Review: Specialized Power Expert Saddle

When Specialized introduced the new Power saddle line, many wondered what happened to the rest of the saddle. In the end, it’s short design is one of its strengths, but it does require an aggressive rider to get the most out of it.

Specialized Power Expert Saddle Features:

• Patented Body Geometry design maintains blood flow to sensitive bits
• Carbon-reinforced shell with minimal PU padding (Level 2) is stiff for longevity and all-day riding efficiency
• Lightweight, hollow titanium rails
• Perforated, water resistant cover
• SWAT-compatible mounts
• Sizes: 143, 155 (tested) and 168mm
• Weight: 233, 235 and 238 grams
• MSRP: $130

Saddle size does matter

I’ve spent the better part of my cycling life in search of the perfect saddle. When new ones come along that look promising, I’ve always got to try them out. As a recent addition to the Specialized Body Geometry lineup, the Power Expert Saddle is made for speed. With its stubby design, wide platform and huge cutout, you’d swear it was a triathlon saddle. While it certainly can handle tri-duty, it is made for road cycling.

The test saddle was the mid-sized 155mm version of the Power Expert and suited my body just fine. To determine your proper saddle width, your best bet is to head to your local Specialized dealer who can help you find the right width for your backside.

Again, the Power Expert is stubby and seemingly-wide. Setup is a little bit tricky, but the included instructions will get you close to the optimal setup. They suggest a 3cm setback from the nose placement of a standard-length saddle. For me, I was closer to 2cm and it didn’t take too long to figure that out. Your setup may vary, but start at 3cm and go from there.

Specialized shoots straight with the Power Saddle and says that it “helps deliver superior performance while in a more aggressive position.” Yeah, I’ll second that statement. If you’re in search of a saddle that can be ridden in an upright position, there are better ones for you. But, if you are looking for a saddle that can provide comfort and performance in the drops, this one is fantastic.

All of my testing was done aboard the Wilier GTR SL Ultegra and was a significant improvement over the stock saddle on that bike. Initial rides felt uncomfortable and stiff until I became more aggressive. Regardless, it seemed as if it took about 10 min for my backside to get used to the saddle — even after hundreds of miles on it. I’d get awkward pressure points that would come and then go away for the remainder of my ride.

The beauty of this saddle is that when riding in the drops, I could ride forever without any numbness or lingering discomfort. Long climbs or flats were equally comfortable, but you do have a little less saddle length to work with. That shorter length is matched with a wider nose, so it’s kind of a give-and-take kinda thing.

The Good

• Rewards the aggressive rider
• Solid perch for power transfer
• Flat shape supports the sit bones
• Huge cutout ensures a numb-free ride
• A variety of color options for men and women
• Smooth cover
• Works well with all kinds of chamois designs

The Bad

• A little discomfort at the beginning of every ride
• Will take some fiddling to set up
• Casual riders should look elsewhere

The Bottom Line: Specialized Power Expert Saddle

If you’re an aggressive rider in search of a wide saddle that will support your backside, the Power Expert should be on your list. Don’t be afraid of the stubby length, just embrace its uniqueness. Get in those drops and drop the hammer for miles at a time and you’ll never even think about this one because it becomes invisible.

Buy Now: Visit Specialized.com