feet. This contrasts with one review mentioning numbness during climbs, suggesting saddle adjustment may be a factor.

Close-up showing the saddle's shape and how it can support different riding positions.
Close-up showing the saddle's shape and how it can support different riding positions.

Its multi-positional design accommodates different riding styles, offering support whether sitting forward or back on the saddle.

Materials and Design

The saddle's microfiber cover (described as vinyl-like) includes reflective dots, a feature that is a matter of personal preference. The relief channel is decently wide, though I found it unnecessary.

Close-up shot of the saddle's material and reflective dots.
Close-up shot of the saddle's material and reflective dots.

The underside features a cutout designed to reduce pressure on the perineal area. The chromoly steel rails offer a good strength-to-weight ratio.

Image of the underside of the saddle showing the cutout.
Image of the underside of the saddle showing the cutout.

The saddle is available in three widths (120, 138, and 140mm). The 138mm version was perfect for me, despite my usual preference for narrower saddles.

Image showing the saddle width information
Image showing the saddle width information

Overall Verdict

The Bontrager Arvada Comp saddle exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and performance, especially considering its affordable price point. Its flexibility and ability to absorb road buzz were particularly impressive.

Final shot of the reviewer holding the saddle.
Final shot of the reviewer holding the saddle.

While some reviews mention firmness, I found this contributed to its overall support, and the saddle's flexibility compensated for any discomfort. For those with some saddle experience, this is worth trying.

I give it a strong recommendation, especially for those seeking a comfortable, high-performing saddle at a budget-friendly price (particularly if purchased secondhand). The exceptional comfort, impressive performance and value make it a keeper for me.