Submitted by
HK91
a Weekend Warrior
from ohio Date Reviewed: November 5, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Price Point
Strengths:
None - marketing maybe
Weaknesses:
Construction and comfort
Similar Products Used:
Specialized other products from WTB (none of them worked for me)
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel EX 9.8
Bottom Line:
This product was horrible - flip one over and you can see the lack of detail and attention to quality. I ordered three saddles online that were WTB and none of them worked out - hard and uncomfortable - do not waste your time or money buying these products. I have no idea why these saddles would be rated as highly as I have viewed unless it is employees from the company writing the reviews. If you are looking for a quality saddle that has paid attention to construction and comfort I would suggest Fizik - do not keep buying the crap from China and Tawain or WTB.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
92gli
a Weekend Warrior
from west chester pa Date Reviewed: August 3, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
performance
Bottom Line:
Bought in a rush because I bent my long-used specialized rival 130 and needed to buy a seat on the way to a ride. Returned it on my way home from that ride. The edges at the rear dig into your butt and the seat only has one usuable position. Made me realize how great my specialized rival was.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mrben0101
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego, CA Date Reviewed: July 23, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Dixon Lake
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$70.00
Purchased At:
Bike Bing
Weaknesses:
This saddle makes my nuts go numb after about 5 mies.
Bike Setup:
Trex EX9
Bottom Line:
I have several friends that have or had this saddle and has had the same problems for all of us. I wouldn't recommend this product to my worst enemy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jgw1981
a Weekend Warrior
from Walled Lake, MI, USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Island Lake, Maybury
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
Very comfy, and light. This saddle seems to be the perfect shape. Plus got an excellent deal from Jenson for it :-)
Weaknesses:
None that I could tell
Similar Products Used:
Specialized BG, Selle Italia, WTB Speed, and Pure V.
Bike Setup:
Fisher Paragon 29'r, Thompson Post, X9/ LX /X7 drive train, juicy 3 brakes, White Bros Magic fork.
Bottom Line:
Great saddle, I wanted to buy this saddle way before I found and OE deal on Jenson. This saddle is usually about $60.00 at my LBS. It treats my back side better than any other I have tried.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
grandegrande
a Cross Country Rider
from LA, CA Date Reviewed: June 3, 2009
Favorite Trail:
dirt
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$96.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Super light. Looks good. Seems to be high quality.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Pure saddle
Bike Setup:
Mojo w/ XT build
Blur LT
Bottom Line:
I was looking to reduce the weight on my bike. I figured the saddle was one of my cheapest options. I reduced the weight by 0.69 lbs by switching from a Brooks B-17 to the Rocket V SLT. I was a little worried that this saddle would not be comfortable, but after about 50 miles in the saddle, no pain whatsoever. Plus it's much narrower, so it's a little easier to get behind the saddle on descents.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fcaw11
a Weekend Warrior
from SGV, CA Date Reviewed: April 20, 2009
Favorite Trail:
El Prieto
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Comfortable for my 150lbs. frame. Leather, Durable, weight. Narrow enough to slide behind saddle.
Weaknesses:
Corners difficult to clean, cloth holds dirt.
Similar Products Used:
Vetta GEL, Bontrager FS +10, WTB Pure V, WTB Laser V SLT
Bike Setup:
Trek carbon Y, mountain mix, Fox F80, Fox Float RC
Bottom Line:
Out of all the WTB saddles I've tried, this is the most comfortable. Great saddle for smaller riders.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Deacon Blues
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, TX, USA Date Reviewed: February 9, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Oak CLiff Nature Preserve
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Second hand
Strengths:
comfy as heck
Weaknesses:
Bent rails, like everyone else
Similar Products Used:
nothing comes close in comfort or crappiness of build
Bike Setup:
Rigid SS 29er Marin Pine Mountain
Bottom Line:
Seat was great until I took a drop too fast and too steep. I endo'd and somehow bent the heck out of the rails. WTB is certainly not one of those companies that will take any product back for any reason.
I'll probably buy another brand because of the quality issue since this seems to be prevalent but my chode may never forgive me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
yee0890
a Weekend Warrior
from Roswell, GA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2009
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
This is a review for Rocket V Pro SE saddle.
I bought a second-hand saddle cheap and had no problem until the rails bent when the bike fell (not crashed). I was very disappointed at how easily those metals crushed, because the saddle was very comfortable and sat right on my bones.
Weaknesses:
Rails! I do not weigh more than 130 lbs and it bent when I fell.
Bottom Line:
Great saddle as long as you don't mess with the rails.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
willem3
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR Date Reviewed: July 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
North Fork
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
EBAY
Strengths:
Strong, comfortable, light, great quality
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Other WTB Seats, Selle Italia
Bike Setup:
Ventana's with all the best parts, I have the Titanium Version of this seat on both my bikes
Bottom Line:
Awesome! Although seats are a personal choice depending on riding style, body type, etc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
No-air Bud
a Cross Country Rider
from Portage, IN Date Reviewed: July 5, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Ft. Custer, MI.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
local bike shop
Strengths:
Good fit for a smaller rider, I'm 5'5" & 130#. Shorter seat platform for better movement during the ride. I did not have to run the seat all the way to the front of the rails for good pedal position for me.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Sella Italia Flite
Bike Setup:
Titus Racer X, 3" of travel for XC riding. Fox F-80/Fox R-L
Bottom Line:
WTB Rocket V SLT Saddle:
I had been riding on a Sella Italia Flite for almost 5 seasons. The side covers and nose had a few tears starting in them so I decided it was time for a change. I had heard good things about the WTB seats. Mine is on my full suspension 2003 Titus Racer X. I had gotten comfortable on the old seat, but longer climbs were beginning to hurt a bit since you spend more time on the nose and there was not a great deal of padding on the Sella. The day I put the WTB on I noticed the shorter length and seemingly more narrow width. I liked both differences but had to do a few short around the track type adjustments to get my feet over the pedals a bit better and moved the seat more to the center of the rails. Being a smaller rider I usually just jam the seat pretty much forward and hope for the best. Even having a shorter length I did not have to put the rails all the way up so I got to enjoy the Ti rails to their potential. After a few full laps around our local 10 mile trail I noticed that I did not notice I was on a new saddle. THAT is a great compliment to this WTB seat. On vacation I put in nearly a 4 hour day over some nasty rocky, rooty downs and ½ mile switch back climbs. The best thing was I had no hot spots, tender bits or any annoying aspects at all. The cush was nice, the V channel seemed to fit and my sit bones did not cry out in pain. I really liked the WTB and may have to get one for my road ride. It had almost the same effect of putting on a new pair of running shoes, nice fit for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt
a Cross Country Rider
from fairfax Date Reviewed: June 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
wakefield
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
performance bike
Strengths:
looks good
Weaknesses:
Rails bend easy, Wale Tail design blows
Similar Products Used:
lots
Bike Setup:
tricked out Gary Fisher with heavy duty parts
Bottom Line:
The saddle crumpled in 6 days. Rails bent to hell, and it was never comfortable anyway. If you ride up hills in spandex with your seat real high and clip into your pedals, then buy it. If you jump your bike at all or ride street even a little bit, or even think you might land on the seat after riding off a curb, then don't buy it. I don't know about you, but I'm tired of buying expensive light weight junky crap like this that breaks right away and has to be replaced. I swear to god, spandex has ruined mountain biking.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
chris
a Weekend Warrior
from modesto Date Reviewed: April 2, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
pricepoint
Strengths:
surprisingly comfortable and light
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
06 heckler
Bottom Line:
This is a great seat!! I thought it would be uncomfortable when I first received it, but after one ride I knew that this was the best seat I have ever owned.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nathan F.
a Weekend Warrior
from San Antonio, TEXAS USA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere that has dirt!
