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review
£49.99
VERDICT:
Nice overall shape but could do with softer padding especially at the nose
Weight:
282g
Contact:
At road.cc every product is thoroughly tested for as long as it takes to get a proper insight into how well it works. Our reviewers are experienced cyclists that we trust to be objective. While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed are backed up by facts, reviews are by their nature an informed opinion, not a definitive verdict. We don't intentionally try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. The overall score is not just an average of the other scores: it reflects both a product's function and value – with value determined by how a product compares with items of similar spec, quality, and price.
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The Genetic STV saddle goes a long way to provide comfort for long rides with plenty of flex and a cut out in the middle but it's all undone by overly firm padding and a solid nose. A seat for those who like a firm perch.
The STV is available in three widths with this test model here being the middle option at 143mm wide at the largest part. You can also get a 130mm or 155mm wide version to suit your preference and sit bones. Length is 278mm and the rails have 50mm of adjustment between the front and rear maximum markers.
Buy Genetic STV saddle
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I really got on well with the shape as the rear narrows into the nose quite quickly giving loads of room for my thighs.
It's billed as a sportive saddle and to that end STV has been designed to offer comfort by reducing pressure on the perineum by way of a central channel and a cut out of the nylon reinforced base.
The cut out only removes material from the base rather than the upper too but it does bring a certain amount of flex to the hull.
The hollow chromoly rails also flex a bit as well so on first inspection you'd think the saddle is going to be pretty comfortable. Unfortunately though the padding is on the firm side and the flat nose section doesn't budge at all which makes for a very solid feeling saddle that – for me at least – is uncomfortable unless you are just out for a short blast.
On any ride approaching three or so hours I actually found myself in quite a bit of pain which is a shame as in general I actually got on with the overall design. I appreciate saddle shape is a personal thing but I'd be surprised if anyone actually found the STV plush.
The overall finish is okay for the money with the PVC cover being stretched over the top and stapled to the bottom of the hull rather being sandwiched by twin hulls as you find on more expensive offerings.
When it comes to weight it's a similar story, against others that are similarly priced the STV is right in the ballpark.
Personally if I was looking for a saddle for longer rides like a sportive I'd be looking at the Fabric Line; the chromoly-railed option comes in two widths for the same price as the STV.
Verdict
Nice overall shape but could do with softer padding especially at the nose
If you're thinking of buying this product using a cashback deal why not use the road.cc Top Cashback page and get some top cashback while helping to support your favourite independent cycling website
road.cc test report
Make and model: Genetic STV 143 Road Saddle
Size tested: 143mm
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
"Modern, lightweight, comfortable sports saddle in a range of widths to suit different requirements of the rider's anatomy."
I found the Genetic STV saddle to be a nice shape but it wasn't very forgiving.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Light and strong Nylon Fibre reinforced base.
Lightweight, comfortable PU foam padding.
Sculpted anatomic shape.
Cut-away base to relieve pressure on the perineum
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
6/10
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
Rate the product for weight (if applicable)
7/10
Rate the product for comfort (if applicable)
6/10
Rate the product for value:
6/10
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
I found the shape pleasant with the narrow nose offering loads of thigh room but the padding is very firm.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
The shape
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
Overly firm.
Did you enjoy using the product? For short rides yes
Would you consider buying the product? No
Would you recommend the product to a friend? If they wanted a firm saddle.
Use this box to explain your score
The Genetic STV 143 offers pretty much what you'd expect for the money but I just found it too firm especially from a sportive saddle that you'll be spending a lot of time on.
About the tester
Age: 38
I usually ride: This month's test bike My best bike is: Kinesis Aithien
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, commuting, club rides, sportives, fixed/singlespeed,
With 20 years of road cycling and over 150,000 miles in his legs it's safe to say Stu is happiest when on the bike whatever the weather. Since writing his first review for road.cc back in 2009 he has also had a career in engineering including 3D-CAD design and product development, so has a real passion for all of the latest technology coming through in the industry but is also a sucker for a classic steel frame, skinny tyres, rim brakes and a damn good paintjob.
His fascination with gravel bikes is getting out of control too!
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