Ergon saddles and my backside tend to get along very well. Their shape and function makes for smooth sailing, so it makes sense that I would enjoy the new Ergon SR Allroad Core Comp Saddle for gravel riding.
Ergon SR Allroad Core Comp Saddle Features:
- Nylon composite shell
- Utilizes CORE HD® technology with BASF Infinergy® material
- CroMo rails with 70mm adjustment
- Men-specific
- Microfiber cover
- Built for all road/CX/gravel
- Available in S/M or M/L (tested)
- Weight: 275 grams (M/L, actual)
- MSRP: $139.95
Comfortable to the Core HD
Without question, saddles are one of the most personal touch points on any bike. I have found several saddle styles and shapes that are compatible with my physiology and personal preferences, but those same preferences don’t always transfer across all riders. My personal preference is a saddle that looks like the shapes Ergon and Bontrager make. My current favorites are the Ergon SR Comp and Bontrager Verse Elite, which gives you an idea of what fits my backside. With that, let’s dig into the new Ergon SR Allroad Core Comp saddle.
The SR Allroad Core Comp is made for modern road/gravel riding and utilizes Core HD technology to further isolate the rider from trail chatter. Available in two widths, I’ve been aboard the size M/L, which is what I ride in all Ergon saddles. While I appreciate the weight reduction and responsiveness of carbon rails, I’m solidly in the standard rails camp these days. It’s just plain easier to install without having to deal with rail adapters and such. In the end, the entire package comes in at a respectable 275 grams. Yes, the PRO Stealth Offroad Saddle will save you ~70 grams, but you’ll be way more comfortable with the Ergon SR Allroad Core Comp — believe me.
The Core HD technology is the star of the show and really smoothes out the ride, without losing liveliness. As I’m riding through rough terrain, it’s decidedly muted, but I don’t feel numb to the trail (if that makes sense). It’s kind of like what carbon fiber handlebars do — reduce chatter but increase trail feel. With hundreds of miles on this new saddle aboard the Open WI.DE. across mixed terrain, I’m a fan.
And, my backside is also a fan. I’ve long appreciated Ergon’s saddle designs and have found them to treat me well. Never have my sensitive bits gone numb and I feel completely supported on my sit bones. Between the anatomical cutout and the Core HD sandwich, my critical areas are happy as can be. During my annual physical, my doctor asked about the types of saddles I ride and I explained how the good ones are made, he was impressed and backed off his concerns. Doctor approval aside, I know my body feels great using this saddle.
When riding in the tops or hoods, in a more upright position, my sit bones are well-supported and cradled. The diagonal lines in the cover aid in keeping your backside in place. And, when moving into the drops, I can comfortably sit there for long periods of time without discomfort or pain.
I can slide fore/aft as needed and the cover never snags on any variety of bib shorts or winter bib tights I’ve worn. The nose width is great and supports my body when I slide forward on steep climbs or aggressive efforts. I will note that the wide platform does make it difficult to slide off the back on steep descents. This is a rare occasion, so it’s not a huge deal, but worth noting if you regularly find yourself in dropper post territory. The SR Allroad Core Comp’s rails offer ample fore/aft adjustability as well. Overall, this one is a keeper for gravel bikes or anyone seeking more comfort without sacrificing performance.
The Good
- Excellent comfort over rough terrain
- Numb-free riding for days
- Plenty of fore/aft adjustment
- Wide nose for added comfort when needed
- Works well with every variety of bib short I’ve tried
The Bad
- A little heavy
- Availability remains slim
The Bottom Line: Ergon SR Allroad Core Comp Saddle
Ergon knows their stuff when it comes to bike touch points — with saddles being arguably the most important one. A great saddle will allow you to ride in comfort for hours and the Ergon SR Allroad Core Comp saddle is definitely one of those. With an anatomical cutout and magical Core HD materials, you’d be hard-pressed to find something more comfortable across all terrain than this one.
Buy Now: Visit Ergonbike.com ($159.95 Pro model is available now)
3 Comments
Typically thorough review! Where do you come out on the Ergon Core relative to the Verse? I bought the Verse in your recommendation and I like it. I appreciate the long rails for fit and the pressure relief cutout.
Both are really good, Rick. The Core layer is pretty magical though. It’s firm enough to maintain efficiency, but significantly reduces chatter to your backside. The best comparison is like a carbon vs alloy bar. Both are stiff and responsive, but carbon bars reduce that ongoing chatter — kind of the same thing with this saddle.
Thanks! I am tempted to explore the Core.