The American component manufacturer WTB presents three new saddle models, the Solano, Solano SL and Rocket, which are based on the company's own Fusion Form technology. This technology enables the engineers to adjust the flex profile of each saddle precisely to the respective area of use. The aim is to achieve an optimum balance of comfort, stability and durability. The new models complement WTB's existing Fusion Form line and are designed for different riding styles and purposes. While the Solano is designed for long-distance comfort, the Solano SL is aimed at more dynamic rides. The Rocket, on the other hand, is specifically designed to meet the requirements of mountain biking and e-MTBs.
WTB Solano - comfort on long journeys
The WTB Solano is designed as a high-performance saddle for long-distance riders who need optimum comfort and support over longer distances. It features a firm Fusion Form base and strategically reinforced padding. This design is intended to provide isolated support for the sit bones while reducing pressure in the perineal area and at the front. Compared to the Solano SL, the Solano has 4 millimetres more padding under the sit bones and 2 millimetres thicker padding in the centre and on the nose. This padding distribution is intended to improve comfort on long journeys, even for riders without a seat cushion. The compact length, flat padding and rounded rear also allow the rider to move freely outside the saddle. The WTB Solano is available in a medium or wide version.
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WTB Solano SL - dynamics and lightness
The Solano SL from WTB is aimed at riders who are looking for a slim yet comfortable saddle solution for shorter, more intensive rides. It is specially designed for riders with a high cadence who place less weight on the sit bones and therefore require less padding. Compared to the Solano, the Solano SL has up to 4 millimetres less padding, resulting in a lighter saddle with a slimmer profile. Like the WTB Solano, the Solano SL also has a flatter shape, which is particularly suitable for riders who rotate their pelvis slightly under high loads. The firm Fusion Form base and thinner padding are designed to provide targeted support for the sit bones while reducing pressure on the perineum and front. With this construction, WTB promises optimum support and freedom of movement for cycling adventurers.
WTB Rocket - specialist for demanding terrain
The new Rocket saddle is specially designed for mountain bikers and e-MTB riders who are out on long rides in demanding terrain. The side profile of the WTB Rocket has a generous curvature from the tip to the rear to support riders who like to sit firmly in the saddle - especially on steep climbs. A special feature of the Rocket is the so-called backstop function: a hidden ramp at the rear of the saddle is designed to provide a stable surface against which riders can brace themselves on demanding climbs. The Rocket also has an integrated handle under the base and at the rear to make it easier to lift heavy bikes onto pannier racks or over obstacles. According to WTB, this combination of hidden recessed grip, supportive backstop function and rounded rear makes the Rocket saddle the ideal choice for MTB and E-MTB riders on technically demanding terrain.
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Variety of materials and pricing
WTB offers the new saddle models in various designs with different saddle frame materials. The range extends from steel, cromoly and stainless steel to titanium and carbon. The pricing is based on the material used: the steel version is available from €49.95 (RRP), while the carbon frames cost €209.95 (RRP). In between are the cromoly version for 95.95 euros (RRP), the stainless steel version for 109.95 euros (RRP) and the titanium version for 119.95 euros (RRP). From the price-conscious beginner to the discerning lightweight enthusiast, every biker is likely to find what they are looking for here.
WTB Solano / Solano SL / Rocket: Technical specifications
WTB Solano:
- Additional padding under the sit bones: 4 mm
- Additional padding centre and nose: 2 mm
- Available widths: Medium, Wide
WTB Solano SL:
- Padding: Up to 4 mm less than Solano
- Profile: Flatter than Solano
WTB Rocket:
- Side profile: Generous curvature from tip to tail
- Special function: Discrete backstop function
- Additional feature: Integrated handle under the base and on the back
Saddle frame materials and UVP:
- Steel: 49,95 Euro
- Cromoly: 95,95 Euro
- Stainless steel: 109,95 Euro
- Titanium: 119,95 Euro
- Carbon: 209,95 Euro
Stefan Frey
Editor
