Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Ozona, Texas, USA Date Reviewed: June 18, 2007
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Comfortable and Durable
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Too many different saddles to remember
Bike Setup:
Jamis XLT that I put together with parts from several places
Bottom Line:
This is my favorite saddle. I had one on my old GT Karakoram and one on my Kona Dawg Primo. When I gave the Kona to my son after I built up the Jamis, I kept the Bontrager saddle. The gel insert and the stitching have held up well. Personally, I do not care for a saddle that is cut out for most of its length as it makes me uncomfortable on technical rides of any significant length. I like the gel insert and the cutout in the back. Also, I really like the with of the saddle. I am currently looking for another one for my road bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: February 12, 2007
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Stock on my 2001 Trek Fuel 90 Disk - Earl's Cycle (closed 2003)
Strengths:
WOW! The best saddle I've used sofar. A drop nose to get in/out of saddle quickly with out getting poked. A gel insert for comfort. A wide back end to place my bum on. A cut out for sensitive/important body bits.
Weaknesses:
The gel insert was not placed/sewn in the exact dead center of the saddle. The quality control guy must of been asleep or on holiday.
Similar Products Used:
Stock saddle on 1994 Raleigh Matterhorn & replacement as stock was too short + too wide. A Vetta but not the TT (tri-shock) stock on my 1996 GT Ricochet & the Velo Crossbow when the Vetta wore out.
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek Fuel 90 Disk.
Bottom Line:
The best saddle I've used sofar to date. It has everything I'm looking for with the exception of a leather cover and Ti rails. But, these two features would double the price of a replacement. I'll just stick with the vinyl cover with CrMo rails. Bottom Line: The best saddle I've ever used.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Troy
a Racer
from Utah Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Wheelers Canyon/Maples
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
Came on bike
Strengths:
Weight, Strength, Comfort, Construction, Reliability, Looks, The Bontrager Name.
Weaknesses:
After four years the stitching around the gel pad is starting to wear.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar, XT drivetrain, Avid mechs, Judy fork, Fox shox
Bottom Line:
Hands down, this is one kick ass saddle for the money. It is way comfortable, and if it lasts as long as it has for me, is a well earned investment. I haven't had the problems with the rails that other reviewers have had but perhaps I got lucky. I would recomend it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from North Vancouver Canada Date Reviewed: January 21, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
On Top Bike Shop
Strengths:
Good support, highly durable, comfy where it counts the most.
Weaknesses:
Can't find somewhere to get another one. Rails are a little loose but they went like that after a few months with no real consequences - i've been riding it for 3 years.
Similar Products Used:
Various Vetta, Selle and Velo seats over the last 11 years
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain Element (3.5" dual). Before that the seat was on my hardtail for two years and was comfortable there too.
Bottom Line:
Despite the loose rails I'm going to get another one of these for my other bike as soon as I can find one. The rails went a little loose after a few months but it's been no big deal for three years now. Comfort is the number one factor and I find this seat to be the most comfortable of any practical serious mtb saddle I've ever had. No numbness whatsoever after long rides - pssst, you know what I'm talking about. The stiching on mine started to go a few moths ago so I lined them with Barge cement. Now it's good for another year or two. The leather is still in good shape with no detatching from the base. Great Saddle. One chilli off for loose rails (but who really cares).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vince
a Cross Country Rider
from CA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any!
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
This saddle is very comfortable.Even more so if you are on long ride's.Easy in and out for those technical time's on the trail.The all black look's good too.
Weaknesses:
I have noticed that the rail's are starting to whobble abit but i have put considerable miles on it.If you can ride past that Happy trail's!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized body geometry
Bike Setup:
NRS2,Fox Float,full xtr drivetrain.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking to save weight this is not the saddle for you but if comfort is what you are looking for it's a good performer even for the advanced xc rider.Plus it's kind to nether region if you know what i mean.Soooo having said that go out and ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tmo
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston, MA, USA Date Reviewed: January 8, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint (i think)
Strengths:
Confort. Gel center. Price.
Weaknesses:
Construction is questionable.
Bottom Line:
I used this saddle for close to a year before switching to a Selle Italia Max Flite Trans Am. The only reason I switched was because I did not like how the saddle shakes a little bit on its rails. It started doing this shortly after I got the saddle. While the shaking never effected performance, I did worry that one day it would snap. After using the new saddle for about nine months (I found the other saddle to be better for the road), I am going back to the Bontrager. Shaking aside, I find the saddle comfortable and easy to move around on (i.e. dropping off the back).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a
from St. Cloud,MN,USA Date Reviewed: December 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$39.00
Purchased At:
Out-N-About
Strengths:
Inexpensive, durable and comfortable.
Weaknesses:
Weight...if you're into that.
Similar Products Used:
WTB, Gary Fisher, no name brand...
Bike Setup:
Surly 1x1
Bottom Line:
This is the most comfortable saddle I have used to date. The other saddles mentioned above were all extremely uncomfortable usually resulting in numbness in areas I don't care to discuss. The Bontrager FS2000 on the other hand has never in almost 2 years of usage been uncomfortable or left me feeling numb. I have one on each of my bikes. The price is also tough to beat considering the great performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a Weekend Warrior
from Saskatoon Sk Canada Date Reviewed: September 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This is a good seat it is comfortable. I ride at least 20km each time I am in the saddle on single track
Weaknesses:
Chromoly rails are terrible I have gone thru 2 saddles in 6 weeks. Trek has been great and warranty them for me but !
Bike Setup:
Trek 6700 hard tail 2003
Bottom Line:
Over all the seat has been good I can last for hours riding with this saddle. But The rails are not holding up. I am out of the saddle alot when I ride, for some reason I keep bending these rails I have never bent rails before. The dealer feels that I am too extreme for what the saddle can handle. I am almost 40yrs old Ya okay maybe I am doing things that most guys my age don't do but I am not jumping off cliffs I am riding single track.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rio
a Racer
from Tucson AZ Date Reviewed: August 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$29.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
Comfort and flex
Weaknesses:
Heavy
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Body Geometry
Bike Setup:
Stock FSR XC
Bottom Line:
Great seat for long, everyday riding. Very comfortable and forgiving. If weight is a factor, use this for training and swap to a race saddle for competition. Highly recommended, especially for the price
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy Wang
a Cross Country Rider
from 14273 Forest Crest Dr. Date Reviewed: August 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Castlewood
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
beyond bikes
Strengths:
easy to install, comfortable, fairly cheap, well designed
Weaknesses:
chromoly rails i guess
Similar Products Used:
stock kona saddle
Bike Setup:
Kona Nunu stock.
Bottom Line:
I couldn't wait to install this bad boy on my saddle, previously i was riding with the stock saddle and it was ROCK hard... even with a gel seat cover! I rode with this around castlewood park, MO and it was really nice. I had read the reviews but i suspect the seat wasn't positioned or angled well. Super comfortable and excellent ergonomics, i didn't feel a thing after riding for 15 min. I'm just not sure if the chromoly rails will last... the gel insert is perfect and the seat just LOOKS awesome. Highly recommended and worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Thomas
a Weekend Warrior
from Austin Date Reviewed: July 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
looks nice...