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$48.00
Purchased At:
eBay.com
Strengths:
Comfort, position and weight. The Rocket V Progel with the Ti rails rocks and keeps it's shape and my butt ache free -- so far!
Weaknesses:
Too early to tell.
Similar Products Used:
What haven't I tried.... :)
Bike Setup:
1999 Litespeed Tsali-XT Group,Titec 118 Ti Handlebar,Frogs,Judy SID,KING Ti bottle cage,Salsa Brake Brace&Syncros Ti post. WT approx. 23 pounds ;)
Bottom Line:
What a saddle, after many years with a Fizik, which is a really good racing saddle. It was time for a change and with all the talk about the WTB Rocket V, I figure I would try one. So after searching the websites, i placed a bid on eBay for a WTB Rocket V Progel with Ti rails. THe indicator marks on the rails was a great help on making sure I installed my saddle's position almost the same as my old Fizik. Well I took off on a 2 hr ride and I can say it has lived up to the raves. The seat was cushy, plenty of nose to help on balance. The cut & shape of the rear of the saddle was differnt from my past saddles, but not so different that I had any issues with it. SO far I have not negitive remarks and I doubt I will have any for many years to come. I would recommend any one to go try a Rocket V, your butt will thank you! ;)
See you on the trails!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russell
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise,Idaho Date Reviewed: August 18, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Eastside
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
Ebay!
Strengths:
Lightweight, Comfortable on climbs
Weaknesses:
Not as comfortable when you are just on a flat. (Maybe this is because the raised section in the back?)
This is for the Team version. It felt hard and uncomfortable at first but once I rode for about 10 miles on it it, it softened up and was more comfortable. It's a bit expensive for what it is, but I guess thats how everything is. When you first sit on it, it doesn't feel that great, but once you have ridden a ways on it you start to appreciate how the shape of it makes it comfortable when riding, especially on climbs. I bought it because I bent the rails on my old saddle. I hope the rails hold out on this one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Connor Cole
a Weekend Warrior
from Bound Brook, NJ Date Reviewed: August 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Chimney Rock
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Garden State Bike Shop
Strengths:
This seat looks pretty cool, and is really tough.
Weaknesses:
The front starts to get torn from use after the first year or so. UNCOMFY.
Bike Setup:
serfas kevlar
Bottom Line:
This seat came stock with my bike, it looks really cool, its reasonably light, but very uncomfy if you go out riding all day be prepared to come home with a sore butt.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Maryland Date Reviewed: July 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Avalon
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
Performance Bike
Strengths:
Light, well made, great shape. Kevlar sides. WTB Warrenty and replacement policy
Weaknesses:
Can't take that much abuse
Similar Products Used:
Specialized body geometry
Bike Setup:
Prpphet 600 set up for aggresive trail riding
Bottom Line:
This saddle is candy for my ass. This is by far the best saddle I have ever used. It fits my sit bone perfectly. I am a heavy rider so I was a little uneasy about how narrow it is but the shape of this is great. After about two months I went of a jump and landed wrong and my ass hit the seat. This completely bent the seat rails. WTB has a 2 month unconditional guarrantee on their seats, so I emailed them and they promptly responed back and told me to ship them the saddle and they would replace the rails for no charge. I got the saddle back in two weeks and they upgraded the rails to Ti. This is the progel model with ni-cromo rails. WTB charges alot for their seats but since they stand behind them so much I will give it 5 flamers on value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GlowBoy
a Cross Country Rider
from Portland OR Date Reviewed: April 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Waldo Lake
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Shape fits me better than any other saddle I've tried. Team model is quite light (210g). Race and Team models both have weatherproof synthetic covers. Team model is seamless on top to minimize chafing and nerve damage. Other Rocket models come in leather if you're into leather. Wide variety of Rocket models to select the right firmness, weight and cover.
Weaknesses:
Some models are expensive, a problem when you have multiple bikes. Race model is too soft for me, and also a bit heavy (320g). Race model has stitching along the edge of the V cutout: this not only causes chafing, but according to recent studies may also cause nerve damage that can lead to numbness and ED problems. Attention WTB: it would be wise to phase out this stitching on all your saddles NOW before you get sued by someone whose pee-pee stops working.
Similar Products Used:
WTB Speed V (wrong shape), Forte Classic (too soft after a couple months), Profile O2 (too hard), Terry Fly Ti (just not quite right), SI Gel Lite Max Flow (expensive, too hard once you bottom out through the gel), Specialized Telluride '03 (loved it but it wore out, and the redesigned post-'03 models are too soft).
I've tried an awful lot of saddles, and the WTB Rocket V series seem to have a shape that fits my butt the best. I'm Goldilocks though -- many are too hard, many are too soft, only a few are just right. Too hard is bad because I like to do long rides without being in pain. Too soft is bad because if your sit bones sink in too far you start putting pressure on various other parts that shouldn't have pressure on them. Never had problems because of pressure on the perineal area, but my "boys" do not like to be squished. Worse, a saddle that seems OK at first can soften after a few hundred miles and start putting the squeeze on my boys, making it even harder to get it just right.
In the past I've raved about the Rocket V Race, but after using it for a while I've concluded it's still too soft for me. The Rocket V Team seems to be working better (and 100g lighter), though it's still pretty firm and quite a bit more expensive. I can't give it a 5 because I have yet to find the perfect saddle. But I'll give it a 4 because it's the best I've found yet.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ramilcp
a Weekend Warrior
from Whittier, CA Date Reviewed: February 27, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Then Supergo (R.I.P.)
Strengths:
Lightweight, great cushioning, durable. Drop nose prevents the shorts from snagging.
Weaknesses:
Decals peel off too easily. Nose not as comfortable as the middle or back when climbing.
Similar Products Used:
Serfas Dual Density, WTB Speed V, WTB Pure V, Selle Italia Flite, Selle Italia Octavia
Bike Setup:
IRO Mia! rigid single speed, Iron Horse geared hardtail.
Bottom Line:
Best saddle I've had so far. It's light and comfortable even for a Clyde like me. No pain on the sit bones even after long rides. The kevlar sides makes it easy to slide off the back on descents and prevents tearing when I crash.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam Henry
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochester Hills, MI USA Date Reviewed: February 10, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$63.00
Purchased At:
Full Cycles Bike Shop, OR online
Strengths:
Outstanding comfort for long, four hour, XC rides. No noticable pressure points! Not icy slippery like some other high end seats.
Weaknesses:
Not seen yet though time will tell show whether this saddle is durable over a longer period of time.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia Flite Ti, Specialized (from S works).
Bike Setup:
One Specialized Stumpjumper hardtail currently w/XTR, Reba Team, v brake. One Cinelli Freedom Rider with Avid Carbon Juicy disc and SRAM gear system.
Bottom Line:
Best saddle in 40 years of riding. I needed this during my competitive youth. I'd likely have more kids. Outstanding product. Bought another for my other bike. Considering another for a third bike with proven durability. The Lazy Boy of saddles. Incredible value at $63.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Corey Cassell
a Cross Country Rider
from Enumclaw Date Reviewed: January 19, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Black Diamond
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
High quality, good looks and a durable cover.
Weaknesses:
Uncomfortable as hell for me. Severe pain!
Similar Products Used:
WTB Pro V Gel
Bike Setup:
Custom Built Trance1, XT throughout, Mavic 717, Thomson Post.
