Lightweight and elegant, but usually also uncompromisingly hard: lightweight carbon saddles are usually more for racing cyclists who are willing to suffer than for pleasure-orientated touring bikers. The Munich-based ergonomics specialists at SQlab are now trying to combine lightweight construction and comfort. The "Super 6.1 active" is the new flagship of the saddle line. In its purist version, the saddle weighs just 85 grams. Which means: bare carbon shell. But even with the optional cushion pads, with which you can customise the seating area to suit your personal comfort preferences, the pointer on the scales still settles at a good 100 grams.
However, the saddle also has two other special features. It is woven from carbon fibres and not, as is usually the case, shaped with the help of resin-soaked carbon mats. Munich Composites uses an impressive braiding machine to produce the saddle. This enables the highest possible and consistent production quality and maximises the possibilities of the material. In addition, the seat cover is floating on the frame with an elastomer, which is designed to reduce pressure on the sit bones. The saddle virtually moves with the pelvis. The first Super 6s will be delivered in a few weeks. However, we have already had the opportunity to ride one of the first "prototypes" extensively.
Sophisticated ergonomics and a hefty price tag
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And indeed: the ingenious ergonomics prevent any feeling of pressure. The seat cover with the SQlab-typical "relief level" hardly bounces at all. But the lateral yielding ensures comfortable cranking without the rider feeling like they're on a cutter in wind force ten. The saddle literally snuggles up to your bum. You do have to get used to the lateral "rocking". For the first few kilometres, it feels as if the saddle is not properly bolted to the seat post. After one or two tours, however, it fits.
We rode the saddle without pads and got on well. However, as a marathon rider, our tester didn't have an overly sensitive backside. Bikers who are not quite so hardened should perhaps try the pads. The price of the Super 6 makes you wince for a moment, it is due to the complex production with the braiding machine: 400 euros! A hefty sum. Nevertheless, demand is already so high that, according to SQlab boss Tobi Hild, there is a waiting time of several months. Buyers can choose between two saddle widths.
A more affordable version of the Super 6 will soon be available - seat shell made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic, frame made of titanium struts. The price of this version is expected to be less than 200 euros. Further information can be found on the manufacturer's website: www.sq-lab.com