Weaknesses:
isn't comfortble.
Similar Products Used:
Serfas Rx, Tailbones, stock C-dale seat with gel cover.
Bike Setup:
2003 Trek Liquid 10 - stock
Bottom Line:
Ouch! This seat isn't comfortable. I put a gel cover over it and it didn't help much. I have Serfas Men's Rx on my Super-V and will soon have a 2nd one on my Trek. Most of my rides are cross country-ish during the week and more technical stuff on saturdays. It's OK if you are out of the saddle but on the weekdays I'm doing 45 minutes to 1.5 hours in the saddle and it SUCKS! Anyway, I've had it a week and won't have it much longer. 2 chilis because someone, somewhere, might like this seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robin
a Cross Country Rider
from Holland Date Reviewed: June 8, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
It looks good and therefor it has the idea that it feels good.
Weaknesses:
The middle section is letting loose. First a few stitches ant then a whole section. Then that sticky mess is coming to release which sticks on your butt.
Similar Products Used:
Saddles with no midsection
Bike Setup:
Fuel90
Bottom Line:
The bottom-line is that the saddle is not that bad until the weak stitches is coming to let loose.
The next saddle will be an anatomical saddle with a hole in the middle with wings at the end.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tim
a Cross Country Rider
from Macungie, PA Date Reviewed: May 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere Vermont, New Hampshire
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$34.00
Purchased At:
Spokes Bike Shop
Strengths:
Slim design, decent padding, nice soft gel center section
Weaknesses:
Funky stitching on center section, hopefully it doesn't unravel
Bike Setup:
F600 Cannondale, still stock except for Dart/Smoke tires
Bottom Line:
Did several 20 milers on stock C-dale seat - butt always hurt. Did a 42 miler on B-trager, butt didn't hurt at all, works for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mitch
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN Date Reviewed: May 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Looks great. Quality construction. Easy to slide off back for downhills.
Weaknesses:
None really, newer ones do look cheaper. I bought a new one recently since I bent the rails on my original. I ended up putting my old cover on the new rails.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Race Lite
Bike Setup:
Fuel 90, XT, Mars Super.
Bottom Line:
I'm no racer. For long rides it's been a very good saddle, and the cover has lasted 3 years.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
keef
a Cross Country Rider
from uk Date Reviewed: February 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
looks good, squidgy bit on top feels good to squeeze, but that's about all it's good for.
Weaknesses:
stitching around gel insert too obtrusive(!), this worries me
Similar Products Used:
sofa, armchair, barstool
Bike Setup:
yes
Bottom Line:
okayish seat, not spectacular, but i'd feel better about this seat if it was split instead of having the redundant gel insert with dodgy stitching. it looks good though.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian
a Cross Country Rider
from Princeton, NJ USA Date Reviewed: January 3, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Looks good, reasonably comfortable, light-weight
Weaknesses:
Less than six months of moderate use and the stitching is coming undone and the cover fabric is ripping
Similar Products Used:
none yet
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 90, purchased this fall, mostly stock for now
Bottom Line:
Great saddle and at a great price (came with the bike). But less than 6 months use, it's coming apart, so thumbs down...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a
from Canada Date Reviewed: December 23, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
Kevlar sides are nice, the leather on top is also nice, no numbness, good design
Weaknesses:
Possible to hook pants on the nose of it, but don't all saddles do this?
Seems like it's slowly falling apart internally. It moves around a little on the rails now.
Similar Products Used:
Cheap saddles
Bottom Line:
It's a good saddle, but I will probably look at a WTB Laser next time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: December 11, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
Comfortable Inexpensive
Weaknesses:
So-so durability
Similar Products Used:
San Marcos Rolls, Selle Italia Flite, San Marcos ERA, many other brands no longer remembered
Bike Setup:
Klein Adept
Bottom Line:
The FS2000 came with my bike. I have had no complaints with comfort, on rides from 1 to 2 1/2 hours, over all sorts of singletrack. I can't comment on the design features except to say I've not suffered any pain at all from this saddle.
I had some problems hooking my winter tights on the nose as I shifted backwards. So I replaced the droopy tights.
I tore the "fabric" side panel on the OEM saddle, and replaced it with the same model (in a jaunty two-tone!) from Price Point. I continue to enjoy the saddle.
I liked it even more after I upgraded to a Thomson seatpost (I think I positioned it a little better), but that's another review...
This spring, I also replaced the saddle on my road bike (a dingy old San Marco Rolls). I purchased a Selle Italia Flite, based on numerous good reviews, and ended up getting rid of the thing after 2 months, and purchasing a San Marco ERA. Much better, for me. The lesson I got from this is, saddle preference is very personal. The only sure way to be happy is to try 'em. Buy from a flexible store, and you'll be able to find what you need.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Weekend Warrior
from Kent, WA Date Reviewed: November 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Singletrack Bicycles
Strengths:
Good price, comfortable. Great value
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
San Marco Concur light, Turbomatic(on my road bike)
Bike Setup:
Schwinn Homegrown Pro,
Bottom Line:
I have been very surprised and pleased with this saddle. I was 2 miles into a ride with my son and my seven yr. old San Marco broke. I got back to the car and we drove to the nearest shop. I didn't want to spend a lot on a new saddle since I just had ordered a new bike. We put this saddle on and we went back and completed our ride. Since then I have been on several other rides with this saddle and it has not disappointed me. The longer the ride the more comfortable it seems. My new bike will have the Race Lite saddle on it so I think I will be happy with that one as well.
