Prologo 2016 Scratch 2 Space Tirox saddle

With the proviso that what suits one set of sit bones might not suit another, the Prologo Scratch 2 Space Tirox brings together a decent level of padding with extra width and a rounded profile, with the result being a comfortable and durable saddle.

One of the most interesting things about this saddle is that the level and firmness of the padding allows for a pseudo cutout – without having an actual hole – which helps relieve perineum pressure when you're riding.

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Compared with most other road saddles, the Scratch 2 Space has quite a considerable amount of padding. It's not overly spongy though, a criticism often levelled at well-padded saddles, so doesn't suffer from another common complaint – that it doesn't offer enough support. I felt well supported, without sinking into it too much, even on long rides.

It's also comfortable on longer rides whether you're wearing padded bibs/shorts or not – I tested it with and without, and although it was more comfortable with a pad, it was still acceptable without.

I also didn't notice any significant impact on getting power through the pedals, another thing well-padded saddles can be criticised for. Prologo has used multi-densities of padding, strategically placed – firmer at the rear and softer at the front – so the power you generate isn't lost, as can happen with traditionally padded saddles.

The saddle has a Tirox rail system – light steel rails – which Prologo uses on many of its upper end models. They're certainly stiff, but I did find that after several long, high intensity rides the saddle slid on the rails a bit, so when tightening the clamp you might need to give it an extra half turn.

The entire saddle is built around a carbon-infused shell, which gives it a relatively low weight, with the rails' stiffness helping to counter any bounce. The padding is then finished off with a covering of-easy-to-clean microfibre, which is grippy enough to stop you sliding about when riding.

The Scratch range of saddles have a round profile, offering plenty of support, and the Space version I tested suits those with wider pelvic bones. As somebody who falls into this bracket, I did notice a level of support beyond what I'm used to.

In terms of weight, the extra padding means a few more grams compared with others around this price bracket – the Fabric Scoop Flat Pro at £110 is 190g, Bontrager's Serano RL is 225g and £90 – but sitting on the road.cc scales of truth at 273g (claimed weight is 235g), it's not stupidly heavy.

At a penny under £100, the RRP for something this comfortable strikes me as about right. Yes you can find cheaper, but if you're looking for a comfortable and well-supported bike seat, this would not be a bad investment.

> Check out our guide to buying the right saddle and the best 11 we’ve tested

Of course, there's the caveat that one man's comfy saddle is another's... not so comfy saddle. It's always about personal preference, so what might be comfortable for me might be uncomfortable for you. It is always worth testing out a saddle before buying if you can.

Overall, I was impressed by the Scratch 2 Space. It gives a really good level of comfort without noticeably impacting on how you put power through the pedals. The multi-density padding helps keep you well supported in the right areas, and I'd suggest that long-distance and audax riders should certainly consider it if they are due an upgrade.

Verdict

A very comfortable saddle, ideal for tourers or audax riders who don't want to sacrifice performance