The saddle was really comfortable, even over long distances, and didn't induce any numbness or other such problems. Lightweight and durable hollow titanium rails. Out on the Power Arc again tonight, bloody hell but I hadnt realised how much easier it could be to reach the drops! I run a 155. You've been subscribed to our newsletter. Phenom and Bridge are two different product families. Specializeds first Body Geometry product was a saddle released in 1997 and since then the Body Geometry concept has evolved into a wide range of saddles including the Power Pro. He's obviously had the anti-cyclist training. I meant Power as the third saddle to compare. Saddle selection can be such a fickle thing. It's solidly built and not too heavy. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. According to Specializeds Emma Boutcher, Mimic was intended to mimic womens soft tissue and works to prevent swelling or scarring that can result from a lack of blood flow. It is a snub-nosed, relatively flat design with a moderate amount of padding. The Toupe tends to put more weight on the sit bones, although being flatter you can slide a little easier on it. Compared to the more traditional PU foam used in the original Power, the Elaston provides a softer, more cushioned and vibration-damped area, and it does so without being saggy, unsupportive, or bouncy. Id tried plenty of things, had been fitted before, but the thought of an entire fit with the desired outcome focused on saddle comfort was different (Body Geometry fits dont typically just focus on saddle comfort, theyre a whole-bike/whole-body approach). The revenue from adverts helps to fund our site. 2. Dr Roger Minkow, the key figure behind the Body Geometry saddle range and the thinking man of saddle width, pointed out that a few of their athletes had issues with saddles being too narrow, where their sit bones were not being supported evenly and so the body was forced to unevenly overload softer tissue. Reports of discomfort are anything but rare among female riders, with challenges including soft tissue numbness, pressure points and, in some cases, long-term damage that can really take the fun out of riding your bike. The saddle is comfortable for the longest ride. Viewing 16 posts - 1 through 16 (of 16 total), Specialized Phenom vs. Since writing this, the Specialized Phenom has been selected for a 2015 BikeRadar Editors Pick Award see more here. 130mm. Time will tell. The stiff shell and aggressive shape are aspects of racing but there is a limitation of commuting and recreational riding. I tend to ride a little more upright and shift around on the saddle a fair amount. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. Like many memory foam mattresses, how long before the soft foam on the saddle ends up with permanently compressed points, mitigating its benefits? While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed Excludes Gift Memberships, Discount applies to first year. Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose. The most visible difference between the Power Mimic and the Power is the cutout or lack thereof. Heading out the door? To sum up, the Elaston adds a little softness and vibration muting to the widest part of the saddle where most of your weight should be. If you prefer a saddle with least pedaling then the specialized romin is for you. Level 3 padding: Low/Medium density foam provides the perfect blend of bike feel and cushioning. RobertK October 10, 2019, 11:53pm #15 Except for a year on Flites, San Marco Regal or the new Regale since 1988. The Romin Evo saddle has a long nose and curved profile. Such a personal thing. There has been an ongoing trend of shorter and shorter saddles over the years and throughout this evolution, Specialized has been at the forefront with their popular Power range of saddles. A long and wide nose gives nice support while down in the fall. WebThe Phenom is the best IMO. try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. Weve noticed youre using an ad blocker. A subtle channel in the firm padding is given, with the cut-away in the back third of the saddle most evident. I used to ride the phenom and have moved to power saddle. Shape wise, theres a slight kick at the tail, but the length is otherwise mostly flat. Dimensions of specialized romin and phenom are 143, 168mm, or 155 wide and 143mm or 155mm wide approximately. Advertising, commercial: sales [at] road.cc It was soft like a cruiser saddle where you wanted it to be, and yet firm so that you didnt droop into a bad position or close off blood flow. My Phenom is an older Phenom gel, not sure which exact model maybe Comp as looks like this: whether much difference in padding to current models (Im sure it does, Spesh have an annoying habit of ruining their BG saddles by constantly changing the design) Its definitely firm compared to my usual choices, but for some reason/s it works for me like a champ. I think you would need to try both however i find that for me the shorter saddles work best. I will need to compare it to the 143 mm version a bit more before I decide which one to put on the new bike (currently out of stock in the black S-Works version, so I have both widths on order). (Thinks) maybe thats why its named Phenom and not the full-omenal? It wasnt until a press event with the Body Geometry doctors of Specialized that I considered saddle width as a factor. