Saddle

Diatech Gran Compe saddle - detail

There’s no doubt the Gran Compe is a fine saddle designed to capture the imaginations of the traditionalist and hipster alike thanks to the selection of flamboyant and more conservative colours coupled with sharp detailing including embossed logos and brass rivets at the rear. However, giving a penny change from £80 beauty comes at a price and there’s a weight penalty too thanks to steel rails.

We've all seen amusing, noseless 'medical' saddles, but have you ever tried riding a bike while sitting on one? It's only then that you appreciate how much of your control is down to the nose of your seat. But the science behind the twin-pad designs is pretty sound - you're sitting on it using your sit bones, rather than perching on your perineum.

Here are the bits that I've got to flog off after finishing my fixie conversion:

Chorus 9-speed rear mech. Couple of very small scrapes but otherwise great condition and perfect working order. £40

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jezash/4066302180/

Racing T triple front mech (braze on). Good condition, some blue paint on the attachment bolt and washer (see bottom of picture) which would come off easily with some thinner. £20

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jezash/4066305406/

Ritchey Streem Carbon saddle wht_persp

Ritchey Streem Carbon saddle wht_side

Ritchey Streem Carbon saddle blk_side

Ritchey biomax saddle wht_side

Ritchey Streem Carbon saddle blk_persp