My son wants the FS2000 for him when I get the new bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh, PA Date Reviewed: November 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Bavington
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Looks Cool, slim design, thats about it
Weaknesses:
Hard as a rock
Similar Products Used:
WTB Speed V
Bike Setup:
2000 Trek 8000, LX/XT
Bottom Line:
My ass hurt for a week after riding on this seat. I'm 5'11' and weigh in at 150 lbs. If you are a down hill rider who doesn't sit on his/her ass for long periods of time then I guess this is the seat for you. But if you do a lot of cross country riding where you are sitting for extended periods of time like two hours or more, don't get this seat! The bottom shell is a solid piece of plastic which bruised my ass bones and butt tissue. The center gel insert doesn't even come in contact with your bottom. I just picked up a WTB Speed V which got a lot of good reviews. Unlike the Bontrager this seat has a flexible piece of rubber used for the shell which is much more forgiving. It is definately more comfortable than the Bontrager and is just as easy on the eyes. Check out the WTB Speed or Laser.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bikin fool
a Racer
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: September 23, 2002
I bought my 8000 late '00 and have abused it since then. I realize that as a whole, the bike is stiff, but ive dont 2 years of racing on it, including some enduro races, and all I'm gonna say is ouch. One of the main things I noticed was that the saddle was comfortable for the first 15 min or so, and then it would just start to hurt. Another thing, every time I sat down, I'd have to sit with more weight on one of other sides of the saddle in order to keep a reasonable amount of feeling in my genitals. I'm sure that value-wise the saddle is great, but as for comfort, I prefer Selle Italia Flites. One point in the saddles favour, however, is that it has stood up to some massive crashes without major rips.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Herbst
a Racer
from Bloomington, IL, USA Date Reviewed: September 8, 2002
Specialized Body Geometry Sport (keeps its promise of relieving flesh pressure almost too well -- too much weight on your bones)
Bike Setup:
came stock on my 02 Trek 8000
Bottom Line:
Most comfortable seat I've ever had. Easy to move around on -- getting off the back, leaning forward for climbs, it's almost as if it's not there. I've only had it for 2 months, so I haven't had time to see if it's flimsy as some others here and a couple of people I've ridden with say. Hopefully not, because I'd like to keep it around for a long time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Cleveland, Ohio Date Reviewed: August 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
"Clipped wing" design
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rockhopper
Bottom Line:
Maybe it's just the trails that I ride, or the way I have it set-up; but this is the best saddle I've found for downhill sections of intermediate trail. (note: not the same as a downhill course) Sometimes you want to just stand on the pedals and cruise and other times you want to get your weight back behind the saddle because of some big rocks or serious elevation change. This is the best I've found for going back and forth between those postures. As for rips; I'd torn up 3 previous saddles in a matter of months. This one is just starting to tear after 2 years. As for the rails bending, well, I only weigh a buck fifty and this saddle may not work for the heavier rider. I plan on buying this same saddle soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ManoImano
a Weekend Warrior
from St.Louis Date Reviewed: July 16, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Touring Cyclist
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stump
Bottom Line:
I used to be able to ride only about an hour before my arse used to scream for my skin. This saddle changed all that - the first day, did a 3 hour ride on some unpaved rd, and would have done more if not for the time constraint. Amazing saddle.
5 flaming cat turds for this baby!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Ruzich
a Cross Country Rider
from Hillside,Il Date Reviewed: July 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hills and dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
With Bike @American Bicycle and Fitness
Strengths:
I have had no discomfort with the saddle
Weaknesses:
Plastic Lower lip caught and ripped shorts. Emailed trak and they said it ha no real function. Then why put it on. Ran into someone at Wors Cup who had same problem, as did a riding partner
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2001 Trek 8000
Bottom Line:
Saddle is fine. A bit of electrical tap solves the snagging the shorts problem and lends a salty look to the saddle. When I have had to get off the saddle fast, it has allowed me to. As mentioned before, even at the young age of 51 and still in my first year of MTB racing, the saddle feels fine.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Laramie WY (like no place on earth) USA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Not totally uncomfortable.
Weaknesses:
Ripped in to places on my first ride! Relatively mellow fall caused two huge rips. On closer inspection, the seat material appears to be vinyl, not leather.
Similar Products Used:
various random saddles, mostly specialized or Performance, none of which ripped.
Bike Setup:
Trek 8000 Stock (expect now have Terry Fly)
Bottom Line:
Ok, I'm not a materials scientist, but I think I know the difference between leather and vinyl. Showed the ripped saddle to the owner of the shop and he said it was vinyl as well. Both the Bontrager and the Trek site describe this saddle as leather. Personally I wouldn't care either way (hey, save the cows) if they both worked equally well. But I can't imagine a true leather saddle ripping like this. The seat is reasonably comfortable, though much less so and heavier than the Terry Fly a friend gave me. My problem is that this would seem to be false advertising. Have not been overwhelmed with the feedback I've gotten from Trek or Bontrager when I called or emailed them with my complaint. What is the deal?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sprocketeer
a Cross Country Rider
from Narashino, Chiba, Japan (native of New York) Date Reviewed: June 23, 2002
Favorite Trail:
I like it rough and dirty, baby!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Seo Cycle (pro shop), Tokyo Bay LalaPort shopping mall, Minami-Funabashi, Chiba, Japan
Strengths:
Once I got it adjusted right (angle/height) it became very comfortable--the best saddle I've ever ridden on.
The gel insert is nice. I don't think the saddle would be uncomfortable without it, but I'm glad it's there.
Durable design, looks great (mine is black and red), excellent craftsmanship.
Because of the shape, the saddle supports me completely yet doesn't hinder my riding like a nice comfy "sport" saddle would.
Weaknesses:
One day the rails creaked a lot and I couldn't figure out how to make it stop, but that happened on other saddles I've used when they were new and I think it's nothing to worry about. I adjusted it again and it was fine from then on.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager Selle San Marco (the most torturous saddle I've ever ridden), TFI ergonomic saddle (which was the most comfortable saddle ever until the F2000), various others all the way back to the sparkly-blue banana seat on the Schwinn I rode as a kid handed down to me from my uncle.
Bike Setup:
2002 Trek 8000, stock except for Shimano 959 pedals
Bottom Line:
A lot of people flamed this saddle and since it came stock on my new Trek I begged the shop guys to give me something different or no saddle so I could just pick one, but they wouldn't go for it--and thank goodness!
This is easily the most comfortable saddle I've ever ridden on since I adjusted it correctly.
If it's angled wrong or at the wrong height than it can get uncomfortable, but the only saddles that don't do that are big cushy "sport" or "recreation" saddles--and if you're bothering to read reviews then I'm sure that's not what you want.
This saddle doesn't constrict my motion at all and I have none of the problems I've had with every other saddle concerning butt, crotch, or back pain.
Great saddle, great quality and design. I ride 50 miles or more and it still feels fine.
Thank you to Mr. Bontrager!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SledgeFoot
a Cross Country Rider
from W. LA Date Reviewed: May 4, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
- Price - Clipped shape
Weaknesses:
- Pressure on the crotch
Bike Setup:
Stumpjumper dual susp
Bottom Line:
Even though it has the gel crotch region, I still felt too much pressure on my crotch. I am a thin rider.
The clipped shape does make it easier to slide behind the saddle. Such a simple and great idea.
The dipped shape nose prevents my shorts from snagging. The best of any saddle design.
I had to get rid of it because it was uncomfortable for the above reason and didn't seem to offer good sitbone comfort for all day rides. No problems for 20 min rides, but on 1 hour rides, it was uncomfortable.
I bought this saddle for $10 from the discount bin. So no lose and I will just ebay this saddle for whatever.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pieter Morgan
a Racer
from the Moon Date Reviewed: April 9, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Sea of Tranquillity
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Earth
Strengths:
This saddle kicks. Up here on the moon, it is very light, and it absorbs the big hits, as it is almost suspended on its rails
Weaknesses:
the plastic cover under the nose sliced my airlock on my suit, causing me to loose a lot of oxygen apart from that it is a great saddle
Submitted by
MountainYodel
a Weekend Warrior
from Vienna, Austria Date Reviewed: March 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Sophien Alps
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came with bike.