Bottom Line:
I wish I could say I love this seat, because it's a damn good looking seat and it's very light. I just can't live with the way it hits my rump. It hits me right between the bones of my butt and by the time I climbed my first 1000 feet on the bike, I needed to ride side saddle because it hurt so badly. The padding is extremely firm. I've moved to the WTB Pro V Gel to get some better padding and a little different contact point. If you're a racer looking for a light seat, this is the one. I just hope you can mount the thing and give it a good fitting before you fork over the cash. I'll be posting this barely used seat on Ebay soon. Anyone in the market for one? I can't give this seat a poor rating because it's a good seat. It just didn't work for me. I can't give it a top rating thoug either because the padding in my opinion is way too hard. My mistake for not trying it out before I bought it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jesse VOZA
a Racer
from St-Martin, Caribbean Date Reviewed: January 2, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine in Moab
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
TRISPORT St-Maarten
Strengths:
+ Light + Strong + Look + Different model + Comfort
Weaknesses:
- None
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, Gobi, Selle Italia
Bike Setup:
Stock YETIs
Bottom Line:
I tried this saddle at Interbike and it is right away the best saddle out there for MTB (maybe a bit wide for road). I think the trick is the curse in the middle of the saddle. You feel like sitting on a horse. Your legs can move left and right easily. The comfort comes from the shape. On Bontragers, it comes from the padding. Buy it !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Cross Country Rider
from Orange County, CA, USA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Strengths:
Durable, Light, and MOST IMPORTANT COMFORTABLE! This is for the Rocket stealth, since it doesn't have its on catagory
Weaknesses:
I really dont like the white part of the seat but thats all they make the stealth version in.
Similar Products Used:
other Rocket seats, Bontrager, Selle Italia
Bike Setup:
Hard tail, so you feel the bumps
Bottom Line:
This is a good seat I recommend this to anyone wanting a light seat that is comfortable. A thousand times better than the Selle Italia seat I had. Worth the money on those long rides.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jack Jiang
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand Date Reviewed: October 25, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with my Mt Vision
Strengths:
Good design, aethetically pleasing, simply comfy
Weaknesses:
the bottom of the saddle, where there is that little bit of platic cover towards the nose of it, that bit keeps breaking.
Similar Products Used:
Jamis saddles, cheap Avanti, Selle SLR
Bike Setup:
2005 Marin Mt Vision, mostly stock
Bottom Line:
this is a very good saddle, loved it while it lasted. this is my 3rd Rocket-V, the one on my road bike seems fine, but the two i had for my XC bike kept breaking, and ones it breaks there was a dip in the saddle, and i was sitting on plastic from then. im waiting on my warrenty for another one at the moment, im willing to give it another try.
3 for value because if you buy the Stealth seperate, it ll cost $200, (maybe its just here in NZ) 4 for overall because it was just so damn comfortable!!!! though it kept on breaking. Well as long as it breaks within a year i can get another warrenty on my new one >.<
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
shiny_car
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: October 12, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
ebay + shipping
Strengths:
very comfy for my bott; Stealth version very light
Weaknesses:
Stealth version relatively expensive but such is what you pay for lightweight
my Giant HT came standard with the 'Race' version of this seat which I find very comfortable and good quality; as such, I purchased the lighter 'Stealth' version for the build-up of my other HT; really light for a MTB seat, retains the comfort and nicer trim (leather); if this width/design seat suits your bum then I highly recommend it; not sure it's worth the added expense for the lightweight Stealth version unless you're a weight-weenie or can buy it cheaply
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Cross Country Rider
from Huntington Beach, CA, USA Date Reviewed: August 2, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Chode saver. This review is for the 2005 WTB Rocket V Stealth. I put it here because there's no separate listing.
Weaknesses:
none so far
Similar Products Used:
$10 generic seat, terry dragonfly
Bike Setup:
custom access, full xt, right hand front break b/c it's how my moto is set up
Bottom Line:
I thought that chode pain was part of biking until I swapped to this seat. Now the pressure is on my sitbones.
The dragonfly was way to narrow even though it had a cutaway down the middle. The Rocket's cutaway is wide enough and correctly spaced that even for someone with a ghetto booty it rides smoothly.
I was debating between getting a Koobi Au Enduro and this; however, considering that this is lighter (at 210 grams) and cheaper (if you can find an online deal) I was sold.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Scotia, NY Date Reviewed: July 30, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Strengths:
Very comfortable, light.
Weaknesses:
A little pricey (isn't everything?)
Similar Products Used:
Stock BG from Specialized, and a Bonty Race Lite (both horrible)
Bike Setup:
04 Specialized Epic Marathon with SRAM XO rear and grip, Thomson stem, EC70 flat, Shimano PD-M959 pedals
Bottom Line:
This review is for an 05 Rocket V Stealth..... This is hands down the most comfortable seat I have ever ridden. I have only used it for a short time but have absolutely no soreness, pressure points, or discomfort of any kind. If this is the general size/shape saddle you use give it a shot, it's just as light or lighter that a lot of other 'racing' saddles but waaaaay more comfortable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christopher
a
from Rapid City, SD USA Date Reviewed: July 16, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Came stock on bike
Strengths:
Nice materials used. Great looks.
Weaknesses:
Pressure point on nose of seat. Creak noises, rubs against rails.
Bike Setup:
Cross country, mountain, wooded trails, etc...
Bottom Line:
The seat is nicely made except for the rubbing against the rails which causes it to creak. No big deal though and I fixed it anyway. The only thing is that the front of the seat is something I really begin to notice pressing against - you know, after about 40 minutes of riding. I've tried various seat angles and heights and nothing corrects this problem. Oh well maybe it's just me cause other seats seam to do the same dang thing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: May 4, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$67.00
Purchased At:
on-line
Strengths:
Comfortable, light
Weaknesses:
Poor quality control, and I think it's fugly.
Similar Products Used:
Flite Transalp, Specialized Rival
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is that is is comfortable, period. My precious jewels wern't numb at the end of a 1 1/2 hour ride, and my a$$ felt good. However, I am disappointed in the quality of the construction. The saddle sits uneven, higher on one side than the other, bad molding I guess? I haven't really noticed it on the trail, but just knowing the quality control is not there makes me a bit nervous in the overall quality of the product. Also, WAY to much stitching and heavy embroidery all over the place. The seams will wear out I am sure. Also, I think it's just ugly. Bottom line, my a$$ feels fine and no numbness whatsoever. Value is good cause I got it fairly cheap. I will buy it again, but wish it was made better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve Coram
a Weekend Warrior
from Lynnwood, WA, USA Date Reviewed: April 16, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
The Rocket V is aesthetically pleasing.
Weaknesses:
Bent rails...WTB won't replace under warranty. Instead of fixing this problem, WTB's costumer service reps tried to push more of their product down my throat.
Similar Products Used:
OEM Specialized saddle.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Hard Rock Comp...replacing components as they break.
Bottom Line:
I am a very big guy (6'11", 240+lbs.). Carrying this much weight, I can quickly realize if a product is up to the durability snuff after a few rides. I don't freeride or do any drops, but the saddle rails started to bend after about 15 miles of riding. I've straightened the rails three times and each time adjusted the saddle position on the rails to try and relieve some of the leverage place on them. Well, it's not working.
