The new saddle platform was unveiled at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Val di Sole, Italy, which will take place from 26 to 30 August 2026. According to Selle Italia, sales are set to begin in October.
With the new XC series, Selle Italia is systematically bringing the latest generation of SLR saddles to the race MTB sector. The focus is not only on low weight and efficient power transfer, but also on the demands of modern XCO courses: steep climbs, frequent changes of position, technical descents and the use of Vario seatposts.
Designed for modern XC races
Compared with previous off-road SLR models, the new SLR XC is longer: all versions measure 250 millimetres. The lowered and slightly wider nose of the saddle is designed to provide more contact area, particularly on steep climbs, when riders slide far forward and apply pressure to the pedals.
The rear, by contrast, has a much slimmer profile. Selle Italia’s aim is to make it easier to remount the saddle after tackling technical sections whilst standing. Reinforced side edges are also designed to protect the saddle from contact with the ground and abrasion, without restricting the rider’s movements on the saddle.
Relevant for full-suspension race bikes: The shell has been shaped to ensure there is sufficient clearance for the rear wheel, even when the seatpost is lowered. This is a practical detail, particularly on modern XC full-suspension bikes with short seat tubes and plenty of travel on the dropper post.
Carbon fibre, steel and, for the first time, 3D upholstery
The SLR XC range comprises four models. The main new feature is the carbon option: as well as versions with steel struts, Selle Italia now also offers the SLR XC with carbon struts measuring 7 x 9 millimetres.
For the versions with metal struts, the brand relies on its well-known shock absorbers. Damping elements between the struts and the saddle shell are designed to reduce vibrations and minor impacts from the ground. This principle was already used on the previous SLR Boost X-Cross, which BIKE tested as part of its major MTB saddle comparison. In that test, the sporty, movement-friendly shape proved impressive, whilst the large cut-out can, depending on the rider’s anatomy, also cause pressure at the edges.
The SLR XC 3D Carbon’s name hints at its most significant technical innovation: its padding is produced using Carbon DLS 3D printing. A mesh-like structure with differently calibrated cushioning zones is designed to distribute pressure more effectively and absorb vibrations on rough terrain. 3D-printed saddle pads are already well established in the road cycling sector; now Selle Italia is introducing the concept to its off-road range for the first time.
Superflow or closed shell: Which shape suits whom?
Selle Italia offers the new saddle in a range of widths and shapes:
| Size | Width | Design |
| S3 | 130 mm | Superflow recess |
| L3 | 145 mm | Superflow recess |
| S1 | 130 mm | closed shell |
| L1 | 145 mm | closed shell |
However, the individual fit remains the key factor. The shape of the saddle, the distance between the sit bones, the mobility of the pelvis and your preferred riding position are more important than the material of the struts or the figure on the scales.
An overview of the new Selle Italia SLR-XC models
| Model | Striving | Sizes | EIA |
| SLR XC 3D Carbon | Carbon, Ø 7 x 9 mm | S3, L3 | 399.90 euros |
| SLR XC Carbon | Carbon, Ø 7 x 9 mm | S3, L3, S1, L1 | 289.90 euros |
| SLR XC Elite | lightweight steel tubing, Ø 7 mm | S3, L3 | 199.90 euros |
| SLR XC Advan | Steel tube, Ø 7 mm | S3, L3, S1, L1 | 124.90 euros |
The SLR XC 3D Carbon is the top-of-the-range model in the series. With carbon struts, 3D-printed padding and the competition-oriented SLR XC shape, it is clearly aimed at racers who refuse to compromise on materials. At €399.90, it is also the most expensive saddle in the range.
What is particularly interesting is the combination of high stiffness and precisely tuned damping. The 3D cover is designed to give way where pressure is particularly high, whilst providing stable support in other areas. Practical testing will have to show whether this effect is noticeable on long marathon stages and rough XC circuits.
SLR XC Carbon: A lightweight race setup with no 3D surcharge
The SLR XC Carbon features the carbon struts and basic geometry of the top-of-the-range model, but uses a conventionally constructed cover rather than the 3D-printed one. As a result, it is significantly cheaper at 289.90 euros.
It is the ideal choice for riders who want the low weight and maximum stiffness of carbon struts, but who do not necessarily need the new 3D technology. As a carbon version, it is also available with both a Superflow cut-out and a closed shell.
SLR XC Elite: The sporty middle ground
The SLR XC Elite combines a race-inspired design with lightweight steel struts and shock absorbers. Priced at 199.90 euros, Selle Italia positions it as a sporty mid-range option for ambitious XC and marathon cyclists.
Anyone looking for a high-quality racing saddle with better shock absorption on technical routes, but who doesn’t want to pay the extra cost for carbon, is likely to find what they’re looking for here. The Elite is available exclusively in the Superflow sizes S3 and L3.
SLR XC Advan: An introduction to the new XC platform
Priced at 124.90 euros, the SLR XC Advan marks the entry-level model in the new range. It, too, features steel struts, the extended 250-millimetre profile and reinforced sidewalls. Unlike the Elite, the Advan also offers the closed S1 and L1 versions.
This could make the Advan the most appealing saddle in the range for many cyclists: the classic XC geometry and the choice between Superflow and a closed shell are available here at a significantly lower price.
Conclusion: More choice for competitive mountain bikers
With the SLR XC, Selle Italia is expanding its SLR range into the modern race MTB segment. The new saddle is not only designed to be lightweight, but above all to support the wide range of movements involved in a modern cross-country race: sitting far forward on steep climbs, standing up quickly on technical sections and settling back into the saddle in a controlled manner.
The range is broad enough to cater for different budgets and preferences. Whilst the SLR XC 3D Carbon is designed as the technological flagship for uncompromising racers, the SLR XC Carbon is likely to be the exciting lightweight alternative. The Elite brings the Shock Absorbers into the sporty mid-range segment, whilst the Advan makes the new design and the closed-shell option comparatively affordable.
Maik Schröder
Editor