Strengths:
--Cosmetics are attractive. --Gel is comfy. --Seat is a delight for my backside. --Ease of use in technical riding. --Easy to adjust angle.
Weaknesses:
--None.
Bike Setup:
2002 model Trek 8000.
Bottom Line:
Saddles have gotten better year after year over the past dozen years. Wow! Just hop on an older saddle for a reminder. No amount of padding that comes in your cycling pants can overcome those oldies (leather, hard plastic, early gel attempts). With today's cycling pants and comfortable saddles such as the FS 2000 - riding is a breeze.
This saddle is a delight to sit upon and even after three hour rides on bumpy trails, my backside is still "happy". Anyone upgrading from a lower quality seat should consider this Bontrager model and anyone looking to buy a new bike should be content with the FS 2000 mounted on their ride. Some backsides will probably never be content with any saddle, but then again - there are always recumbent bikes for those who cannot shake their sore butts no matter what saddle they mount...
--M.Y.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CAHLHEIM
a Weekend Warrior
from St.Charles, MO. Date Reviewed: March 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Castlewood State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
Quality Good looks Gotta love gel!
Weaknesses:
Weight Weight Weight
Similar Products Used:
Stock Koski
Bike Setup:
Mostly stock with XT front and rear derailleures, XT shifters, stubby bar ends, & this saddle.
Bottom Line:
Doesn't abuse the bum. Much more rider friendly, but added some weight.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Miller
a Cross Country Rider
from Bowling Green, KY Date Reviewed: March 16, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Sal Hollow
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
free from a buddy
Strengths:
comfort, looks, gel, rails
Weaknesses:
maybe the stitching around the gel, although I have been pretty hard on it
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia Gel, Ritchey Vector something
Bike Setup:
Kona hardtail
Bottom Line:
This saddle has been awesome. I never am uncomfortable, have any numbness, or even think about my saddle for that matter. That's the way it's supposed to be. I can't say that about my Flite Gel on my road bike yet, as it is still in the "break-in" stage. The rails give just enough to take the edge off and the gel does what it is supposed to do.:) Exit and re-entry on this saddle is easy once you get the angle right, but that isn't too hard if you actually THINK when you mount it. I am a bit surprised at some of the other reviewer's comments. Maybe this saddle just doesn't fit their rear. Anyways, I love this saddle. It handles the 2-3 hr wet rooty, rocky stuff I like to ride. After 2 years of hard riding I have nothing but good things to say about this saddle. It still looks good, even covered in mud and I never even think about it on the trail. That is what a saddle should do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a Cross Country Rider
from Marquette, MI, USA Date Reviewed: February 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Good looks, Comfortable
Weaknesses:
Stitches wore out rather prematurely, bars bent when hit hard, the plastic peice on the bottom of the nose ripped through all of my pants.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia Flite Gel, and other less expensive saddles
Bike Setup:
Trek 8000 frame with xt/xtr components, thomson stem and post
Bottom Line:
Cool looking seat but wore quickly and ripped my shorts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim tidball
a Cross Country Rider
from Medford Oregon Date Reviewed: January 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Wagner Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bike Outfitters
Strengths:
Gel insert, stylish design, long, narrow profile, comfort.
Hard to find a better saddle at a price of $40.00! I tried it out for the first time on a 1 hour and 45 minute ride, no problem, I could still walk the next day. Everyone seems to complain about uncomfortable saddles, but let's face it, after 2+ hours of riding time...there is no such thing as a comfortable saddle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from CT Date Reviewed: January 6, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Stock w/ Trek 6700
Strengths:
very comfortable
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager FS + 10
Bike Setup:
Srock Trek 6700
Bottom Line:
Very comfortable saddle that makes good transitions from sitting to standing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marcel López - Alfonso
a Weekend Warrior
from Puerto Rico Date Reviewed: December 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
I'll ride anywhere...
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
A friend of mine sold it to me...
Strengths:
Very comfortable....good price, light, looks cool
Weaknesses:
???
Bottom Line:
It is a very good saddle. I respect everyones opinion here but I dont know why some of you say is a bad saddle...maybe you have a big rear and the saddle is to small for you or viceversa...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
AK
a Cross Country Rider
from Folsom, CA Date Reviewed: November 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Missouri Bar
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$45.00
Purchased At:
City Bicycle Works
Strengths:
Comfort, construction, wider than most saddles so you have a better platform to sit on
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Stock seat on Rocky MTN Element Race, Terry Fly
Bike Setup:
2001 Rocky MTN Element Race w/ stock set-up
Bottom Line:
I was looking for a replacement saddle on my new Rocky MTN as the stock one did not fit me well. A friend had the old Bontrager FS+10 race on his bike, and after trying it, I knew the saddle design was exactly what the doctor ordered. Since the FS+10 isn't available anymore, I took a chance on the new version, the Bontrager FS2000. Man o' man, what a difference. Being the saddle is much more wider/thicker across the middle and rear of the seat than most saddles, it supports you SO much better. I could ride all day on this thing + it looks very cool. The slight downward bend in the nose makes for an easy transition in and out of the saddle. Now, the only weakness in my Rocky has been removed. I highly recommend this saddle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff Mills
a Cross Country Rider
from unionville, ct Date Reviewed: October 9, 2001
Favorite Trail:
the one i just made
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
cutting edge bike
Strengths:
it looks good
Weaknesses:
it hurts your ass after a long ride
Similar Products Used:
gary Fisher somthing
Bike Setup:
2001 trek 8000
Bottom Line:
It hurts your ass
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Weekend Warrior
from Northeast, US Date Reviewed: October 2, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Tyler Mill, CT
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
JensonUSA.com
Strengths:
The gel is nice. The seat fit my sit bones nicely, It *was* a nice seat...very comfortable.
Weaknesses:
After about 20 rides one of the seat rails bent very badly. The seat is shot now.
Similar Products Used:
SDG Comp
Bike Setup:
Kona Cinder Cone...do you really care about the rest?
Bottom Line:
I really liked this seat, and at $30 from Jenson it was a great buy. The seat supported me well, but gave out on me today. I don't remember landing hard on it today. I don't ride super technical trails, so I expected more from this seat. If I constantly landed on the seat hard I wouldn't have expected much from such a cheap seat. It's too bad, the leather and the gel still look brand new. If the seat lasted at least the season I would have given it a high value rating, but even for such a cheap price, having to replace it in 3 months will cost more than most of the other seats I was looking at.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
CARL
a Cross Country Rider
from ERIE, PA, USA Date Reviewed: September 4, 2001
Favorite Trail:
ART ROSCOE CC SKI TRAILS @ RED HOUSE AREA, ALLEGANY STATE PARK, N.Y.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
COMPETITIVE GEAR, ERIE, PA.