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). If I were buying a long-distance saddle right now I'd plump for one of these without hesitation. Help us to make it better. This is technically a mountain bike saddle, but its shape is quite obviously the foundation of the shorter-length Power. Power saddle is short nosed and pretty flat, Power Arc is similar to Power, but the "wings" are more curved. Assuming you are referring to his ride on Planche des Belles Filles in 2021 (despite your implication he does not regularly ride without a power Perhaps you yourself have becomeossified to a far greater degree than the tyre gloop ever is? Thankfully there are more affordable options that come close in comfort. With our patented design, MIMIC technology helps create a saddle that Providing a softer material in place of what is typically a full cutout on the traditional Power helps to prevent these issues. Mimic is offered at all price points across the Power range. Would you like to receive offers, updates and events from BikeRadar and its publisher Our Media Ltd (an Immediate Group Company)? Ive went from a Phenom to a Power on my bikes. WebCHECK OUT INSTAGRAM FOR BEHIND THE SCENES AND ALSO GIVEAWAYS FOR SHIRTS!!! So far I've tried the Phenom. 3. Our test model uses Specializeds level 2 padding which has a slim profile and feels very soft at the nose and progressively firmer towards the rear. Most will love the Power Pros shape but my experience goes to show there is no perfect recipe for saddle design, Large cut out relives perineal pressure effectively, Heavy considering it has titanium rails and carbon body. Mimic technology was developed alongside bike fit expert Dr Andy Pruitt from the Boulder Center for Sports Medicine. Patented Body Geometry design is lab tested for both men and women to assure blood flow to sensitive arteries. You can trust Cyclingnews Pruitt, who is also known for his work with Specialized on the Body Geometry fit system, studied changes in female physiology over time on the bike. And then eventually you move into the S-Works level of saddle which offers a full carbon rail and base for further gram-shaving. Terms and conditions of use. I need a new saddle, and it has to probably be a specialized because of the 168mm width option. Weight limit of 240 pounds due to carbon rails. I've docked a couple of points for the surface finish issue, but structurally the saddle has held up well. I believe the phenom and bridge are like more traditional long [nose] saddles. Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. The FACT carbon body is tuned to offer more flexibility or stiffness where required with flexible shoulders but little medially give. Specialized isnt the only one saying thisis an issue; a quick Google search will return a variety of articles from non-cycling outlets discussing an increase in cyclists seeking labiaplasty in recent years. A comfortable and accommodating saddle, even for all-day rides, If you're thinking of buying this product using a cashback deal why not use the road.cc Top Cashback page and get some top cashback while helping to support your favourite independent cycling website, Make and model: Specialized Power Arc Expert Saddle. Because it gives you more comfortable to ride. The Power Arc Expert saddle is intended to provide long-distance comfort, and I can say that I tested this to extremes and found it delivered. This was the only real disappointment I felt with an otherwise excellent saddle. It actually feels like free power at the pedals which makes me wonder just how much I was fighting the other saddles to remain comfortable! In particular, I can only comment on what it's like to ride this with male anatomy (it's a unisex design). Did a desert Dash training ride with the Power saddle (160km) but still used the Phenom for the actual event 2 weeks later. It features the same channel, length, and hollow titanium rails as the original and Pro Arc, but where it differs is in its shell and padding. Although the Power saddle shape is the most popular in the range (with both men and women), Specialized recognises its not the best option for all riders, and is rolling out Mimic technology into more models for women. The short 265mm length shouldnt be mistaken for forcing a set riding position. Im miserable when seated on them especially the widely hailed Romin. I suspect that the wider and slightly flatter shoulders, when compared to the previously reviewed Prologo Scratch, is what causes my discomfort. Fantasy Cycling: game [at] road.cc Due to its stub nose and little rear hang-over past where your sit bones belong, the saddle offers a relatively short 265mm length. Peering across the width, the saddle noticeably curves after the point of sit-bone contact for a smooth and uninterrupted pedaling motion. Specialized claims their testing showed saddle cutouts designed to relieve pressure on soft tissue can actually be the cause of labia swelling. Specialized Power Comp - $100 Specialized Power Expert - $130 Specialized Power Pro - $200 S-Works Power - $300 It fits a whole lot of people on all levels and it's a very discipline agnostic saddle. Phenom tail is lower and nose is shorter, less chance to catch shorts. Specialized Womens Phenom Evo Comp with MimicWidths: 143, 155, 168mmPrice: 84 / $130 / AU$130, Specialized Womens Phenom Evo Expert with MimicWidths: 143, 155, 168mm Price: 105 / $160 / AU$180, Specialized Womens Romin Evo Comp with MimicWidths: 143, 155, 168mmPrice: $130 / AU$130, Specialized Womens Romin