Specialized's Power Pro is aimed at riders in aggressive positions. A large cutout and wide base offer a stiff platform from which to produce power.

Specialized's Power Pro is aimed at riders in aggressive positions. A large cutout and wide base offer a stiff platform from which to produce power.​

Lowdown: Specialized Power Pro Saddle

Designed for an aggressive riding position, the intriguing short-nosed Specialized Power Pro saddle offers seated comfort during extended tip-of-the-saddle efforts. With several models, three widths, and two levels of cushioning, the Power is an attractive option for a wide variety of riders.

Weight: 207 grams (143mm, Ti rails/carbon shell)Price: $200
Stat Box
[TD] Options: 143mm or 155mm widths, carbon or Ti rails, black or red colorways[/TD]
[TD] Rating:
4.5 Stars
4.5 out of 5 stars [/TD]
[/TR]



Pluses

Minuses
  • Excellent shape for aggressive riding positions
  • Stiff shell not for everyone
  • Multiple widths, rail options, colors, and padding depths
  • Odd look

Review: Specialized Power Pro Saddle

Humanity is a wonder, full of people of different shapes and sizes. This diversity can be an asset but also a burden, especially for those trying to design products that interface directly with human anatomy. In cycling, arguably the most important connection between rider and machine is the saddle. Unfortunately, for many, discomfort is assumed as a required element of cycling. This is not even remotely the case. But finding saddle nirvana can require lots of trial and error, which can be a painful experience.

The carbon base of the Power Pro is quite stiff. For those seeking a bit more cushion, look at the Expert model which receives thicker padding.

The carbon base of the Power Pro is quite stiff. For those seeking a bit more cushion, look at the Expert model which receives thicker padding.​

During my 25 years of cycling, I've ridden lots of saddles. Recently, as my yearly mileage figures have steadily climbed, I've experimented with saddles, both traditional and outlandish. One of the more interesting ones that crossed my path is Specialized's Power saddle, which was launched in March 2015. Designed with an aggressive position in mind, I like its shape for road riding even when I'm not pinning it.

Specialized recommends setting the Power up so the forward section of the saddle is level, with the rear then offering an angled surface to push against.

Specialized recommends setting the Power up so the forward section of the saddle is level, with the rear then offering an angled surface to push against.​

Specialized recommends starting with the nose of the Power three centimeters behind that of a more conventional perch. I ended up with it even farther behind the bottom bracket. Once there though, I was almost instantly comfortable. Perhaps I lucked into a good angle, but with the nose only slightly down, I was a happy camper. (Specialized recommends leveling the front section of the saddle, making the rear of the saddle sweep upwards slightly.)

Continue to page 2 for more of our Specialized Power Pro saddle review


The Power line includes several models, with the Pro model shown featuring hollow titanium rails, a carbon shell, and minimal padding.

The Power line includes several models, with the Pro model shown featuring hollow titanium rails, a carbon shell, and minimal padding.​

I'm using the Power Pro model in a 143mm width. It's also offered in 155mm. With hollow titanium rails, a carbon fiber shell, and only thin padding, it's a light saddle at 207 grams. For those looking to go lighter, Specialized also offers a carbon-railed S-Works version (check out the photo gallery below to see that saddle, which is available in three colors). Riders in need of a bit more padding or even wider options should look at the less expensive Power Expert model with its extra layer of cushioning and widths of 143mm, 155mm, and 168mm.

Currently the Power saddle is installed on a drop bar bike that sees pavement and dirt roads. With its large cutout, there is a part of me that thinks it would be just as at home on my mountain bike. For those interested in pursuing this, you might check the extra padding of the Power Expert.

An interesting feature on the Power Pro saddle is its SWAT mounts, small threaded inserts built into the underside of the saddles base. These allow you to install Specialized accessories that include tube storage, inflation, bottle cage mounts, and more.

The Power Pro is SWAT compatible, with inflation and hydration accessories that bolt on.

The Power Pro is SWAT compatible, with inflation and hydration accessories that bolt on.​

If there is a downside to this saddle, it's on the aesthetic side and only mildly so. The Power is just a tad over 24cm long. That's 6cm shorter than a Fizik Arione and 3.5cm shorter than my regular Selle SMP Drakon. On the bike, while pedaling, you don't miss the extra length. But looking at the bike with the Power installed looks somewhat out of scale.

The S-Works model is a little lighter and a bit more expensive at $300.

The S-Works model is a little lighter and a bit more expensive at $300.​

Rating any saddle is difficult, as this choice is so personal. Because the Power Pro works well for me, I rate it highly. For reference, I'll repeat that my go-to saddle is a Selle SMP Drakon saddle. It's a saddle with an exaggerated pocket and a wide cutout. I've also had good luck with WTB's Volt saddle and PRO's Turnix AF model. If you've had miserable luck with any of the saddles I mentioned, you might shy away from a Specialized Power. If not, give it a look.

For more info please visit www.specialized.com.