Strengths:
COMFORTABLE AFTER CORRECT SET-UP. LOOKS REALLY COOL. LEATHER
Weaknesses:
BROKEN RAIL AFTER 4,000 MILES
Similar Products Used:
TREK HOUSE BRAND, TRICO TRI-FLEX, SPECIALIZED BG
Bike Setup:
2000 TREK 8000 LX,XT, AVID BRAKES AND ROLF WHEELS, STOCK EXCEPT FOR BONTRAGER SUPER X TIRES
Bottom Line:
THE BONTI CAME WITH THE BIKE. I PUT THE TRICO ON AT FIRST BUT LATER DECIDED TO GIVE THE BONTI A TRY. I WISH I HAD LEFT IT ON FROM THE BEGINNING. GREAT SEAT, NO PAIN OR NUMBNESS, EVEN AFTER LONG RIDES. THE SEAT IS VERY NARROW, WHICH IS WHY I PUT THE TRICO ON. I DIDN'T THINK THE BONTI WOULD WORK FOR ME BECAUSE OF MY SIZE. I'M 6 FEET TALL AND WEIGH 215 LBS. THE SEAT IS EASY TO MOVE AROUND ON DURING TECHNICAL MANEUVERS. IT TOOK ME A WHILE TO GET THE PROPER ADJUSTMENT. THAT IS THE KEY TO ANY SADDLE. I BROKE A RAIL BUT IT TOOK 18 MONTHS AND 4,000 MILES. I AM PICKING UP A NEW ONE TODAY. THE 2001 MODEL HAS LESS STITCHING AND SHOULD BE MORE COMFY THAN THE 2000 MODEL. I ALSO KNOW HOW TO SET IT UP BECAUSE OF MY EXPERIENCE WITH THE FIRST ONE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a
from Ventura, CA Date Reviewed: September 2, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$50.00
Strengths:
Great comfort at an affordable price!
Bottom Line:
aBSOLUTELY A 5!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kyle
a Downhiller
from bellingham, Wa Date Reviewed: August 21, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
It covers the seattube. Basically none.
Weaknesses:
Extremely thin, hard, and easy to bend.
Bottom Line:
Please don't buy this seat. It is the most uncomfortable thing made.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Phil
a Downhiller
from Quebec Date Reviewed: August 1, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Adrenaline
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
came with bike
Strengths:
NONE!!!
Weaknesses:
After only 10 outings the supports under the seat are bent beyond repair. After trying to bend them back several times I have given up. The seat is so narrow I can't even sit on it anymore. When the seat did have its original shape, my shorts kept getting caught in the notch cut out at the rear of the seat. Anytime I would be over my back wheel on a steep, I would have to stop to untangle myself. Almost caused me to crash on some of the more technical passes. I do weight about 200 lbs and I know the seat is not designed specifically for what I do, but come on!! The damn thing bent after one ride!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized
Bike Setup:
VRX400
Bottom Line:
Stay clear of this garbage unless all you do is go for "pleasant" little road trips. Not beefy enouph for even some light XC.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Drew
a Cross Country Rider
from Stead, MB, Can Date Reviewed: July 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Olympia Cycle and Ski
Strengths:
cheap, looks cool with the embroidery, gel section and rear cut-out make for a really comfy saddle
Weaknesses:
rails bent pretty easily, heavy
Similar Products Used:
selle san marco
Bike Setup:
Cannondale F600, basically stock with some 747s
Bottom Line:
a great saddle thats a really great price and looks awesome.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Edward Baguer
a Cross Country Rider
from N. Newark Date Reviewed: July 5, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Rocky Point
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Comfortable, easy to slide of rear for descents and kevlar sides.
Weaknesses:
First one had stitches on flank of nose that were just poorly placed. Corrected on second seat.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Body Geo.
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Toccoa
Bottom Line:
My first one got a little banged up when I lost an argument with a car door. Since January, I've spent the better part of 2200 miles on my second one. I've ridden as many as 70 miles in a day without much discomfort. What there is can normally be eliminated by using a little "Body Glide" between you and your shorts. Overall, it is a great saddle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from Ocoee, FL, USA Date Reviewed: July 3, 2001
Favorite Trail:
eCenter
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
Lake Mary Cycles
Strengths:
This saddle is the best one I have had to date. It is extremely comfortable on long rides and really cuts down on any numbness. I have been very happy with the product.
Weaknesses:
I weight 220lbs and ended up bending the rails on a really rough ride, so I am on my way to Titanium seats.
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel 90
Bottom Line:
I would recomend this for anyone who wants a great saddle at a reasonable price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nick
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsburgh Date Reviewed: June 26, 2001
Favorite Trail:
South Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Pricepoint I think
Strengths:
Comfort. It doesn't scream "I have wiener numbness issues" as much as other urologist endorsed saddles.
Weaknesses:
maybe a bit heavy, but for a comfy gel saddle it is OK
Similar Products Used:
Just about every dang sddle out there, WTB, various Selle Italias, Vettas....
Bike Setup:
This is on my Diamondback WCF 6.0 hardtail. Getting the Ti-railed version or perhaps the RaceLite for my Schwinn Rocket 88 Disc
Bottom Line:
Got this for my hardtail which I also use for commuting 15 rough Pittsburgh miles to work. Took a while to get the height, angle, front to back position right. I usually have my seat level, or maybe nose down just a bit. At first this hurt my sit-bones. The Bontrager FS 2000 seems to be designed to give a bit in the middle so if you set it so it looks like the nose is pointing slightly upward, your butt bones will land in the right spot on the "ears" of the saddle. Like a previous poster said - "think sweet spot". Once I got this seat set up right for me, I love it. I have always been that guy who is annoying to ride with because there is always something causing annoying discomfort "waa waa, my seat isn't right... my cleats aren't positioned right...there isnt enough sweep in my bars and my hands hurt..." We all have a riding buddy like that, and I am him. But I like this seat - after several years of occasional numbness, sore butt bones, saddle sores, etc. I finally found my fit. The notch/groove on the back end of the saddle is probably as important as anything on a junk-saver saddle. The gel I don't know about - as long as the saddle gives a bit in the middle. But that groove on the back end makes a big difference, my schwinn-branded saddle which kind of resembles the Specialized Body Geometry Pro has that kind of groove up to about the middle, and it is pretty comfy for a stock saddle too.
As I said, this seat is on my hardtail with 1.8" semi-slick tires (pumped up to the max) which I use on trails, but mostly on a 15 mile commute through the pot-holed, abandoned rail-road bed, occasinal singletrack, post industrial suburbs of Pittsburgh. This is a ride which will beat yer butt into hamburger - yet I still have the will to do a quick 5-7 mile off road loop in the park near my house at the end of my commute, and still have the, er, um, "sensitivity" to "perform" for the wife.
5 flaming non-limp chilis for value, 5 raging chilis overall
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jojo
a
from New Jersey Date Reviewed: June 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Came with Bike
Strengths:
Cheap. Looks good.
