In this article, we use so-called affiliate links. With every purchase through these links, we receive a commission from the merchant. All relevant referral links are marked with . Learn more.
A bike saddle - like the new Prologo Scratch NDR - has to fit like a pair of shoes. In times of bike fitting and ergonomics workshops, we know that soft padding doesn't always mean a comfortable ride and that the sit bone width of the saddle is just as important as the size of the bike shoes. Therefore, this test is purely subjective - in figures: 69 kilo rider, 12.5 centimetres sit bone distance, 2.5 kg payload as a rule, around 450 kilometres total mileage with both versions of the Prologo saddle.
The new Prologo Scratch NDR saddle is only available in one size or width: 250 millimetres long and 140 millimetres wide. In theory, the width is therefore very suitable for the tester's backside. The length is relatively short, for example in comparison with the SQlab 60X Infinergywhich is 280 mm long. Or the Ergon SR Allroad Core Prowhich measures 262 mm.
Prologo Scratch NDR: Developed to master the climb
According to Prologo, the compact dimensions are aimed at mastering steep climbs on the MTB. This means that the saddle nose does not protrude too much into the air space in front of the handlebars. The Italians cite their "Multi Sector System Technology" as a further climbing aid for the Scratch. Various separate areas of the MTB saddle have specific features that are particularly relevant for cross-country and marathon disciplines.
The two side-rear sections are designed to provide more stability and comfort when pedalling in the rear position on long climbs. The variable density EVA foam padding is 3 mm thicker at the rear for maximum support. The surface of the Prologo saddle is smooth to facilitate movement when shifting weight.
The centre front section, on the other hand, is designed for the steepest and most technically demanding uphill sections. The nose of the Prologo Scratch NDR is wider and flatter than average. You can pedal (quite) comfortably sitting far forward. In this section, the saddle is textured across the direction of travel to maximise support and help maintain a forward position on the saddle.
The "anatomical centre" (actually marked on the saddle) has been moved back by 5 mm compared to the previous model.
Prologo dispenses with the cut-out in the centre of the Scratch saddle
The Prologo Scratch NDR does not have a cut-out in the centre, as many other saddles have - including those made by Prologo. This is intended to provide better protection against dirt and mud from the rear wheel. The base of the new bike saddle is made of long-fibre carbon but still has an oval cut-out under the padding, 12 cm long and 2 cm wide at the widest point, which provides pressure relief. Prologo calls this the Active Base System.
Prologo offers the Scratch in two versions: The saddle with the "TiroX" frame - a lightweight aluminium-steel alloy - offers more comfort. At a weight of 217 g, this should offer a balance between weight and resistance, but also less stiffness for better vibration absorption. Performance-oriented riders can then reach for the stiffer and lighter Scratch saddle with "Nack" rails (Nano Carbon Fibre) made of carbon fibre, Kevlar and aluminium filaments - which is already used in some other Prologo saddles. Weight: 166 grams.
The new Scratch NDR bike saddle is the result of close collaboration with the professionals of 8 MTB teams that Prologo supports.
Details on the Prologo cross country and marathon saddle
- Size: 250 x 140mm
- Saddle weight with neck rails: 166 g
- Saddle weight with Tirox rails: 217 g
- Price: 135,58 € (Tirox) >> available here
- Price: 213,62 € (Nack) >> available here
- Colour: black
Test Prologo Scratch NDR: subjective riding impression
Switching from one saddle to another is always associated with an unfamiliar seating impression, after all, you usually spend several hours together at a time. So a different MTB always feels "strange" at first. My first impression is that the Prologo Scratch is also quite firm in the rear, softer area. Together with a firm seat pad, this feels very direct in the first few metres - with both versions of the bike saddle.
After a few kilometres, however, you get the feeling of merging with the bike and being able to control even small steering movements with your buttocks. Even after 70 or 90 kilometres I had no pressure or chafing problems - the saddle is designed for sporty XC or marathon use in the best sense of the word. The difference in damping between the two saddle racks (TiroX vs. Nack) has to be felt very carefully - the difference in weight and price of the two variants is probably more important for most buyers.
However, the wide saddle nose really comes into its own on long, steep climbs. I was actually able to pedal much longer with my bum sitting far forward. The transverse texture also provides support, just as Prologo promises. Prologo had already experimented with different materials on the saddle nose many years ago.
The only thing that could be an obstacle for some is that the saddle's sliding range on the rails is only approx. 1 cm forwards and backwards. On the other hand, water and dirt roll off quite well and the saddle does not soak up water, even if it stands in the rain for a long time. There was no visible wear on the saddle even after around 450 kilometres.
Marc Strucken
Editor