If you're a light guy into cross country riding, this would be a good saddle for you. I actually liked the seating position with the whale tail for the first few miles before the rails bent.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ev
a
from Edm, ab ca Date Reviewed: April 8, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
no rubbing or pain in ur privates (lol). Comfy cheap
Weaknesses:
none
Bottom Line:
This is great for xc racing/riding. It works greeat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Racer
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: March 29, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Light, well made, good padding
Weaknesses:
Side stitching rips the skin from between the legs if you dont wear nicks!!!.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Royal Viper, Fizik Poggio,
Bike Setup:
Basso Viper, Shimano Ultegra/105
Bottom Line:
Comfortable for long rides on bumpy roads if you are wearing nicks. Not so good on the trackstand in shorts. Well padded for the sit bones. It took a little while to adjust the seat angle to optimise the comfort zone but maybe that's just me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blake Williams
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: March 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Anything fast and tough
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$85.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
light! light! light! 185 grams and still pretty comfortable. It wears into your ass for a custom fit
Weaknesses:
seems to creak on the rails, It maybe the Thomson post. The two look very trick, perform well, and save weight.
Similar Products Used:
Terry Dragonfly
Bike Setup:
Klein Pulse tricked
Bottom Line:
I read all the reviews and was worried that I was going for another light saddle. This is sweet. I rode about 300-400 miles on it doing some training milage and it was a little harsh. On the trail it was great, no prob during 40 mile race. Leather and stiching seem to be holding up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George F
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa, Canada Date Reviewed: March 1, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Sunview
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Came with bike
Strengths:
Looks good, comfy, somewhat light. Still looks and feels the same after a year. Minimal wear and tear.
Weaknesses:
This is a comfy seat but after many hours butt does get a bit sore. No biggie though.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Body Geom
Bike Setup:
Marin Novato Triple Butted 7005 Aluminum Edge Tubed Frame, Mavic Crossrides, Bontrager Comfort K Hardcase Tires, Rock Shocks Jett 2, Kore Elite XC Comp Handlebars, Kore lite 3 Stem, Avid Arch Rival V-Brakes, Avid Speed Dial SD 2.0L Brake Levers, TruVativ 5D Crank, WTB Momentum Comp ST Headset, WTB Rocket V Saddle, Sette 7 APX seat post, Shimano XT Derailleurs, Cateye Wireless 7 computer, Profile briefs bar Ends, BLT mini-Doppler Light.
Bottom Line:
This seat came with my Marin Novato bike. It looked really good so I tried it out. It was a keeper. It's a nice looking seat with a center channel for comfort. It works well overall.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
r. grenier
a Weekend Warrior
from geneva, ny, usa Date Reviewed: February 15, 2005
Favorite Trail:
anywhere i can ride
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
weaver's bike shop
Strengths:
good size, light, firm, and durable.
Weaknesses:
a little too firm if you're going to be riding a long time, my butt and lower back began to ache after riding for about an hour.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
mountainsmith, stock
Bottom Line:
great seat overall, not recommended for long rides, if you're going to be riding a long time and want extra comfort, i recommend getting a seat cover, this seat is too good to not use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Racer
from philly Date Reviewed: September 28, 2004
Favorite Trail:
got dirt
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$40.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
light, comfortable
Weaknesses:
a little wide in the back
Similar Products Used:
do not ride without a seat! ouch
Bike Setup:
this is on my lightweight xc rig
Bottom Line:
Great seat. Most comfy i've ever used. Plus, they're so light I highly recommend these to anyone looking for a new saddle. Look no further.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Grant
a Racer
from Macon, GA Date Reviewed: August 26, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Dauset
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$89.00
Strengths:
Very firm padding
Weaknesses:
Stitching everywhere. Very narrow.
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager fs2000, WTB SST.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale f2000
Bottom Line:
Loved the SST, not so much in love with the rocket. I've stuck with it until the leather is coming off, but really, this thing has been bad. I've probably logged something on the order of 2,000 miles on this saddle.
I never had saddle sores before using this saddle, and though I ride much more now than when I first started using the saddle, I've concluded that the v shaped seams somehow hit me right where the thigh meets the buttock, causing these damn sores. I just have to think that seams and embroidery that prominent are a bad idea.
Plus, the saddle construction has proven to be less than durable. Much of the thread in the seams near the back disintegrated long ago, the saddle still somehow being held together. Now the leather near the nose has torn free in a three inch strip. Uncool for a product costing near $100 retail.
I have recently started long road rides on the mtb, and despite the presence of the Love Channel, I have been startled to find after an hour or so in the seat that I am numb, nay shellshocked, in the groin. I remember some sort of sensation right about here.....
I loved the SST and for the life of me I can't figure out why WTB doesn't still offer it. You can find them all over Ebay though. I will rate it two chilis on the meter jsut because I figure you can't ride a lot without some discomfort, but I don't recommend the Rocket.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gingertooth cheesgu
a Racer
from ringwood, NJ USA Date Reviewed: August 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
palmer park, Colorado Springs
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$49.00
Purchased At:
cheesegu supplies
Strengths:
light, extremely comfortable, reflective backing.
Weaknesses:
yeah right
Similar Products Used:
the best of the best
Bike Setup:
the best of the best
Bottom Line:
is that this saddle is the best out there. I have tries them all and this is by far the best I have seen. I liked the one on my race bike so much I bought one for my road there after. They are awesome. And If I could get my hands on them cheap I will buy more. Goddamn there good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tom
a Cross Country Rider
from frisco, CO Date Reviewed: July 30, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$60.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
comfy, light, reflective, strong
Weaknesses:
reflective material on corners tears too easily
Similar Products Used:
vetta/ritchey/selle italia/fizik/club roost?
Bike Setup:
DeVinci with a seatpost
Bottom Line:
Saddles are way personal- this one happens to fit my parts better than anything else. It's surprising at first when you feel how soft the foam is, but the thing stays comfy for the day. It's pricey but the same basic shape is available in two lower priced versions. By far the best saddle I've ever used.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed
a
from San Francisco Date Reviewed: July 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Quite comfortable in terms of padding, particularly for a lightweight (< 200 grams) saddle. Contour shape fits the butt well. The "love channel" prevents numbness. Reflective material on the sides and corner of the saddle.
Weaknesses:
The love channel starts about a half-inch too far back. The comfort-zone plastic shell cutout does make the front of the saddle softer, but I think the saddle would be better with no cutout and a love channel that starts closer to the nose of the saddle.
Similar Products Used:
Terry Zero, Terry Fly Ti, Selle San Marco Aspide Arrowhead
Bike Setup:
(road bike) 2003 Jamis Quest
Bottom Line:
I've tried a bunch of saddles that have a cutaway/channel in the middle of the seat to prevent numbness: Terry Zero, Terry Fly Ti, Selle San Marco Aspide Arrowhead.
What I've been looking for is a saddle that - has a narrow profile (like the classic Selle Italia Flite) - has a cutaway that works (no numbness) - is comfortable (no saddle soreness) - is relatively light
The WTB is the best overall of the ones I've tried.