Weaknesses:
Rails creak.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Stock Trek Fuel 90 Disc
Bottom Line:
Rails started creaking after 20 miles. Already lost one of the small screws under the saddle. Tried everything I can think of to fix it, but can't make it go away. Bike now sounds like a ticking bomb on rough terrain and seated climbs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
keoni wright
a Cross Country Rider
from Ferndale,ca,Humboldt Date Reviewed: May 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
my trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
came with bike,trek 6700
Strengths:
Firm but comforable.reading some of the other reviews,I would have to saythere are wome Candy Ass's out there.Whining Momas boys if you would.HINT:Try rideing an all leather road bike saddle from the 70's..Your ass was sore for weeks tell you fitted it to you.There is also allot to say about proper saddle angle (Tilt) and fore-aft position that could make the most expensive saddle suck.I find the FS-2000 one of the best saddles I'v used,on and off road.It's geometry is outstanding.
Weaknesses:
Candy Ass whiners who can't adjust a saddle properly,then cry to the rest of us.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Body Geo,Selle,Serfas,Ect...
Bike Setup:
Trek 6700 With lots of great Bontrater parts..
Bottom Line:
It took a couple rides to get used to this saddle.A firm saddle is always better for the long haul.I know at all times what part of my ass is on what part of the saddle,unlike the body Geo.And other I have used.Also it's a nice looking saddle at a great price..looks,comfort,price..I have not been sore yet...Even after a 40 mile xc ride.This is a rarity.But keep in mind kids!!! Tilt,& Fore-Aft is every thing in a saddle.It's taken several rides to get dialed in sometimes...Think Sweet Spot...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brett Stone
a Weekend Warrior
from Clifton Park, NY Date Reviewed: April 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Skidmore
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
The Downtube in Albany, NY
Strengths:
Comfort, Price, Strength, & Nice looking
Weaknesses:
None that I know of yet.
Similar Products Used:
Stock Trek Seat
Bike Setup:
Trek Y3 with Bontrager and XT Upgrades
Bottom Line:
For the price, I really like this seat. Bontrager has a great reputation for quality and durability. If you still have a low end stock seat, I would recommend giving this one a try.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Mt. Carmel, PA Date Reviewed: March 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Jama Bikes
Strengths:
Comfortable. Supposed to help prevent nerve damage. Well made...leather and kevlar. Not too plush or wide so it's still able to perform well on technical terrain.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Tested virtually all the Terry Liberator saddles - not as comfortable.
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude Race.
Bottom Line:
My favorite saddle so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from MS Date Reviewed: December 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Homochitto/Clear Springs
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
The Wheel House
Strengths:
Heaven for the first 10 miles.
Weaknesses:
Hell for the last 10.
Similar Products Used:
WTB SST, Vetta TT
Bike Setup:
2000 STP 200 w/GripShift, a few other doodads
Bottom Line:
This saddle feels great at the start of the day. The gel spot is perfectly placed, no numbness at all. I thought my old WTB felt good, but this doesn't feel like anything -- it just quietly disapears and does its job without any fuss. What could be better?
Well, I'll tell ya. After 15 or so miles, the seams on the back corners feel like little rows of pebbles. They're in EXACTLY the wrong place, right up on the edges of the saddle. And they're BIG and get BIGGER with every mile!
So I'm going back to the WTB. This is a good saddle, but those darn corner seams make it unsuitable for long rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard Comroe
a
from Springfield, PA USA Date Reviewed: November 29, 2000
Klein Quantum Race, Raleigh R-500 Ultegra components on both
Bottom Line:
The saddle was comfortable from the first moment I installed it! The "V" cutout on the rear aids in fitting the sit bones very well and there has been no discomfort, at all, in the 500+ miles I've put on it. Saddles, no matter how they're marketed, are highly subjective and very personal from individual to individual. What works for me might not work for you. There may be other saddles that are more comfy than the Bonty, but so far, I'm loving every mile that it carries me and can't wait for the warmer weather to really enjoy it more. I recommend this saddle without any hesitation at all and hope that you consider it among all the others that are available. I don't think you'll be disappointed!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vincent
a
from Sydney, NSW, Australia Date Reviewed: November 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Pipe Line
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$45.00
Strengths:
It looks quite nice, and after it has being broken in a little, fits well for me.
Weaknesses:
Rails seem flexible sometimes, but offers some suspension I suppose.
Bike Setup:
Zaskar, LX, 7 speed, Psylo XC
Bottom Line:
A very good product, and reasonably priced for a leather, kevlar, gel insert saddle and works well. However, saddles are personal, and should be tried out before purchased. Even bought this at rip off store Clarence St Cyclery! And still considered it reasonably priced. Looks neat, leather and kevlar bits neatly layed under shell with glue.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
serge
a Cross Country Rider
from santa cruz Date Reviewed: October 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
soquel demo forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
cambriabike.com
Strengths:
works for me. narrow enough to slide back/off of, yet wide at points to support me. Kevlar sides holdin up well.
After goin through many saddle in the last couple of years, finally found one that works for me. Not sure that the gel does much for me, except absorb dew and make crotch wet (is this a problem with most gel inserts? this is first stab at gel for me). Didn't bother with Ti rails- price difference doesn't gibe w/ me, especially for my clyde size (225lb). More cush than the Giro Fizik on my other bike. Fits be much better than older Bontrager C10(20?) came stock on the privateer (circa '96)- that thing made me numb quick.
Will give 4 chilis for now, we'll see how it holds up in the long run.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trekkie
a Cross Country Rider
from PA Date Reviewed: October 2, 2000
Favorite Trail:
LCCC orchards 4-wheeler trails
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
smooth looks, comfort
Weaknesses:
weeknesses?
Similar Products Used:
wtb
Bike Setup:
Trek 9.9
Bottom Line:
Sweet lookin' saddle worth the 5 flamin chilis. Buy it w/ chromo rails or u can spend $45 dollars more for Ti rails (15g diff??? what a rip)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Noah
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Sun and Ski Sports
Strengths:
Comfotability
Bottom Line:
I recently purchased saddle and am very pleased with it. One of the better saddles that I have had. Overall I really have not seen any downside on this flamin chilis..
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from Collegeville, PA Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
idvsports.com
Strengths:
- Comfortable - Inexpensive - Looks cool
Weaknesses:
No Kevlar on the sides
Similar Products Used:
Trek system 1 or 2 saddle
Bike Setup:
N/A
Bottom Line:
I picked up this saddle online for $30 from idvsports.com. What a steal! Of course it did take two weeks to receive it, but it was well worth the wait. You may want to try express shipping instead of standard.
This saddle is very comfortable. It's also slim which makes it easy to manuever off and on of during technical rides. I've never experienced the "sleepy-peepee" problem, but the fact that this saddle is designed to prevent it is definately a plus.
I noticed that some of the reviews mention that there is a lot of stiching on this saddle. That is definately true with the version that comes standard on most Trek bikes (I've seen them in the stores). However, the "after market" version that I purchased did not have that problem.
