Ergon’s business is helping cyclists of all types feel more comfortable and function at their best on two wheels. After innovating in women’s-specific and comfort saddles, it was time to push the reset button on their men’s performance saddle line. I tested (and loved) the Ergon SR Comp Men for road, but now it’s time to see how the Ergon SM Comp Men saddle compares for dirt duty.
Ergon SM Comp Men Saddle Features:
- OrthoCell®-Inlays in the seating area
- Uses TiNox rails
- Made specifically for men
- Nylon composite shell
- Microfiber cover
- Length: 269mm // Width: 160mm
- Weight: 285 grams (Medium/Large, actual)
- MSRP: $90
Optimized for the male anatomy to allow the most blood flow possible.
Dirt-loving Ergon SM Comp
It goes without saying that saddles are among the most personal aspects of all cycling equipment. There is no “one saddle fits all” but there are several that will work for most riders. Mountain bike saddles can be more forgiving than road saddles, so finding a good one for the dirt tends to be an easier job.
Ergon’s philosophy with these saddles is straightforward — build the best-performing saddle, just for men. By doing this, they focused specifically on the male anatomy and inherent blood flow challenges with some saddles. The result is a relief channel and a wide seating area and nose for the most support and overall comfort. Available in two sizes, I’ve been aboard the M/L and it has worked well for my sit bone width of 120mm.
A good view of the shape of the SM Comp Men.
With all testing done aboard the Giant XTC Advanced 27.5+, I was able to get a good sense for how the SM Comp performs for both aggressive XC and trail riding. I typically set up my saddles at about 1-degree nose-down and I did that here. The resulting position allowed me to sit for long periods numb-free and also stretch out and move around a little.
On long climbs, the wide nose comes in handy as a good-sized perch. And, on long, flats, the flared tail offers additional push-off for ultimate performance. After many, many rides aboard this saddle, I’ve yet to have any numbness or discomfort. It performs (for me) as well for MTB as the SR Comp does for road.
I can easily slide fore/aft on the saddle, as needed. Dropping the seatpost and moving behind the saddle is smooth and easy and when it comes time to sit down again, it’s a breeze to land squarely in the sweet spot for ultimate comfort.
The Good
- Excellent comfort
- Easy to find the sweet-spot
- Ability to move fore/aft as needed
The Bad
- On the heavy side
The Bottom Line: Ergon SM Comp Men
While we’re all about equality, it’s good to see a male-specific saddle that addresses the needs of the dudes out there struggling to find a comfortable saddle. The SM Comp has done well for me in all conditions and all levels of aggressive riding. It’s definitely among my favorite MTB saddles ever ridden.
Buy Now: Available at REI