The Terry Zero prevents numbness but not soreness (it lacks sufficient padding). The Terry Fly Ti is like sitting on a pillow but it is too long and I still got numbness using it. A triathlete friend of mine said the same thing about the numbness. I think the cutaway section starts too far back. The Selle San Marco Aspide Arrowhead is similar to the Terry Zero, but it feels even harder on your rear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike J
a Weekend Warrior
from Mt. P, MI Date Reviewed: July 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Midland Forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
feels good, good padding, strong rails
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
other WTB seats, Specialized BG
Bike Setup:
04 Hardrock Pro Disk, Race Face Good&Evil grips, L.X. F.D, Black Spire XC Bashring, Planet Bike, Protege 9, WTB Rocket V
Bottom Line:
Great seat, love the feeling,replace my stock specialized BG Sport saddle, no more numbness. Rode 8 miles of seriuosly bumpy trails on a hardtail yesterday and butt feels fine. Rails are really good too, have the seat set pretty for back and haven't heard any creaking from them. This is a really strong product and highly recommended to replace stock seats.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gary
a Cross Country Rider
from arkham, ma Date Reviewed: July 15, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
comfortable, lightweight
Weaknesses:
ti rail broke
Similar Products Used:
sdg gran prix, selle flite, others
Bike Setup:
santa cruz superlight...fox rlc 100.....xtr changers. mavic 717's with hope xc hubs
Bottom Line:
very comfortable saddle but ti rail broke at under 100 miles. with all my gear i probably weigh in at 195#'s so i am not a real heavyweight. rail just snapped loudly during an easy ride on rolling terrain. i have to say customer service has been helpful. will replace ti rail for $ 25.00 plus shipping, which seems reasonable but i have serious doubts about it's durability although it seems that others have not had problems . anyway this is mtb'ng and things break but i will not trust ti rails again. a 4 for comfort 2 for value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from RI Date Reviewed: July 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$80.00
Strengths:
Very light, comfortable, looks good
Weaknesses:
Poor quality control-after only 3 rides the seat came loose on the rails and now gives off a "popping" sound on occasion.
Similar Products Used:
FiziK
Bike Setup:
SC Blur
Bottom Line:
WTB has agreed to repair the seat, but this means 2 weeks with an old saddle. Bummer. I would be more tolerant if the seat was a year old, but 3 weeks? WTF?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mainge Rover
a
from Nowhere, Noplace USA Date Reviewed: June 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
prarie path, IL
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
Spokes
Strengths:
Very comfortable and lightweight.
Weaknesses:
None yet.
Similar Products Used:
Terry Fly, Specialized Comfort Plus, stock Bontrager saddle
Bike Setup:
Trek 7000
Bottom Line:
This seat is more comfortable than my honking big Specialized saddle that was made for comfort, and it weighs about half as much. I've found that any discomfort can be solved by trying slightly different positions on the saddle. Pushing far back on the saddle allows me to sit pretty squarely on the sit bones, and sitting forward has had no bad effects.
I bought this saddle from a local bike shop, and it appears to have been taken off a Giant NRS (?), perhaps having never been used. The guy who sold it to me seems to have invented a price off the top of his head, which would have bothered me if the saddle hadn't wound up being so comfortable.
Give it a try. It seems to have accomodated a range of people.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luka
a Cross Country Rider
from Zagreb,Croatia Date Reviewed: June 25, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came with my bike
Strengths:
Everything, comfort, looks, weight....
Weaknesses:
Weaknesses?! what is that?
Similar Products Used:
Specialized BG, some scott's saddles
Bike Setup:
Focus , Black rider, full LX, MX Comp
Bottom Line:
I have been riding this saddle for almost 2 years now and don't have a single bad word to say about this saddle! It looks stailish and the comfotr is great. I would recomend this saddle to everybody! I'am planing to buy a new bike and this saddle is going to be on it for sure!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Tenafly, New Jersey, USA Date Reviewed: May 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
79.00, performancebike.com
Strengths:
Good shape for my anatomy. The curve helps keep a consitant fit when going from the hoods to the drops and sliding back on the saddle. Perfect amount of padding. Saddles are individual as everyone agrees, and this one works for me.
Weaknesses:
Doesn't look as cool as the lighter racing saddles.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia Fluid, Trans Am Gel Flow, Selle San Marco Arami Gelaround,Terry Fly, Arione, Alliante, Specialized
Bike Setup:
Moots Psychlo X, YBB. Record, Zip rims, Hugi hubs, Chris King headset, Crank Brothers eggbeaters,
Bottom Line:
Went through a lot of saddles. Satisfaction and comfort changes with level of fitness and flexibility. I have used this saddle everyday (with my bike on a fluid trainer) for over two months, as well as on the road a few times per week. An uncomfortable saddle today may be great in two months as muscles change. This saddle has enough padding without being mushy and has comfort out of proportion to its light weight. This particular shape is different than most, so if all other shapes are not making it, a try may be worth it. I'll be putting one of these saddles on my mountain bike as well. Performance is a great company to deal with, and their return policy is very consumer friendly. A saddle that will make a bike you love comfortable to ride rates the highest value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jo Blo
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: April 3, 2004
Favorite Trail:
anything on a slope
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
-Light -Comfortable -Decent to look at -Well made
Weaknesses:
-long-term durability -Narrow
Similar Products Used:
WTB SST, Selle Italia, SDG (the worst saddle on the planet), RMB in-house stuff, Specialized pro-long
Bike Setup:
2004 Blizzard with all the goodies
Bottom Line:
This is one of the most comfortable saddles on the market for me. The design is quite narrow, so larger riders and most women will likely hate it, but for me, it is the cats arse. The padding is in the right places and the overall shape of the saddle is very well thought out. Also, the entire shell flexes under the rider, acting as a bit of a shock absorber.
It is insanely light, and so I question the ultimate durability of the saddle -some of the reflective corner material is already coming off; however, the thing is really well made and all stitching and detailing is outstanding. We shall see if it lives as long as my old SST did (5 years and still kicking...). Therein lies the compromise: bloody light, but might need to be replaced in a year.
It fulfills all the design criteria for such a product: light enough to grace an XC race rig, and totally comfortable. Too bad is costs a mint.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Paul
a
from Los Alamitos, CA Date Reviewed: March 20, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Strengths:
very light, well made
Weaknesses:
not comfortable, painful to sit on
Bike Setup:
blur 2004 xt disc
Bottom Line:
I mostly bodybuild and I weigh 235 and just ride for extra cardio. The first day I got it i took it out for a 30 mile ride, the seat did not seem to give at all and felt very stiff. I'm not sure if there is any breakin period on these but something going to have to give and so far its been me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin english
a Cross Country Rider
from broken arrow,ok Date Reviewed: March 8, 2004
Favorite Trail:
turkey mtn.
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
good for bottoms and a good price
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
wtb speed v, body geometry saddles
Bike Setup:
heckler, xt group, mavic xm819
Bottom Line:
feels good, good grip when needed, good nose for climbing, good seet area for comfort and it's easy to get behind without hanging up when descending.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lars
a Cross Country Rider
from AZ Date Reviewed: February 8, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
online from BetterBikes - Boise, ID
Strengths:
This is for 2003 "Rocket V" w/ Ti rails - not sure if it's a LASER or STEALTH or just plain old Rocket V... WTB's labeling leaves MUCH to be desired. Weighs about 200g. Kevlar on rear corners. $110 retail.
VERY light! My groin is completely PAIN FREE! Completely. Can't believe it. Ahhh...
However...
Weaknesses:
The bones in my ass hurt! Better than groin though! I salivated over this saddle (based on reviews) for 8 months. I'm a bit disappointed in it. After a long ride my butt bones under each cheek hurt so bad I can not ride again for a few days because of the pain.
Similar Products Used:
Serfas, WTB SST,
Bike Setup:
C'dale F??? hardtail w/ thudbuster, Marzocci MX Pro, avid mech disc and such goodies...
Bottom Line:
To be fair I'm 5'11", 165 lbs, very lean, <10% body fat -read "no ass padding". What IS amazing about this seat is that while every other saddle I've tried (which is not a lot) has inflicted at least some grevious damage, usually significant - while with this saddle I experience no no no discomfort at all in that oh so sensitive of betwixt spots!