The saddle that I purchased, also has some fabric on the sides which is not leather, and probably not Kevlar (since it's not stated). This was a pleasant surprise since I was worried about tearing the leather cover when leaning it against something.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Patrick Doran
a Cross Country Rider
from Lewisville, Texas, USA Date Reviewed: August 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
golden gate park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
free with Trek 8000 SLR
Strengths:
NO MORE ASS PAIN! This seems to be what i remember working well with my old BMX seats, simple and ergonomic low padding comfort.
Weaknesses:
No kevlar on sides to lean bike up against stuff with, also no titanium to increase my **** size. Other than that it's smooth.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized body geometry - crap. Titec Berserker DH - not bad but....still had ass pain.
Bike Setup:
It cost me $1000, it is on a Trek Hardtail. Take a guess.
Bottom Line:
If you are spending under $50 you would be an idiot NOT to buy this. It retails for about $35, not bad. Comfortable, no big frills, no ass pain. NO ASS PAIN. That's the bottom line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Wallkill Date Reviewed: August 18, 2000
Favorite Trail:
MTA
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$44.00
Purchased At:
Bike Doc
Strengths:
Cushy
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
many
Bike Setup:
Custom
Bottom Line:
Get this seat, your arse will thank you for it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Justin
a Cross Country Rider
from somewhere, PA Date Reviewed: August 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ASAPH
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Looks good, leather is nice, split in the back is nice.
Weaknesses:
tooo HARD, hurts my arse after a 10 mile ride
Similar Products Used:
stock, made by velo and other guys???
Bike Setup:
y2k Trek 6500, stock except for nashbar clipless and Kore aheadlite stem.
Bottom Line:
This saddle is alright, i'm not happy with it cuz the rear portion is too hard, not enough padding, my frame is pretty rigid and doesn't really accept all the vibration, not that it should, but the seat isn't very comfortable to begin with, i'm not sure if i've got the advertised gel model, mine doesn't have the "ergo-nad" patch in the middle, but its the same saddle regardless i'm pretty sure. i dont know you can take this iwth a grain of salt cuz saddles are personal pref, but i'm dont like mine...its a good deal, only 30 something dollars and change at pricepoint as of now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gareth Llewellyn
a Cross Country Rider
from Manchester Date Reviewed: July 16, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Yorkshire Moors
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Looks nice, gel patch does the job, split in the back usefull for avoiding possible prostate trouble
Weaknesses:
Major weakness is that this seat causes me major soreness right at the top of the thighs. Its just to wide at the base of the nose. Have any of you testers ridden this seat over 45 miles? Needs to be cut down in width then the perfect saddle will emerge!!!
Similar Products Used:
Flite. Flite with cut-out,Bontrager FS 10, Expedia.
Bike Setup:
Klein Quantum Race,Trek 9900.
Bottom Line:
If you dont do the miles buy it. If you do liberally apply good quality grease!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hobiecat33
a Cross Country Rider
from IL Date Reviewed: July 13, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Strong CroMo rails, great price.
Weaknesses:
Worried about stitching all over the place, but it hasn't worn yet?
Similar Products Used:
Stock GT foam thing.
Bike Setup:
XT, XTR
Bottom Line:
Great seat for the money, comfortable on long rides, CroMo rails hold up under harsh conditions. Don't really notice a big diff. with the soft area, but I never had a problem with that anyway. For the money it's a great seat and I am only slightly worried about all the stitching, it hasn't been a problem and I have had it in the mud and rain constantly since it has rained constantly for the last couple months.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sonof1000goats
a Weekend Warrior
from CANADA Date Reviewed: July 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The one to your moms house
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
I don't even know it's there.
Weaknesses:
Could use a cool flame job!!
Similar Products Used:
rock hard racing saddle
Bike Setup:
Mongoose IBOC COMP
Bottom Line:
The best 60 bucks(canadian) I've ever spent. It feels so good I don't even feel it. It looks cool and keeps my "boys" in fine working condition.....SWEET BABY JESUS BUY THIS SADDLE!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Calvin
a Cross Country Rider
from Destin, FL Date Reviewed: July 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Stylish, cheap, not too heavy, comfy...
Weaknesses:
Weakness?
Similar Products Used:
Stock seat (Ouch!)
Bike Setup:
2000 model Trek 6000. Titec bars, barends, seat post, and stem. Bontrager saddle (obviously), Speedplay frog clipless pedals, Deore XT crank, etc...
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a comfortable seat for around $35 this is the one. As for the saddle sores that the other reviewer mentioned, I haven't had any problems. I did notice that my seat does no have the extra stitching along the sides like the photo shows. Maybe it is an newer model of the FS 2000? Anyway, I got it at JensonUSA and would recommend them to anyone. Good luck!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geoff Jensen
a Cross Country Rider
from Pullman, WA, USA Date Reviewed: June 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Pete's Dragon (Sun Mountain, WA)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very stylish design... looks expensive, but the cromo is not. Very comfortable. Easy to get off if nedded (backwards)
Weaknesses:
I dunno.. those reviews talking about the stitches are gettin me kinda worried..... none yet
Similar Products Used:
FS+10 RACE, FS+10, Various WTB saddles which come stock on Gary Fisher MTbikes
I love this seat. It is great for everything i use it for, that being fast cross-country/ urban assult/ joyriding/ downhill. I reccomend it highly!!! I'm not too much of a downhiller, so i dont know to reccomend it to you if you are one. The only real mountain at which i have ridden this saddle at is Sun Mountain, near Winthrop, WA. It was great for everything I did there! Great value, definately five flamin' chili dogs for this puppy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason Mitchell
a Downhiller
from Provo, Utah Date Reviewed: June 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Navajo Lake, Utah
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
That gel thingy
Weaknesses:
WAY TOO soft torsionally! This saddle feels like a wet sponge under your can! It really doesn't respond quickly to a little body english since it gives SO much. Also, the rails don't allow me to slide the saddle as far back as I'd like.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized penile helper, a few others
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain Element Race, Manitou X-Vert, Hayes Discs, Azonic World Force Riser...
Bottom Line:
This saddle is LAME! It's only redeeming quality is that the Cro-Mo verison is cheap at $35. Other than that, steer clear, spend a bit more and get a better saddle... period! By the way, Jensonusa.com really gave me the run-around getting this saddle that I'm just going to return to them. I would'nt recommend them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Raf
a Cross Country Rider
from Singapore Date Reviewed: June 1, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Bukit Timah
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Design Comfort Safety
Weaknesses:
Not so far
Similar Products Used:
Velo Avocet
Bike Setup:
Sintesi, XTR, Mavic
Bottom Line:
This is a good saddle for those who are having problems with smaller saddles. I used to have problems in the groin area using slightly larger saddles like Velo. Feel OK when doing cross country/long distance ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Antioch, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 23, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ridge Tr.
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Low cost (for Cr-Mo version), suspension seems to work, easy to slide off the back, good prostate relief, the right amount of padding.
Weaknesses:
Stitching, weight, can't slide it rearward as far as I'd like.
