It's a difficult combination to achieve, that of performance and comfort. Yet, when it comes to saddles, this paradigm can be subverted. Selle SMP has been doing this for years, with a scientific and personalized approach. To go fast you need to be comfortable in the saddle and the Venetian brand understood this before many others.
Founded in 1947 in Casalserugo, in the province of Padua, Selle SMP is a family-run business now in its fourth generation. Over time, it has successfully combined artisan tradition with technological innovation. The turning point came in 2004 with the launch of the first ergonomic saddle with an open central channel, Designed to reduce pressure on anatomical structures and improve blood circulation, Selle SMP currently produces over 40 models, tailored to every discipline and type of cyclist.
Among the professional teams that use Selle SMP there is the VF Group–Bardiani CSF–Faizanè, which we will soon see on the streets of Tour of ItalyOne of the standard bearers is Martin Marcellusi, with whom we talked about choice, sensations and technical details.
Martin, let's start with choosing a saddle: it's not at all a given, given the many options available. How does the selection process work?
In fact, it's not easy to choose. We have the entire Selle SMP range available. We begin with a conversation with Davide Polo, the brand's technical representative. You explain your needs, your preferred seat type, and the saddles you've used in the past. He then suggests a series of models for you to test, the ones he thinks are best for you.
How many saddles are we normally talking about?
Usually two or three, but some people try as many as five. Then we start testing them.
What features were you looking for?
I wanted a saddle that was as hard and flat as possible. I like an aggressive ride, it gives me a feeling of greater responsiveness. But at the same time, I want a saddle that allows me to push on climbs and have solid support.
You didn't mention weight. Why?
Why in the case of the saddle it is not my priority. First of all, it has to be comfortable, because if you feel comfortable, you'll be able to perform better in competition. However, the one I use weighs just over 150 grams, so it's at a very good level.
What model do you use?
La F20 C SI The “C” stands for “short” and “SI” for “unpadded”. It's a basic saddle, but it fits me perfectly.
Did you start using it when you arrived at Bardiani?
No, I already used it when I was under 23, during my time with Team Palazzago. Back then, I had a Selle SMP Evolution. When I turned pro and had the chance to test the whole range, I gradually arrived at the F20 C YES. I felt comfortable right away.
What does it mean to feel comfortable with a saddle?
As soon as I tried it I felt comfortable. No pinching, even when I was in a low grip on the handlebars, no numbness in my legs and Even after several hours I had no problems. And this is something not to be underestimated..
Was there any specific work involved in finding the ideal position?
Yes, even if they are minimal details. I got to the final position by myself, but we're really talking about millimetres.One or two at most. Micro adjustments to the inclination. These are things that only the rider can perceive. The first major adjustment took place when the team mechanics were present, then the final one, with minimal adjustments, I did it alone, going out with an Allen key in my pocket.
How many saddles do you change during the year? And why do you change them?
We change them four or five times, which isn't a small amount. But we do it regularly, not because the saddle is showing signs of wear and tear, but rather, quite the opposite. SMP saddles are durable and don't "warp" as they used to say. Changing them often is essential to always maintain the highest level of performance and comfort.
Why did you choose a short saddle?
Partly because I felt comfortable with it right away, and partly because I pedal a lot on the front. The short seat still allows me to move around easily, both when standing up and when tackling descents.
But if you pedal on your toes, wouldn't it be more logical to use a long saddle?
Not necessarily. The short saddle helps me not to overdo it by sitting too far on the nose. It gives me balance, it allows me to be flexible, without ending up too far forward. And then you have to consider that Selle SMP offers saddles with very long rails, so if you want, you can end up really far forward. But the nice thing, regardless of my situation, is that the adjustment range is very wide.
