Finding the perfect bicycle saddle can feel like a never-ending quest, with countless options promising comfort but often falling short. This review dives into my personal journey of saddle experimentation, encompassing various well-known brands and designs. I've experienced the unique characteristics of saddles from Selle Italia and Prologo, each offering a distinct riding experience. However, none provided the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and pressure relief until I discovered the Shimano PRO Stealth.This in-depth review details my experience with the Shimano PRO Stealth saddle, focusing on key features like its large cutout, shorter "stubby" design, and relatively flat top. I'll explore how these features contribute to comfort and efficiency, particularly during long rides and when paired with bullhorn handlebars. I'll also compare it to other popular saddles like the Prologo Dimension and Selle Italia Super Flow, ultimately determining whether the Shimano PRO Stealth lives up to its promise of ultimate comfort and performance.
Pros And Cons
- Large cutout
- Stubby (shorter) design
- Flat top profile
- Comfortable for rider's specific pelvic rotation
- Streamlined look
- Matches the aesthetic of the rider's bike
- Stiff
- May not be comfortable for all riders
- Expensive fender attachment
Read more: The 5 Best Bike Saddles for Triathlons
The Search for the Perfect Saddle
My cycling journey has been a quest for the ultimate comfort. I've experimented with numerous bicycle saddles from various well-known brands, including Selle Italia and Prologo. Each saddle offered a unique experience, but none quite hit the mark until now.
The key factor for me was finding a saddle with a significant cutout to relieve pressure points. This feature proved crucial for longer rides and overall comfort. I also considered factors like saddle length, shape and overall profile.
Through many trial and error, I believe I've finally discovered the perfect saddle for my needs and riding style.
Introducing the Shimano PRO Stealth Saddle
My current favorite is the Shimano PRO Stealth saddle. This saddle has a large cutout, which significantly reduces pressure on the perineal area. This is a must-have feature for me, especially during longer rides.
Beyond the cutout, the saddle's shorter length, or 'stubby' design, provides a unique riding experience, especially when paired with my bullhorn handlebars. This configuration promotes a more forward riding position.
Another important element is the saddle's relatively flat top. This design facilitates rotating my pelvis during my deeper riding positions, enhancing both comfort and efficiency.
Material, Comfort, and Riding Style
The Shimano PRO Stealth is constructed with carbon-reinforced nylon, providing a balance of stiffness and comfort. The saddle isn't overly stiff, offering a degree of cushioning without feeling overly soft or unstable. This balance worked particularly well with my riding style.
My riding style incorporates frequent out-of-saddle moments, which minimizes the time spent directly on the saddle. This is a very personal factor. Saddle comfort is incredibly subjective.
The stiffness of this saddle might not suit all riders. Those who prefer a softer ride experience might find this saddle too firm.
Comparison with Other Saddles
I've previously used various saddles including the Prologo Dimension, Charge Knife, and Selle Italia Super Flow. Each offered unique characteristics, but the Shimano PRO Stealth stands out in terms of its perfect combination of features for me.
The Selle Italia Super Flow was a strong contender, another popular option with a large cutout. The Prologo Dimension, while comfortable, lacked the cutout and presented a more flexible feel.
Ultimately, the Shimano PRO Stealth's balance of cutout, length, profile, and firmness surpasses other options, providing the optimal comfort for my cycling needs.
Overall Impression and Conclusion
The Shimano PRO Stealth saddle has become my go-to choice, providing exceptional comfort during my daily commutes and longer rides. The large cutout, shorter length, and flat top perfectly accommodate my riding position and preferences.
While saddle preference is highly subjective, I highly recommend the Shimano PRO Stealth for riders seeking a comfortable, high-performance option with a large cutout. However, its firmness might not be ideal for everyone.
The saddle's sleek design also complements my bike's aesthetics, adding another plus point.