Many cyclists struggle to maintain comfort in the saddle, and need to take pressure off of the sensitive center zone. For some cut-outs, relief zones, or extra padding may help, but for others a large zone that eliminates all soft tissue contact is necessary. This is true of many racing cyclists as well, including those who have always wanted a Selle Italia SLR but needed a little more sit bone placement width as well. The SLR SuperFlow S Saddle is the answer, as not only does this saddle offer a massive open zone, but at 145mm of max width, adds about 15mm more width in sit bone support.

The essential platform and concept of the SLR series saddles allows Selle Italia to offer versions such as the SLR SuperFlow S. When you see the massive cut-out in center of the saddle, it seems hard to believe the SuperFlow is based on the SLR, but the SuperFlow S has the wider 145mm width and same 275mm length of the standard SLR. For riders who prefer the shape and minimalist concept of the of the SLR, but can't tolerate pressure on the soft undercarriage and perineal artery, the SuperFlow L is the perfect choice.

From a construction perspective, the same carbon-nylon composite shell is used, though with the sizable cut-out, the structure is reinforced so that you get some mild flex, but the essential sit bone support is consistent and provides a powerful pedaling platform at all times. The Fibra-Tex microfiber cover is durable and water resistant. The rails are still titanium, but the 316 ti is a lightweight, solid 7mm round rail, not hollow. This again, is to provide more strength and overall support to the shell, as well as ensure vibration and impact mitigation. The variable, high density padding is still thin, but there is build-up in key zones for ultimate comfort. Suitable for road and off-road use, the SuperFlow L is the ideal saddle for a competitive rider who has mid-width sit bones.

The total effect of the additional overall width, reinforcement, and accommodation for the large opening? How about less than 50 grams of additional weight from the standard SLR. In other words, this is still a race-level saddle. Fit and support with a saddle is truly an individual situation. What may work by the numbers may not work when you are deep in the drops powering down on the pedals. The SLR SuperFlow L takes some of the variables out of play. For those who truly need the narrower sit bone support of the standard SLR shape, check out the SuperFlow "S", which has a 131mm max width.