Evo Expert with MimicWidths: 143, 155, 168mmPrice: $160 / AU$160, Specialized Womens Romin Evo Pro with MimicWidths: 143, 155, 168mmPrice: 158 / $240, Specialized Womens Power with Mimic CompWidths: 143, 155, 168mmPrice: 84, Specialized Womens Power with Mimic ExpertWidths: 130, 143, 155, 168mmPrice: 105 / $160, Specialized Womens Power Pro with MimicWidths: 143, 155mmPrice: 184 / $240, Specialized Womens Power S-Works with MimicWidths: 143, 155mm Price: 230 / $300. Specialized Toupe S Works on the race bikes, any other model Toupe on every other bike. Ive got my fingers crossed for a Phenom Mimic, but its more likely that the Oura is next in line. Well that is similarly helpful as it is the Fabric Scoop Radius that Ive been using up until now which is the Spoon by another name. With a pressure-relief cutout and available in two different widths to suit your body, this really can keep you riding all day without discomfort. If don't move alot on your saddle then go with the power saddle. If you move alot then go with the Phenom. I even switched my road saddle to Phenom Given this, its no surprise the new Power Pro Elaston with Mimic fits my behind and offers the extra softness that I sought compared to the original. 155mm. It feels like a much flatter platform on top while shelving off nicely away from the thigh area. AG2R Citron rumoured to switch to Van Rysel bikes for 2024, Best budget bike helmets of 2023 - look good and stay safe at reasonable prices, Russell Finsterwald and Heather Jackson win at Belgian Waffle Ride California. Whats it like to be an American cyclist living in France? The padding does enough to soak up minor vibrations and conform to the body, but its firm enough to hold its shape and maintain support. but a 143mm Phenom is almost identical in shape and width to a Charge Spoon. Already have an account with us? We deliver! How does that compare to your own feelings about it? WebPhenom; Phenom Comp: Distance road or trail: 143. Best Cycling Website, BikeBiz Awards 2018, Specialized Power Arc Expert Body Geometry Saddle, in: Plans for 10mph speed limit on Richmond Park hill, in: Controversy over Tadej Pogaar Amstel Gold car slipstream, in: BBC Panorama episode on Oxford low-traffic neighbourhoods, in: Driver arrested after deliberate hit-and-run with cyclist, in: AG2R Citroen to reportedly use Decathlons Van Rysel bikes. Rather, with this review, I want to try to make Specializeds Power saddle range a little less confusing and explain my experience with what seems to be an emerging factor in saddle comfort. Lightweight, durable, and hollow titanium rails. I run Phenoms and they look a lot like the power arc, with a longer nose. While specialized romin ensures you about the durability and improvement of blood flow in the tissues. Specializeds womens-specific Mimic technology caused a stir when it was launched in 2018, not only due to the popularity of the Power saddle it was incorporated into, but for the companys open and taboo-crushing approach to womens comfort. Level 2 Elaston foam provides unrivaled comfort and support on longer rides. Its titanium rails bump the weight to 248g and the price down to $130 / TBC / AU$175. Despite numb hands, it must be noted that I never felt any numbness or discomfort to my delicates. Oversized 7x9mm carbon rails are not compatible with seatposts equipped with side-load clamp mechanisms for 7mm round rails. Im going to keep fiddling to see if I prefer the curved Power Arc or the flat Selle Italia, but if I prefer the Power Arc, is this Phenom MTB saddle effectively the same shape but longer? Sign in to manage your newsletter preferences. This is a very personal decision so be sure you've tried them both for yourself before making your decision. He has even finished first in some of these. What is it that sets our sport apart from most of the other sports/hobbies/lifestyles out there? This saddle is a high performance with special features. Introduced in 2018, the Power Arc is for those that want less support across the back, likely due to suffering from the leg impedance thats common with wider saddles. But for comfort I can't seriously fault it. Hunt 60 Limitless UD Carbon Spoke wheelset review: Great performers, especially when you consider the value too. Tested the Power now for 4days and various terrain. Use code HELLO54 when you join us as a print or digital member and your membership will be half price for the first year. As with all saddles it can be PITA (SWID?) My overuse injury sits within my hip and hamstring, which has proven stubborn to healing and general treatment. Find out more about how we test. I shift forward when climbing and move back a little when descending. WebSpecialized Mimic Saddles - Romin Evo vs Power vs Phenom - YouTube This video is a comparison of three female saddles from Specialized Mimic family. I've had Phenom as well, but that was years ago and I'm no longer able to remember what exactly I didn't like about it. Have tilted back a smidge for 80km on Saturday morning, hoping this allows me to sit up in as much comfort as it lets me sit in drops! This expands on the existing Power with Mimic range that already includes 143 and 155mm widths at S-Works and Pro level, and 143, 155 and 168mm widths at Expert and Comp level. More importantly, a good saddle is supposed to provide proper support so that it doesn't harm your body. I suspect the more standard black model would be better in this regard. It's not bad although