Description
The most popular saddle of the 90's was the Selle Italia Flite Titanium for several reasons. First, It was light, with a weight in the low 200 gram range. Second, many riders found the flatter shape more supportive and a better fit for aggressive riding. Third, the dense thin padding was more comfortable than the much heavier and over-padded saddles they were currently using. The padding is firm, but supportive and didn't promote heat or friction build-up. The titanium rails offered flex and passive suspension. In addition to comfort and low weight, it featured an attractive new look- low profile and svelte compared to other saddles of the day.
Unfortunately, in 2006-07 Selle Italia 'updated' the design and stopped producing this original Flite Ti saddle. While some riders liked the new Flite design many preferred the aesthetics, shape and comfort of the original. Many riders were stunned and sought them out far and wide. Selle Italia heard the desires of their long-term fans, and the original 1990 Flite was re-released. It was a best seller then and continues to be a best seller today.
Selle Italia has not released information as to how long they will continue to produce this vintage saddle, but for now, original Flite lovers can breathe easy. Many of the regulars pick one up every 6 months or so, just in case. If you have never ridden the original Flite, but prefer a stiff saddle, with minimal, but effective padding, and a cross between today's narrow and mid-width saddles, we encourage you to give the Flite Titanium 1990 Saddle a try. With the real leather cover, solid titanium rails, and 90% nylon/10% carbon shell, the 220 gram saddle will carry you, as it has thousands of others, to the front of the pack.
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