I received the discount of the year as closeout, but @100 retail is reiculous - so I'll dock a few of the value poos.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andy
a Cross Country Rider
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: January 28, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Seems quite good quality
Weaknesses:
Just didnt fit me properly
Similar Products Used:
Felt, Selle Italia Flite Ti
Bike Setup:
Giant VT
Bottom Line:
Ive used this seat for over 700 miles (on and off road). The quality of workmanship and materials seems very good, but unfortunately this seat just did not fit me....i was okay on rides for the 18 miles or so...after that it felt like i was sitting on concrete and there was major numbness...i tried this seat in all manner of angles and positions to alleviate this, to no avail. Switched to a Selle Italia Flite Ti and the comfort difference is remarkable, if a seat doesnt fit you, it doesnt matter what brand it is, you`ll get sore....3 chillis for the workmanship/materials.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dmitry
a Cross Country Rider
from Russia Date Reviewed: January 27, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
oem
Strengths:
looks good & comfort
Weaknesses:
it's broke!
Similar Products Used:
fizik pave
Bike Setup:
Atom XC600, XT, Hayes disc brakes
Bottom Line:
It's just broke without notice! No crash, no DH, only XC-training. Two weeks ago when I inspect my bike I was surprised by two chincks in the plastic base. Maybe it's only oem saddle problem?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blake
a Cross Country Rider
from Alameda, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$35.00
Purchased At:
bike swap
Strengths:
strong materials. bright reflectors.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
base mode WTB
Bike Setup:
Trek 8000 SLR
Bottom Line:
On the 8th day, God created the WTB Rocket Stealth for my ass. On the 9th day, I thanked God. I don't understand how guys can even think about riding with saddle not having a love channel. Sick dudes... that is all I can say.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thegood
a Cross Country Rider
from Maryland Date Reviewed: December 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any one I can get to
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Wrenchscience
Strengths:
Lightweight (rocket V stealth), comfortable
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
SDG satellite, Selle Italia max flite trans am, San Marco aspide arrowhead
Bike Setup:
2004 Truth XTR
Bottom Line:
This fits my ass perfectly, and I haven't experienced any numbness in my nether region. This saddle offers just the right amount of cushion...not squishy like a gel saddle and not rock-hard like some of the light-weight race saddles. I opted for a san marco aspide on my racing hard tail to save about 20 grams...I wish I got another rocket v stealth instead. It's a little pricey (about a $99 from most of the internet retailers), but you can get some new ones (2003 model stealths) on eBay for around $70, so I'm giving it 5 flaming turds for value.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Howard Roy
a Cross Country Rider
from Hong Kong Date Reviewed: December 3, 2003
This is the most comfortable saddle I've ever sat on, I usually ride for 4+ hours on weekday and sometimes the entire day on weekends, and this seat never gives me the numb problem that I've experienced with my previous Selle Italia seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david
a Cross Country Rider
from corvallis, oregon Date Reviewed: November 26, 2003
Favorite Trail:
northridge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
performance
Strengths:
comfort, weight, shape
Weaknesses:
cheap reflective trim
Similar Products Used:
fi'zi:k aliante, selle italia flight, coda saddles
Bike Setup:
cannondale caad5 hardtail with a fatty ultra
Bottom Line:
This saddle is amazing. It is the most flexible, soft comfortable saddle i have ever ridden. it has just enough coushin and plenty of give to allow you to ride all day. it also costs about half of what the fi'zi:k costs, and it's more comfortable and weighs about the same. The reflective material they used to put on the back sucks, it's not durable, but that has now been replaced with kevlar (i.e. no longer a problem). This is the PERFECT saddle. Unless the shape just does not contour to your end shape, you will love this seat.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PoodlyPoo
a Cross Country Rider
from Austin, TX Date Reviewed: November 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
City Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Fits my butt like a glove... no snags on nose.
Weaknesses:
Rear of the saddle is a wee bit tall... likes to grip some of my pants.
Similar Products Used:
XO, Titec
Bike Setup:
Round and round like a record.
Bottom Line:
I've never been picky about saddles so I was always riding on the stock saddles that came with whatever bike I was riding. After bending my XO saddle to the point of no return, I decided to look into a replacement. I obtained a Titec Ithys saddle and couldn't stand it for more than one ride. It felt like it was pushing me over the bars and made the bike feel too small somehow. Even with the height and tilt adjusted, it didn't feel right.
So I swapped the WTB Rocket V from one of my other, seldom-used bikes onto my main trail bike and it was instant goodness. The groove of my butt fit perfectly onto the saddle like no other saddle I've tried before. I haven't done any long rides since I started using this saddle, but it still feels much better to sit on than the others. I don't notice a difference in damping, but the fit is the main difference.
The only drawbacks are that the rear of the saddle is built up so it tends to snag my pants when I try to get back on over the saddle. Other than that, the material tends to grip extra hard at some of the shorts I wear so I can't slide back and forth as easy. I haven't had a croth-snagging accident yet like I did with the Selle XO (which resulted in a smashed face and open wound under my sniffer) so all's well there.
I'm seriously considering replacing the saddles on some of my other bikes to the same WTB. It just feels that good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
:D
a Cross Country Rider
from melb, aus Date Reviewed: August 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
$40
Similar Products Used:
selle italia trans am flite, laser v, specialized bg
Bottom Line:
i just tried it at a bike shop (on nrs model range). amazing thing, from the moment i sat on it it was the best feeling lightweight race saddle i've come across, when you're in the right position.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian
a Weekend Warrior
from Sydney, Australia Date Reviewed: July 21, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Ski Lift, Taipei, Taiwan
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came stock with Giant NRS-2
Strengths:
Comfortable.No numbness(maybe due to Love Channels).No saddle sores as sits great with my bum bones. Light weight. Narrow enough to get behind the saddle for the Downhills.
Weaknesses:
Fabric at the side looks like it is not as durable as leather.
Similar Products Used:
Stock saddle that came with specialized FSR-XC 1999 model, and a San Marco saddle that came with Giant CFM-2 1995 model.
Bike Setup:
Stock Giant NRS-2 with Kore short stem, and Continental Explorer tires.
Bottom Line:
Saddles are very personal. What fits me may not fit you. Judging by the previous reviews it appears this saddle is designed for the masses. It is the most comfortable saddle I've sat on, and I don't have any saddle sores yet. Impotence due to saddle hasn't been proved convincingly by medical community, but I'm glad it has sparked a new wave of saddle design which has made my bum's day in the saddle. I'm also happy to see the Love Channel, as maybe one day if they prove impotence can be caused by saddle, I know I'll be safe. The Saddle is narrow enough to get your bum behind during downhill. I am very happy with this saddle, however will deduct one chilli in value rating as I believe the side fabrics should be made into leather...WTB is a company that makes quality bike components, just like their VelociRaptor.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
andrew schank
a Weekend Warrior
from Richmond, CA Date Reviewed: June 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Wildcat Canyon/Tilden Parks
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Good looking comfortable seat for a mountain bike-even matches my red bike. Tested one on a Giant Bike and had the shop swap it out with the seat that came on my Santa Cruz I finally ended up buying. Most comfortable seat I've ever used. Even 2 or 3 hours of hard riding didn't bother me the first time I used it. Every time I get on the bike, The seat feels great.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
various uncomfortable seats supplied by the bike manufacturers. Why is it that they put a lousy seat on a $2000 bike?
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight "R" package
Bottom Line:
This seat is way more comforatable than any other I've used. Why exactly I don't know--certainly not the most padded. It just doesn't bother me to ride for hours on it-something about the shape of it makes it not dig into you. Thinking about trying one on my road bike as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Superior, CO Date Reviewed: May 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
anything technical
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$72.00
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
Very comfortable, light.
