PRO Falcon saddle

The Falcon saddle from PRO has a flat shape and firm but generous padding that's ideal for racing cyclists. It's available in three widths, with an optional cutout version, and is very nicely made with a carbon base that keeps the weight down.

• Pros: Comfort, low weight, looks good
• Cons: The flat shape won't suit non-racers

I generally get on with a wide variety of saddle shapes and found the Falcon's flat design acceptable on everything from short spins to longer jaunts. The Falcon is definitely from the performance-enhancing school of product design, but I still found it comfortable without any discomfort to speak of.

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The nose dips down and the EVA padding is generously firm without being rock solid, with just enough give in the carbon base to ensure it doesn't feel like you're straddled aboard an anvil. It's a shape that best suits riders who spend most of the time hunched over the bars rather than sat bolt upright.

A small central groove runs the entire length of the saddle and is designed to relieve pressure in this delicate area, a task it performs well. The wing-shaped rear section of the saddle saves weight while still providing a wide area to sit.

The shape also suits those who sit in the same position most of the time. It's supportive and stable and keeps your sit-bones planted in the correct place. The long nose does provide the opportunity to slide forward if you're climbing or really riding on the limit, and the smooth PU upper material reduces friction and helps you slide back and forth when needed.

The carbon-reinforced polymer moulded base provides a stiff platform, but there's a bit of flex for helping to damp vibrations on rougher roads, but it's not the most forgiving.

The stainless rails are generously marked to help set the saddle fore-aft position.

Coming in at 211g it's a light saddle – actually lighter than the claimed weight, which doesn't happen that often – but about what you expect for this price.

Costing a penny under £100 it's pretty good value for the weight, performance and comfort. It's lighter than the £180 Astute Star Lite VT, although if you really want lightweight you'll have to pay more, such as £250 for the Rapha Pro Team saddle or £210 for the Fizik Arione R1 Versus Evo.

> Buyer's Guide: 13 of the best high-performance saddles

Saddles are such a personal choice that it's hard to recommend one without knowing your exact requirements, but if you are racing and prefer a flat and firm saddle, the Falcon certainly has a lot going for it.

Its appearance generally suits a carbon race bike as well, sleek and minimalist as it is. It's understated and devoid of shouty logos, so should look good when mixed with other branded finishing kit.

Verdict

A firm and supportive saddle that's a good weight for the money