After speaking of choice and putting in position of the saddles, here we are again with PrologueThis time we're talking about one of their peculiarities, a technology that makes them truly special: CPC. Mattia Ragni, from the Brianza-based company's marketing department, explains the differences between a traditional Prologo saddle and one with the CPC.
Among cyclists, it's now colloquially referred to as the "micro suction cup" system that prevents slipping. But there's much more. Let's find out...
Mattia, the simplest but most important question: what is CPC technology?
Il CPC is Connected Power Control, a system patented by Prologo to be used on its saddles, but also on the palm of the gloves and on some knobs.
What are the benefits?
Definitely a very strong grip, In this case, on the saddle, but also in the hand area. It's not just a matter of slipping, actually... The CPC allows for better vibration absorption. They are gods small conical polymers They help improve grip on the saddle and, I repeat, provide significant vibration absorption. CPC is extremely useful for triathlons or time trials, where the position must remain as stable as possible. Many use it on the road, but fewer on mountain bikes because it's crucial to be able to move back and forth on the saddle. But there are some bikers who like stability.
The CPC also allows you to "release some pressure" at the saddle nose. Without slippage issues, you can lower the nose (perhaps within the tolerance of the level) and avoid prostate problems or pressure on the testicles. Is this also one of the concepts behind this technology?
Not entirely, also because we often don't place the CPC at the tip of the saddle. We keep it at the rear and in the central part where the athlete's sit bones and soft tissues actually rest. Certainly the CPC helps to avoid slipping. To maintain the correct position in the saddle, regardless of the position of the saddle itself.
In terms of structure, is there any difference between a “traditional” Prologo saddle and one with CPC technology?
No, it's essentially an extra layer that adds to the cover and foams used for that model.
And are there any weight differences?
Minimal, we're talking about 10 grams. Imperceptible.
You also mentioned gloves, not just saddles: how's development going with the athletes? Is there a team you collaborate with the most? You have many of them among the pros...
Our Customers nine WorldTour teams: six men's and three women's. And several teams, both professional and continental. Honestly, we don't have a team we collaborate with more than anyone else. Feedback is welcome from everyone. In the specific case of the CPC, we have two men's WorldTour teams, Bahrain-Victorious e Intermarché - Circus Wanty who also give us feedback regarding the gloves. The athletes' sensations were fundamental to correctly position and improve the CPC on the palm of the hand.
What do athletes specifically like about the CPC?
They are literally in love with the downhill grip. When they have to push hard, they maintain an aero position and they see that they don't slip.
For example, do they tell you: on this model, put more here, less there?
Absolutely yes, then you have to accommodate different driving styles. And we often intervene on the thickness of the cones. Even if they change very little on the saddles, while they vary more on the gloves.
You mentioned female cyclists: do women have different needs?
Different needs certainly, however we have not received very different requests or feedback from our male colleagues. However It is women who prefer CPC technology. If I had to give a percentage, it would be in their favor. They both also really appreciate gloves.
You're working hard on this piece…
The advantage that the CPC glove can offer is undeniable. It offers greater grip and significantly fewer vibrations. They can truly be useful for all cyclists, from amateurs to top professionals. Furthermore, the grip in the central part of the handlebar must also be considered. Consider, for example, modern aero handlebars, which have no tape in the central part and are smooth: it is Live carbon. The CPC allows you to have a firm grip directly on the carbon of the handlebar. And it also increases safety, when it rains, when you sweat…
The CPC on the saddle increases grip, but what about shorts? Will they get ruined? Do I need specific ones?
No, it does not increase wear and tear and a specific type of bibshort is not required.