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Serfas lola, Bontrager, Spec BG(not good for me)
Bike Setup:
02 Enduro Pro
Bottom Line:
I loved my lola for the ease of getting off the back but it was not really comfy. The Rocket is much more comfortable with only a slight penalty getting off the back, and even saved some weight. It is comfortable sitting on the nose for climbing and relieves pressure in the right places when seated normally.
An excellent product
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
P Dill
a Weekend Warrior
from Paranaque Philippines Date Reviewed: May 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$22.00
Purchased At:
Ross Cycle
Strengths:
Design, price, love channel.
Weaknesses:
Logos on the side gets erased quite easily, seat borders (lining) is not properly aligned.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized body geometry, Velo.
Bike Setup:
hardtail, mx comp coil fork
Bottom Line:
Finally, a saddle that matches my fat ass! Feels so much better compared to my specialized body geometry (gave me a lot of saddle burns and numbness). From now on, it would be wtb's for me!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Feideaux
a Weekend Warrior
from Tasmania, Australia Date Reviewed: May 7, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Snail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$30.00
Purchased At:
Treadlies
Strengths:
Comfort, the construction, the colours, comfort, reasonably priced, reflective strips, comfort, I own it, comfort. THE LOVE CHANNEL, soft nose, comfort.
Weaknesses:
Took me me numerous saddle purchases to stumble across this one. Anyone want to buy a seat or two?
Similar Products Used:
WTB SST Kev, Selle Italia Prolink, Special Ed Body Geometry, SDG Orangy thingy and green, sparkly slim jim (ouch)
Bike Setup:
03' FSR Comp, time carbons, easton, ritchey
Bottom Line:
Everyone is built differenly. This saddle just happens to suit my body better than anything I've ever tried. I finally found a saddle that actually helps rather than handicaps my riding performance.
This saddle is very well constucted. It adequately supports the 'sit bones' in your bum, which keeps your hips nice and stable, allowing you to generate more power through to the pedals. The difference this made to my riding was like night and day on the trail, made even more noticeable when compared to the last saddle I had (slim jim - fashion accessory, although some people swear by them. See start of review). I think even the love channel helped a bit, although I don't think it translates into rushing home and giving the missus a good seeing to.
This seat literally vanishes beneath you, it's that comfy. Lots of control as well. Follow up review to come,
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Relayden
a Cross Country Rider
from PR Date Reviewed: May 7, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
here
Strengths:
Lightweight, nice looking, so far strong.
Weaknesses:
The 3R reflective stuff.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized body goe, selle italia trans am
Bike Setup:
enduro 01, thomson, easton, xt disc. 2.2 tires
Bottom Line:
The best xc saddle, period. light, strong, not a pain in the butt the most comfortable saddle I have rode, nice shape. Good quality materials. It's a xc saddle but I use it for aggressive\freeride and it works flawlessly. I'think the laser v is more comfortable, but could't pass this deal. Highly reccomend wtb products.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Twin Cities, MN Date Reviewed: April 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Lebanon Hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$55.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
This is an extremely confortable saddle to sit on. It's light, causes NO numbness anywhere, and the cover doesn't seem to be slippery or sticky. It's just right!!
Weaknesses:
Haven't found any structural weaknesses yet, but the logos wear off easily on the sides of the nose.
Similar Products Used:
Fizik Plateau, WTB Rocket V race, Selle Italia Pro Link Gel, and some pos comfort saddle.
Bike Setup:
Stock 2003 Jamis Dakar XLT 2.0 with this saddle.
Bottom Line:
I liked the Rocket V race that came on my 2002 Giant NRS 1 and when I got the Jamis with the Fizik that caused numbness the first saddle that I tried was the Rocket V stealth. And the family jewels have been happy ever since. ;-)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago Date Reviewed: April 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anything outdoors
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
local shop
Strengths:
Conforming and comfortable w/o being too mushy. Light- 190g for a saddle this plush- wow! Reflective panels are nice touch for city riders at night.
Weaknesses:
Can be a little tough to slide off the back when you need to.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia, Selle San Marco, stock generic "Plush" saddle.
Bike Setup:
Joker w/ Easton carbon seat post.
Bottom Line:
For a saddle that weighs only 190g, this saddle is way comfortable. It feels so nice that I tossed my road saddle, Selle San Marco Aspide, and out another Stealth V on it. The reflective panels are a nice touch that no one else thought of. And the Ti rails do a really nice job of mellowing things out.
Combine the Easton carbon seatpost, Ti rails, and comfy saddle and you have a happy butt!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
fonseca
a Cross Country Rider
from VA Date Reviewed: March 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$70.00
Strengths:
Light weight, comfortable, no numbness, it has a nice "give" to it, and leather cover has the right amount of grip.
Weaknesses:
The stitching on the front of the cover is not very straight. Cosmetic, but it makes lining up the saddle during adjustments somewhat annoying.
Similar Products Used:
Half a dozen WTB saddles over the years, a few sella italias.
Bike Setup:
'02 Switchblade
Bottom Line:
WTB never said this saddle had a carbon _fiber_ channel; they said it had a carbon channel and then went on to describe it as a black daimond weave. Common sense would dictate that a long, narrow piece of carbon fiber in the middle of a padded saddle would be extremely painful anyway.
I find this saddle comfortable despite it's light weight and narrow width. I like the concave shape that the rocket v series has, unlike the speed v and laser v series, which have a more rounded, convex shape. That's completely subjective, and it all depends on what fits you. I have friends that definitely do not find this shape comfortable.
After close to 1.5 years of use the reflective material is very worn, as is the silver paint. Otherwise it's holding up great, no tears yet and the stitching is still like new. WTB makes the best saddles imo, and they have a wide range of shapes to fit everyone. If you don't like this saddle, look at the laser v line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rex
a Cross Country Rider
from Palo Alto, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Bella Vista/Monte Bello
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$110.00
Purchased At:
City Cycle of San Francisco
Strengths:
Low weight, comfortable ride, allows great movement.
Weaknesses:
Gives reflection light when try to take a picture of bike with flash lights on.
Similar Products Used:
Avocet Turbo, Sella Italia, Bianchi. Avocet Air 40.
Bike Setup:
Seven Ti Hardtail, XTR drivetrain with Kings hubs with Mavic 517. Avid Ultimate brakes, Ritchey Stem, Easton carbon post and handlebar.
Bottom Line:
Perfect seat for the lightweight hardtail. Give great support and allows great movement. Have not had any problem with pain on long climbs, probably because of the "Love Channel." Initially I was concerned whether the different texture on different part of the seat was going to cause problem, but that had never been a problem. Most comfortable among the seat that I have tried. Not a bad looking seat either, but I rate performance over looks anyday.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross Country Rider
from Conshohocken, Pa Date Reviewed: October 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$99.00
Purchased At:
Bike Line
Strengths:
Light, looks great and COMFORTABLE.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
OEM stuff, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Trek Hardtail w/ LX and XT level components
Bottom Line:
This saddle is great. At first feel it's firm but because of that you don't bottom out the padding. I do at least 20 miles/day and on this saddle with no soreness or numbness to speak of.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JAMES MARTIN
a Racer
from WEST BLOOMFIELD Date Reviewed: September 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
ALL OF THEM
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$90.00
Purchased At:
PERFORMANCE BIKE
Strengths:
Light, superbly comfortable, attractive.
Weaknesses:
Lacks the curved snout of the original WTBs.
Similar Products Used:
All WTBs, Flite, Max Flite, Trans Am, Pro Link Gel and several other "ergo" designs.