there are certainly lighter saddles out there. Let's check more features here: Specialized Romin saddle is very comfortable for roadside racing. All saddles are compatible with SWAT, Specializeds discreet under-saddle mounting system for storage. Katherine Moore is Dartmoor-based gravel and bikepacking expert who judges her rides by stoke level, rather than speed. The Mimic technology takes the place of the Powers open cut-out, and while a breeze isnt flowing through the gap, it retains notable pressure relief. Tough, lightweight, water-resistant Micromatrix cover. I used to sell power saddles like cupcakes at Revolution Cycles and they are extremely popular but if you visit a specialized concept store near you I'm confident they will have both power and phenom saddles for you to demo. Singletrack uses affiliate services calledSkimlinksandwhich means we may earn revenue if you buy a product after clicking a link to a retailer on our site. Innovative Mimic technology uses multilayered materials to maintain equilibrium and minimize swelling in soft tissue. Lacking a visible central cut-out, the Power Pro Elaston with Mimic may not look like the original Power but it is, in fact, identical in shape. The Elaston is noticeably softer under the press of a thumb and is quick to bounce back. Ive also got an ancient Fizik Antares that Im going to try as it does similar. This durable saddle has no sign after hundreds or more miles of pedaling misuse. WebIntro Specialized Phenom Saddle review and thoughts on Power, and Power Arc saddle Brian Maynard 661 subscribers Subscribe 73 Share 8K views 3 years ago This is my There is a good chance that if you like a flatter saddle you will love the Specialized Power Pro and like so many others it could become your go-to option, it's just not for me. With this, it offers a smooth and catch-free shape for moving around on descents, while also offering scuff guards in case you fail to stay on. Cervlo S5 review: A truly exhilarating superbike. The short-nosed Power saddle is also now available at Expert level in a 130mm width, replacing the Toupe 130. Theres a neat tool roll (not included) that bolts in place, A view at the stub nose and channel up front, If youre planning to buy the S-Works or Pro version, just beware that the carbon rails need a 7x9mm oversized rail compatible seatpost clamp, All conditions Cross Country Cyclo-cross Marathon Off Road Road. My sit bones measured on the edge of the 143mm, so I tested both, Specialized uses a special low-friction material on the cover, There is a subtle pressure relieving channel that runs the length of the Phenom, Those two holes at the rear of the saddle are for Specializeds new SWAT system. 3. For those familiar with the Specialized saddle line, you'll recognize the Phenom as its race platform mountain bike saddle. The full Specialized Mimic saddle range for 2020 is below. 2. 1 yr. ago Is the base specialized power good enough or do you have some upper model? Tipping the nose down would relieve initial pains but had the opposite effect, creating hot points on my sit bones, fatigue in my legs and numb hands as the miles racked up. When the going gets rough it has a couple of times now dug sharply into my (admittedly sizable) inner thigh. Dont. With that difference between the two models explained, let's now focus on the Power Arc Expert itself. 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Are more curved with special features to carbon rails are not compatible with seatposts equipped with side-load mechanisms. Join us as a print or digital member and your membership will be half price for first... Miserable when seated on them especially the widely hailed romin as with all saddles it can be PITA SWID. Because of the 168mm width option our sport apart from most of the saddle was really comfortable, over... And various terrain gets rough it has a long and wide nose gives nice support while in! The third saddle to compare while shelving off nicely away from the thigh area of contact. Both however i find that for me the shorter saddles work best code HELLO54 when you consider the too. Ive also got an ancient Fizik Antares that im going to try as it does similar to offer more or. Rather than speed 7x9mm carbon rails are not compatible with SWAT, Specializeds under-saddle. Level of saddle which offers a full carbon rail and base for further gram-shaving more that. Power now for 4days and various terrain to your own feelings about it at all price points the... Also got an ancient Fizik Antares that im going to try both i! 2015 BikeRadar Editors Pick Award see more here saddle width as a print or digital member and your membership be! Performance with special features offers, updates and events from BikeRadar and its publisher our Media Ltd ( Immediate. Kick at the tail, but structurally the saddle has held up well work best, any model... As its race platform mountain bike saddle, but the `` wings are... Are aspects of racing but there is a very personal decision so be sure you 've tried them for... Living in France long and wide nose gives nice support while down in the back third of the saddle no... The thigh area in any design n't move alot on your saddle then go the! For both men and women to assure blood flow in the fall excellent saddle both for yourself before making decision! To ride a little easier on it to offer more flexibility or stiffness required... 1 through 16 ( of 16 total ), specialized Phenom vs given.