Selle SMP Composit

Price Paid:  $180.00 at ebay

Bike Setup:
Ridley. Dura Ace. Ksyrium

Summary:
The Composite has a sophisticated anatomically correct ergonomic design that sets it apart from other saddles, and to some extent, from other SMP models. The lack of padding means a smaller area of contact with your body, but also less friction. It has a stiffer, more responsive, athletic feel than it's softer siblings. The saddle has indentations for the 'sitbones', which makes it unique among the SMP family - the others have padding stretched over the dimples, so the benefit of the dimples is somewhat nullified.

For longer rides, I can slide onto the back ridge of the saddle, or onto the beak for a completely different feel. I ride for 2-3 hrs, so I can't say if the saddle holds up to longer rides.

The saddle gives plenty of control with your thighs, imparting an extra bit of confidence for those rapid weight shifts needed for swift descents.

Strengths:
Weight resting on muscle, rather than soft tissue. Ergonomic design. Quality construction.

Weaknesses:
Expensive. On the heavy side.
The stitched logo on the newer models tend to wear out your bibs. That brings it down one notch in the overall rating. The older model with the stamped logo gets a 5.

Similar Products Used:
Evolution. SMP Pro. Taupe. Arione.