Similar Products Used:
WTB SST, SST-X, Selle Italia Turbo, Turbomatic, Flite.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Killer V-HT with Hydrapost shock seatpost
Bottom Line:
I posted a review some time ago somewhat raving about this saddle. I even went out and bought 2 more for my road bikes. Then a bad thing happened. I started getting saddle sores. Painful ones running along a line paralleling the rear stitching. I attributed them to the stitching/seam which runs back there. I mentioned before that the stitching was no good because of durability, but didn't think it would cause saddle sores. Too bad. I may try it again on my mountain bike after the problems go away, but won't use it on the road bike. Keith, if your listening, get rid of the seams at the rear of the saddle!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rodney
a
from Berkeley, CA Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
comfort, price
Weaknesses:
weight, stitching, no kevlar
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia XO, SDG Ventura Comp
Bike Setup:
Giant XTC SE-1, raceface next lps, low riser, stem, seatpost, and rings.
Bottom Line:
Great saddle for the price, chromo version. The comfort level is incredible, the gel really helps. Much better than the non-gelled saddles I've used. It is a bit heavy though. If you're a weight weenie just spend the extra money and get a flite gel. But you definitely won't go wrong with this saddle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan Woelber
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton Alberta Canada Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Jumpingpound, Kananaskis
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very comfy, easy to slide of the back, quality construction, a real looker.
Weaknesses:
Weight. No Kevlar!!!!!???? Maybe Bontrager should throw in a titanium kickstand so I don't damage the seat every time I have to lean the bike against something.
Similar Products Used:
Marin (lousy), Selle San Marco, Avocet
Bike Setup:
Marin Eldridge Grade, Rock Shox Judy XC, USE shock post mated to FS 2000 (my ass has never been happier)
Bottom Line:
Noticed a huge comfort improvement right on the first ride. Great bang for the buck.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marjan
a Cross Country Rider
from Maribor, Slovenia Date Reviewed: May 7, 2000
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
- comfortable - good ergonomy (for my butt?!?) - cool design
Weaknesses:
- very heavy (370g) - a lot of stitches (I can feel what's next)
Seat came with my bike. After 100km of off/on-road riding I find it pretty confortable. It compresses small holes very well.
Although one could say on the first sight it was made with quality in mind there are certain indicators on the inner side of the seat that it's so great. I was pretty shocked when I realized it weights 370 grams.
If I could choose seat on my new bike I would definitely prefer Selle Italia Flite Gel or similar (280g, even more gel) although it costs more. But since I already have a decent seat I won't upgrade (change) it just to benefit 100g, ...
Since I had a chance to try few lower end seats without gel lately (for example, Marin) I can say that the difference in comfort is soo big that it made me think my seat is just great. My butt was moving all over the Marin and after one hour of riding I didn't know what position to take to avoid annoying pain in the ass.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SCOTT CAMPBELL
a Cross Country Rider
from MIRAMICHI N.B. CANADA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2000
Favorite Trail:
ARCHERS ALLEY
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
SUPER COMFY, NO PRESSURE POINTS
Weaknesses:
STITCHES?!?, THEY SHOULD BE KEVLAR, AND WHY NO KEVLAR CORNERS? OTHERWISE SWEET.
Similar Products Used:
CODA,TITEC BERSERKR TI, NO NAMES.
Bike Setup:
2000 NORCO XCS1 (THIS BIKE KICKS ASS!! CHEAPER IN THE USA) Z2 ATOM80, XT,VANILLA FLOAT, MONKEYLIGHT ETC.
Bottom Line:
AWESOME SEAT WHERE'S THE @$%$*&'N KEVLAR!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mOOse
a Weekend Warrior
from New Albany, IN US-of-A Date Reviewed: April 4, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Otter Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Very comfy! I like the little gel insert and the Y cut on the back. Weight isn't too bad.
Weaknesses:
Not sure yet about the stitching - there's an awful lot of it.
This saddle is NICE. I really like the way it sits, and it doesn't leave silver-dollar sized bruises the way the standard Trek saddle did. Like I said, I'm not sure about the stitching, but for the way it feels it was a good investment! I only wish I could've gotten the leather/ti version as opposed to the vinyl/cromoly. I'll ride this one out and see how it holds up, but for now, I say good job KB - you're getting better at this saddle thing!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Evan
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunnyvale Date Reviewed: March 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Saratoga Gap
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
looks good, comfortable, gotta love the gel, it keeps things working the way god intended after a ride :)
Weaknesses:
stiching
Similar Products Used:
fs+10 ti flite
Bike Setup:
upgraded '99 trek 7000
Bottom Line:
a great saddle, my old one took a beating and was getting worn out and uncomfortable. it feels so good, god bless the gel! on my old saddle after rides things down south felt a little numb, but with this saddle everything is nice and happy. a great saddle, five chilis and three cheers for KB!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Trent
a Weekend Warrior
from Utah Date Reviewed: March 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Moab
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Very comfy! The gel patch in the center of the seat really makes a difference! My old Flite was wearing out, and after seeing the FS 2000 in a bike mag, I bought one. It's a lot heavier, but I'll take the comfort over the light weight anyday. I expressed concern to the bike shop over the abundant stitching, and they said if I have any problems I can return the seat. Excellent!
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Flite titanium. Very good seat, but I needed something softer.
Bike Setup:
Supergo frame, old XT, Indy XC, some Performance Topo parts.
Bottom Line:
Heavier than the Flite I was using, but more fomfortable. I did a 35 miler on my first ride with it and even then it was very comfy. After I break it in I expect it to get even better. I really like the padding on the nose, and IMHO, it's the best looking seat out there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ruben Hinojosa
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio Texas Date Reviewed: January 12, 2000
Trek 6000 zx, Shimano, Rock Shox, Panaracer Fires, Tioga, Sun, and of course the Bontrager FS2000 gel seat.
Bottom Line:
A race looking, full leather, gel inserted, titanium railed seat for under 50 bucks? Well maybe I got a hell of a deal but the bottom line is you cant beat the quality for the price.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Antioch, CA Date Reviewed: December 22, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Ridge Tr.
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
Comfortable, easy to slide off back.
Weaknesses:
Too much stitching. I'm afraid this might affect the long term durability of the saddle when some of this stitching wears and comes undone.Also, the rails on this saddle don't appear to allow a more rearward installation. Depending on your seatpost and how you like the fore/aft position of your saddle, this could be a problem.
Similar Products Used:
Various other saddles.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Killer-V HT with Hydrapost shock seatpost. I just bought another of these saddles for my road bike, I liked it so much.
Bottom Line:
Great, comfortable saddle. The cr-mo railed version is pretty cheap.
Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter
a Cross-Country Rider
from East Coast Date Reviewed: October 29, 1999
Favorite Trail:
Wissakickon
Duration Product Used:
less than 1 month
Strengths:
comfy supportive manueverable looks cool quality looks high
Weaknesses:
weight?
Bike Setup:
Alu hardtail
Bottom Line:
Highly recommended for trail bikes. The best I've tried (though these are early impressions).Weight may be high for racers. For them, I'd recommend the Bontrager Selle San Marco.
Overall Rating:
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