The Selle San Marco Concor Supercomfort Racing Saddle brings together a retro look with the comfort and tech innovations of a modern design to create one strong performing package.
I initially thought the saddle was a throwback to more vintage designs, but it throws in some modern features that help bring it into the 21st century, such as a the large cutout, Xsilite rails, Biofoam+ & Gel and a carbon reinforced shell.
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Before I get further into the review, there is always a caveat for saddles, in that my perception of comfort and fit is subjective. Everybody has different preferences and body types, so it's always good to test several different saddle shapes and types.
With that out the way, this saddle was relatively comfortable for me. It is not the most padded I have used, although certainly not a boneshaker by any stretch. A nice amount of flex helps negate the need for a huge amount of padding, and this flex didn't seem to have too much impact on my ability to put power through the pedals. That said, it isn't a saddle you're likely to find in the pro peloton...
Part of this comfort comes from the large cutout in the centre of the saddle, which relieves pressure from the perineum and allows for ventilation while riding. It works well, combined with the 'shock absorber system' that Selle San Marco has used, means it's comfortable even on long rides.
The upper is made from a 'microfeel cover', which seems hardwearing and didn't show any marks despite being leant on several walls. It also provides a decent amount of grip, stopping me from sliding around when riding, and providing a decent pedalling platform.
The shell is a carbon-reinforced nylon construction, which seems relatively robust while managing to incorporate a fair amount of shock absorption. The rails used are made from Xsilite, which Selle San Marco claims is 'a material with a high percentage of silicon with particles of titanium and carbon. Light and strong, it turns out to be resistant to all weather conditions'. It certainly seems strong enough, and incorporates some flex, and the rails don't slip in the clamp thanks to the textured section keeping everything in place nicely.
It sits higher than most on the rails, with lower sides that give it the classical look but a curved shape running front to back for a distinctly modern twist. I would normally choose something a little flatter, but this was still relatively comfortable for me, the flex plus the cutout making it not too difficult to find a riding position I was happy with.
> Buyer's Guide: Find the perfect saddle for your posterior
The saddle comes in on the road.cc Scales of Truth at 240g, which is relatively competitive with others in the same price range such as the Selle Italia Flow (listed as 210g), and the RRP of £119.99 is about what I'd expect.
Overall, I was impressed with this saddle. For those looking for out-and-out performance it may be a little too flexy, but for longer rides or just for your runaround bike, it works really well.
Verdict
A very good classic-looking saddle with a huge central opening relieving unwanted pressure
Make and model: Selle San Marco Concor Supercomfort Racing Saddle
Size tested: Size Narrow: 270 x 132mm Size Wide: 270 x 145mm
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
A performance saddle that includes the looks of a more classic saddle while including modern comfort features.
Selle San Marco says: "The new Concor Supercomfort it is modelled on the shape of the legendary Concor Supercorsa. Keeping the traditional U shape for a high saddle stability, it features a big hole recognised for its comfort and perennial relief by recent ergonomic tests."
I agree with its assessment, the large opening certainly allows for increased comfort and it does look similar to the Supercorsa too.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Rail: Xsilite
Shell: Carbon Fibre Reinforced
Padding: Biofoam Plus + Gel
Cover: Microfeel
Size Narrow: 270 x 132mm
Size Wide: 270 x 145mm
Weight: 250g / 255g
Saddle Profile: Open / Waved
Colours: Black/Black
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Well made and maintains its shape despite the large central opening.
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
Performed well: a decent platform through which power can be transferred while also having a decent amount of flex for comfort.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Well made with a durable upper, likely to last for a long time.
Rate the product for weight (if applicable)
6/10
Not too heavy, not superlight.
Rate the product for comfort (if applicable)
8/10
Really strong on comfort given the inherent flex and the large opening reducing pressure on the perineum.
Rate the product for value:
5/10
About what I would expect for a saddle of this quality.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
Performed well, offering good comfort for longer rides, and enough strength to provide a decent platform to put down the power.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The comfort is a real highlight.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Maybe a little too much flex for sprinters, but nothing too major.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
A good classical looking saddle with modern features making it comfortable for long rides; good enough for short, intense bursts too.
Age: 29 Height: 6 ft Weight:
I usually ride: Cannondale Supersix Evo 6 My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 5-10 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding, fixed/singlespeed, mountain biking
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