Bike Setup:
Trek Fuel, Sram XO, Mavic CrossMax, Manitou Elite Air
Bottom Line:
I've been partial to WTB saddles since their inception, but because I'm a sucker for new products I've continued to try various new designs from other makers. I didn't think they could ever improve on their SST.98 model, but they've done it with the Rocket V Stealth. I prefer the smoother Stealth cover, which I just put on my road bike, over the suede-like cover on the Rocket V. That latter feels somewhat sticky and makes it difficult to slide around on the bike. My only request is that WTB incorporates their classic drop nose on future models, as I do have a problem snagging my shorts--especially late in a race when I'm lazy getting in and out of the saddle. This is a phenomenal saddle.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder Date Reviewed: September 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
The next one
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Comfortable, light, looks purty
Weaknesses:
None at all.
Similar Products Used:
Sella Italia Fluid. By "fluid" Sella Italia actually means brick covered in leather.
Bike Setup:
Kona, XT, SID SL, Crossmax, where did my money go?
Bottom Line:
I can't say enough good things about this saddle. It is COMFORTABLE, yet light and very sturdy. Those things usually don't mix in the biking world.
This saddle and tubeless @ 35 PSI is like riding a couch. A fast couch.
Somewhat pricey, but worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: August 2, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Stock on NRS 2
Strengths:
Comfort, looks
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS 2
Bottom Line:
Saddle comfort is subjective, but for my particular butt this is one comfortable saddle. I am particularly impressed with the lack of numbness that was a problem with my previous one. Thanks Giant for selecting this saddle on the NRS line.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blake Johnston, M.D.
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix Date Reviewed: July 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
National
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
came with my bike
Strengths:
durable, comfortable saddle.
Similar Products Used:
Johns Avenger; WTB Speed
Bike Setup:
Giant NRS 2
Bottom Line:
Seat came with the bike. At first, I thought it was too firm. However, the seat broke in and now I can ride for quite a while before needing a break. I'll probably replace this one with another Rocket when the time comes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, NC, USA Date Reviewed: June 9, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$62.00
Purchased At:
Can't give out
Strengths:
This is for the rocket v laser saddle. Lightweight, very comfortable, easy to get used to, and good looking saddle.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Body Geometry Gel
Bike Setup:
1999 K2 Zed frame, shimano lx components, thomson seatpost, rocket v laser saddle, irc mythos tires, rest is stock from 1999.
Bottom Line:
I had the specialized saddle on my bike for 2 years and upgraded to the rocket v laser and I love it...much lighter and more comfortable. If you don't mind paying near $100 at store for saddle then this is the saddle for you. WTB also has cheaper ones which are comfy as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
marley vike
a Racer
from San Marcos, CA USA Date Reviewed: June 7, 2002
Favorite Trail:
hidden hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$75.00
Strengths:
The seat looks odd from the side with the big swale in the middle of the seat and the little kicker tail. However, the seat works fantastic. I put it on my bike a couple of days before a 24hr. race and through the entire 100 miles of racing, the seat was never a problem. Always confortable. My ass loved it. The riders behind me liked the reflective back during the night laps although this is not the seat you want if you are going to poach illegal trails at night
Weaknesses:
None - who would want carbon fiber on the cover of a seat anyway - a massochist? Although in some of the descriptions I have seen, the cover material is called cabonara, not carbon.
Similar Products Used:
Selle Italia Flite, WTB SST & Laser V, SDG Bel Air & Comp, old Turbo seats, Unicanitor, Brooks B17.
Bike Setup:
Haro Werks XLS, XTR, Chris King Hubs, XT discs, Titec Flat Tracker bar, Titec Ti stem, Titec seat post
Bottom Line:
The ass don't lie, this seat works.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean Tobin
a Cross Country Rider
from Mission Viejo, CA Date Reviewed: May 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Mt. Wison
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$89.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Very lightweight@210 grams. This is the most comfortable saddle I have owned. I appreciate the thin profile which allows easy access off the back of the seat. The nose is shaped perfectly sliding forward on steep climbs. If you want to take a little weight off the bike without sacrificing comfort, this is the saddle you want.
I cant think of a reason not to purchase this saddle. It works for the kind of riding I do, and the price is in line with other high end saddles.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
dogbert
a Cross Country Rider
from Lebanon, NJ Date Reviewed: April 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Chimney Rock, Round Valley
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Bike N Gear
Strengths:
comfortable; narrow profile makes it easier to maneuver bike underneath me; light weight for the Stealth (ti rails) version
Weaknesses:
None, although until deer start wearing headlights on my local trails, the 3M reflective corners are a feature I don't need.
Similar Products Used:
WTB SST, fi'zi:k Nisene, Bontrager, CODA
Bike Setup:
Turner XCE
Bottom Line:
Saddle fit is a very personal and subjective thing. On a full-suspension bike, I spend most of my time in the saddle. The best thing I can say about this saddle is I don't even notice it. After not being on a bike for about 5-6 weeks, the first two rides on this saddle were one hour and 3 hours on consecutive days. No soreness or post-ride discomfort whatsoever.
I liked the narrow profile of the Nisene, but it was too firm (and tore when it met up with some rocks in a crash). I liked the feel of my older WTBs (but wanted something narrower), and they've seemed to be a little more durable. This Rocket V Stealth gives me the best of both worlds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gavtheman
a Cross Country Rider
from Melbourne,Victoria,Australia Date Reviewed: April 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Studley Park, Mt Dandenong
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
This review is for the Cromoly Race version, this saddle came stock on my 2002 Giant SE2, it is one of the easiest saddles to get used to.... reasonably light, very good looking cos its colour coded to the bike.
Weaknesses:
Nothing worth griping about!
Similar Products Used:
1st generation Selle Italia Turbo, Avocet Gel, Selle Italia SLR XP(nut cracker!!!)
Bike Setup:
Giant SE2 with lots of mods...
Bottom Line:
An easy saddle to get comfortable on all day, even when not wearing padded cycling shorts. Don't buy it if you think 275gms is too heavy for a saddle!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Alpharetta, GA Date Reviewed: March 26, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Chickopee
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Came with Bike
Strengths:
Light, great channel feel, TI rails and seat has held up under crashes and my 180lb butt.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Terry, Flite
Bike Setup:
NRS Air
Bottom Line:
If you're out of the saddle when you ride, then any seat will do, yet if you want a light weight saddle that is performance driven, looks good, holds up under stress and is a bit firm, you can't go wrong with this saddle. Believe it or not, it is actually better than my Terry Fly which I have had on my road bike for over 4 years!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Puzman
a Cross Country Rider
from wallingford, CT Date Reviewed: March 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
its all good...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$50.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
reasonable weight (cro-mo weighs 268 g) seems like decent quality for price love channel works when you're seated at back of saddle good shape
Weaknesses:
padding is VERY firm love channel doesn't go far enough forward for seated climbing on nose of saddle not as comfortable as my SDG Grand Prix...
Similar Products Used:
SDG Titec Berserker WTB 2000 Selle Italia max flite trans am
Bike Setup:
LocoMoto
Bottom Line:
Saddles are so subjective, i'm hesitant to give it a rating, at least where comfort is concerned. The weight, design, and price are pretty good. But the saddle wasn't that comfortable, at least for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
What's New
»
BEST OF MTBR - Check out the highest rated bikes, parts, & gear!
»
LED BIKE LIGHT SHOOTOUT 3 - We test all the newest products and latest light and battery technology in this comprehensive guide»
$
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
Overall Rating:
