In the last months we have launched the new VT Gel series (VT30 Gel, VT30C Gel, VT20 Gel, VT30C Gel) which have been promptly tested by the most important Italian bike magazines:
MtbCult.it tried out the VT30C Gel, read the article
Bicidastrada.it reviewed the VT20C Gel, here you find the article
Cyclinside.it, also this magazine, which offers several technical tips about bikes, tested the VT20C Gel, here the article
In the last months we have launched the new VT Gel series (VT30 Gel, VT30C Gel, VT20 Gel, VT30C Gel) which have been promptly tested by the most important Italian bike magazines: MtbCult.it tried out the VT30C Gel, read the article Bicidastrada.it reviewed the VT20C Gel, here you find the article Cyclinside.it, also this magazine, […]
You have strayed from the usual routes to try new roads.
You have discovered the magical nature of dirt tracks, minor roads and being close to nature.
You have reached a state of mind that is less bound by constraints and preconceptions.
We have created the new VT Gel Series to meet the demands of off-road and long-distance cycling typical of Gravel. With Gel incorporated in the padding, the new VT Gel makes even the most difficult and demanding routes easier, and even more comfortable and durable.
Patented ergonomics
The comfort of the VT GEL range is ensured by the patented ergonomic features ‘Designed on Your Body’: a central channel, eagle-beak tip, geometric support surface, rear depression and tube rail design.
The comfort of Gel and excellent materials
Polyurethane Gel coupled with SSPU padding creates a perfect cushioning system to absorb the repeated stresses typical of Gravel.
Safety and quality are guaranteed by using the best materials for the structural elements of the saddle: high-modulus unidirectional carbon fibre, AISI 304 alloy and carbon-fibre reinforced nylon 12 for the shell and rail.
The SVT Velvet Touch cover ensures high resistance, even in the toughest conditions.
How to choose the right model
The VT Gel range consists of four new models:
VT20C Gel – short saddle with narrow surface. For sit bones width up to 12.5 cm
VT20 Gel – narrow surface. For sit bones width up to 12.5 cm
VT30C Gel - short saddle with wide surface. For sit bones width up to 12.6 cm
VT30 Gel – wide surface. For sit bones width up to 12.6 cm
You have strayed from the usual routes to try new roads. You have discovered the magical nature of dirt tracks, minor roads and being close to nature. You have reached a state of mind that is less bound by constraints and preconceptions. We have created the new VT Gel Series to meet the demands of […]
An important history that has evolved alongside the bicycle, or rather, with bicycle saddles.
The bicycle, instead, has been around for 200 years, a number that also represents an evolutionary path, without eras, generations or boundaries. Many things have changed, but some of them are like permanent features that have always been around, and the saddle is one of these. They have certainly changed, but saddles are a mainstay in the centuries-long history of cycling.
In 1947, in the immediate post-war period, Italy was a country in need of reconstruction but, as we know, misfortunes can also lead to opportunities. Strength and tenacity were required in order to deploy the spirit of initiative. There was a desire to give shape to ideas and this is precisely what inspired Martino Schiavon, who produced bicycle saddles in an attic in the centre of Padua. Our history began right here, with a bold and fearless craftsman.
Craftsmanship and handmade, courage and devotion to our own land, all these concepts are in our DNA and are part of the way we work. But the path of a company is like a cobbled street made of many porphyry stones, which are all different yet all necessary. In 1970, for example, we produced one million saddles, and in 1990 we reached the six million mark. However, the fundamental aspects still focus on our family, the principle value, and our devotion to high-quality work, which does not fear a globalised market.
Even today, one of our greatest successes is having maintained and consolidated the entire Selle SMP production in the Veneto region. Our company is part of an economic system that represents the driving force of Italy and Europe. This is a source of pride and satisfaction for us.
Today, Selle SMP is headed by Franco and Maurizio Schiavon, the sons of Martino, who remained in the role of president until just before he died in 2006.
Both Maurizio and Franco have clear memories of their career paths within the company. Such memories are not easily forgotten because they dwell in the heart:
Maurizio Schiavon “Everyone calls me an entrepreneur, but if I look back - and looking back is certainly essential to being able to look ahead - I still remember my father’s words, the phrase, when he told me: “Look, if you want, there's room here for you too”, referring to the workshop we had below our house. I began by working my way up and making deliveries, and even today, although time has passed, I feel a bit like a shop boy and still a craftsman, certainly a skilled craftsman but, nevertheless, a Craftsman.”
Franco Schiavon: “I joined the company at the age of 22, after my language studies, although during the school holidays my father always called me because he needed help. I was happy to help out. I worked my way up to learn the job, and then I started to deal with the business aspect. The best memory I have is of my first customer in Salzburg. In addition to a professional relationship, we have developed a good friendship.”
And following in the footsteps of Franco and Maurizio are their offspring, the third generation of Selle SMP. Because for us it is a tradition, a family passion and there is still a long way to go in the saddle.
An important history that has evolved alongside the bicycle, or rather, with bicycle saddles. The bicycle, instead, has been around for 200 years, a number that also represents an evolutionary path, without eras, generations or boundaries. Many things have changed, but some of them are like permanent features that have always been around, and the […]
More than a month has passed since the Olympic appointment but the emotions are still very much alive for our triathlete Fernando Alarza. Happy with his twelfth place, Fernando tells his story by showing great awareness.
Welcome back Fernando, how are you?
Well, happy and satisfied with the work done during these months
What can you tell us about this Olympic experience (it is the second one)?
Yes, it was my second participation at the Olympics. They were an Olympic Games more different than usual due to the pandemic, but they are always very special in term of environment, athletes and all other aspects.
What were the most difficult moments?
Above all, the most difficult moments were those experienced during the pandemic, in 2020 with all the uncertainty that it caused us and with the difficulties that it caused us in our preparation.
What did you bring home from this experience?
A plus in my sports career. It is a professional experience that few people can achieve, it is the most important sporting event in the world.
How did you prepare for this date?
I can really say that I have linked some Olympics with others, thanks to the fact that I have remained in the top 5 of the World during an Olympic cycle. That has been preparing and mentalizing me for the appointment.
Even so, the preparation has been hard, I have spent many weeks a year away from home, concentrating in altitude and in Alicante to get used to the heat and humidity.
What are the main aspects to take into account when approaching such an important appointment?
Discipline, work, being willing to sacrifice many things in your life, from day to day, such as not being able to be with my family and my daughter.
How important is the head and the mental focus to achieve good results in a race of this type?
It is essential, mental capacity is very important when it comes to getting your maximum performance. Especially in those moments when it seems like you can't take it anymore, but you have to try positive thinking.
What did you think when you crossed the finish line?
It's over, I was OLYMPIC again. The goal that I had had in my head for so many months of giving my best had come to an end, I had achieved it.
How much physical and mental fatigue have these Olympic Games cost you?
Much, the Olympic Games require 100% physical and mental delivery
I suppose you are now taking a well-deserved vacation ...
Yes, it was what I wanted most after finishing, to be able to spend time with my family.
Your next big goals?
For the rest of the season I don't have great goals, I do want to make the leap little by little to the middle distance, so I will do a test in October, and two races in Spain with my team.
More than a month has passed since the Olympic appointment but the emotions are still very much alive for our triathlete Fernando Alarza. Happy with his twelfth place, Fernando tells his story by showing great awareness. Welcome back Fernando, how are you? Well, happy and satisfied with the work done during these months What can […]
When we launch a new saddle, our priority is always rider's comfort and well-being.
So it was also with VT30C, the first model of the VT Series, apparently traditional but with all the ergonomic features patented by Selle SMP: the completely open central channel and the "eagle's beak" tip to favor the natural blood flow and avoid any compression to the private parts; the longest rail in the market to allow everyone to always find the right position in the saddle; the rear depression to protect the coccyx from impacts and kickbacks.
After two years from the presentation of VT30C and its great success all over the world, we expands VT Series with three new models: VT20, VT20C and VT30.
The goal is to provide more and more options to fit the body features and needs of each cyclist, just like a tailored suit.
VT20
142 mm wide, it is perfect for cyclists with a medium-narrow pelvis (sit bones width between 9 and 11.5 cm).
VT20C
Compact version of VT20, with a length of 255 mm.
VT20C is ideal for cyclists with a medium-narrow pelvis (sit bones width between 9 and 11.5 cm).
VT30
Wider version of VT20 (155 mm width), it is suitable for cyclists with a medium-wide pelvis (sit bones width between 11.6 and 15 cm).
Technology
Every detail is carefully studied: from the special padding in SSPU to the shell in Nylon 12 loaded with carbon fiber, passing through the special Velvet Touch cover and the rail in AISI 304 stainless steel tube Matt Black.
VT20, VT20C and VT30 are available with both AISI 304 steel tube or unidirectional carbon fiber rail.
Suggested use
All VT models are unisex and perfect for any type of use: road, mountain bike and gravel. In addition, the two compact saddles VT20C and VT30C are also ideal for triathlon.
Do you want to find your ideal model?
With Saddle Finder, you're done in seconds!
When we launch a new saddle, our priority is always rider’s comfort and well-being. So it was also with VT30C, the first model of the VT Series, apparently traditional but with all the ergonomic features patented by Selle SMP: the completely open central channel and the “eagle’s beak” tip to favor the natural blood flow […]
Why a specific saddle line? What are our needs when riding an e-bike?
Riding an electric bicycle, even for long distances, requires less effort thanks to the help of the engine. However the weight of our body is less supported by the push of the legs on the pedals and weighs more on the saddle.
The position on an e-bike is much less subject to the changes in position and weight shifts often necessary on the traditional bike. For example, on the electric bike there is no need to get up on the pedals often to overcome demanding stretches or to relaunch the thrust. In this way the pressure on the genitals and perineal area is almost never relieved.
Furthermore - as a recent study by the University of Zurich – on average we ride an e-bike for more hours a week than traditional bicycles.
These factors increase the most common issues to the genitals and perineal area, such as numbness, tingling and pain, for both men and women.
The exclusive Selle SMP ergonomics, applied to the E-BIKE Concept range, relieves pressure from the genitals and perineal area. The special geometries of differentiated density padding and the additional Gel layer reduce the pressure on the sit bones by 30%.
The result is great comfort and well-being for all the electric bike lovers.
The new matt black Velvet Touch cover guarantees great durability and resistance.
Our new range of saddles covers all types of use and consists of 4 models: E-CITY, E-TRK, E-SPORT Medium and E-SPORT Large.
Let's see in detail the new E-BIKE Concept models:
E-CITY: saddle with large shapes and generous padding, it’s perfect for traditional and folding electric city bikes, where the position is comfortable and the weight of the body rests mainly on the sit bones.
E-SPORT: model developed for mountain bikes, road and gravel bikes, where our position is more reclined, with a significant forward rotation of the pelvis and less load on the sit bones.
E-SPORT is available in two different widths, E-SPORT Medium and E-SPORT Large, to match all physical configurations.
E-TRK: the most versatile saddle in the E-BIKE Concept range. Designed for tourism and trekking, E-TRK balances comfort and performance and is an excellent choice for any type of bike.
The E-BIKE Concept range has all the ergonomic features patented by Selle SMP:
- the fully open channel and the typical "eagle's beak" tip avoids genital and perineal compression for a natural blood flow.
- the length of the rail allows maximum fore-aft saddle adjustment and its geometry helps a more stable position in the saddle, increasing pedaling efficiency and reducing waste of energy.
- the raised rear helps to keep the right position in the saddle, especially in the accelerations typical of the electric bike and when facing steep slopes. The ergonomic design protects the coccyx from shocks and trauma.
Why a specific saddle line? What are our needs when riding an e-bike? Riding an electric bicycle, even for long distances, requires less effort thanks to the help of the engine. However the weight of our body is less supported by the push of the legs on the pedals and weighs more on the saddle. […]
Selle SMP has always considered collaborations with professional athletes to be fundamental, whose feedback is essential to improve the comfort and performance of their saddles in all situations.
One of these is Alessandro Fabian, born in Padua in 1988.
After starting his sports career with swimming and duathlon, Alessandro over the years became a world star of triathlon. In London 2012 he finished 10th, a result never achieved before by an Italian athlete. At the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympics, however, after an attacking race, Alessandro finished in 14th place. Now his goal is the Olympics in Japan and it is precisely in this challenge that the partnership between Selle SMP and Alessandro Fabian is born.
Alessandro is also testing a new model, not yet in production, which will become another spearhead of the Selle SMP range.
Here's what he told us:
"Since I started playing sports, I have worked to improve myself and enhance my path without never diverting attention from my physical well-being.
In cycling, every single component is essential to give maximum performance and one in particular is comfort. Paying the right attention in choosing the saddle, which has a strong impact on the contact points, can really make a difference.
Precisely for this reason, I have chosen to rely on Selle SMP, who with their quality and innovation will accompany me from today in my long training in view of the next Tokyo Olympics, where I will give my best.
What struck me about Selle SMP is not only the rigorous research for scientifically patented ergonomics but the all-round attention to my health, which for me is the backbone of all my work”.
Selle SMP has always considered collaborations with professional athletes to be fundamental, whose feedback is essential to improve the comfort and performance of their saddles in all situations. One of these is Alessandro Fabian, born in Padua in 1988. After starting his sports career with swimming and duathlon, Alessandro over the years became a world […]
Riding your bike to work and, perhaps, arriving a little more tired but certainly happier.
Getting on your bike to spend a Sunday or a public holiday cycling along a river bank, a forest trail or to get to the sea or a lake.
These ways of enjoying cycling are becoming increasingly popular in this 'new normality' caused by the pandemic.
In the previous article, we saw how mobility in cities has changed since the start of the current health emergency. In this article, we see how the bike is considered a new means of transport for people living outside towns and cities.
To comply with regulations regarding the health and safety of everyone, we have limited or cancelled trips abroad and minimised or avoided all opportunities to be near others, even on an everyday basis, for example when using public transport.
It is precisely in these minor changes that the bike revolution has taken hold. Such changes have surprised no one but, instead, have made us consider a bike as more than just a means of transport.
You don't need to be a professional or keen cyclist to rediscover the pleasure of cycling. You can use it to get to work and to get around for small errands. A bike, whether it is a mountain bike, a gravel bike or a city bike, is also ideal for short or long trips to rediscover the most beautiful places in our country.
As long as you comply with regulations, there is no limit to where you can go. Distance is not a problem if you have the right bike and, above all, the ideal saddle for your body. Only then can you ride for kilometres without pain, soreness or discomfort. A saddle adapts to you, and it does so because its design is unique. All Selle SMP saddles have a special patented shape, which does not obstruct blood flow and ensures superior comfort.
We have four saddles designed for trekking,bike touring and everyday use.
TRK Medium and TRK Large are two ideal saddles for such uses, which differ in size. Depending on the width of your ischial bones (which you can easily measure by watching this tutorial or using the in-store Selle SMP Stool), you can choose the one that best suits your body. The comfortable padding and velvety SVT Touch cover also provide unprecedented comfort.
For those looking for extra softness, TRK Medium Gel and TRK Large Gel by Selle SMP are ideal. The gel follows your body movements, adapting to your every shape.
Do you want to make sure you choose the right saddle? Try our Saddle Finder or download the Selle SMP app.
Riding your bike to work and, perhaps, arriving a little more tired but certainly happier. Getting on your bike to spend a Sunday or a public holiday cycling along a river bank, a forest trail or to get to the sea or a lake. These ways of enjoying cycling are becoming increasingly popular in this […]
The year 2020 has made us change our habits, the way we live and also the way we move around the city. In particular, there has been a huge increase in alternative vehicles to avoid close contact, which is inevitable on public transport.
Some vehicles are relatively new, such as the scooter, while others are timeless classics. Here, we are clearly referring to the city bike.
A city bike lets you get around with the utmost safety in the face of the Coronavirus. Moreover, it is healthy, fun, economical and sustainable. Let's take a closer look at these aspects:
- You can get outdoors and away from other people on a bike;
- Cycling is good exercise that helps us keep healthy longer, especially when done on a daily basis;
- A bike has fewer restrictions and getting around the city is easier and faster;
- The city bike is environmentally friendly because it does not pollute, lasts for many years and is recyclable;
- A bike is economical. Once you have bought a city bike, it takes you anywhere you want without you having to pay fares. It also requires very little maintenance;
- A bike can be used all year round.
So there are no more excuses for leaving your bike at home when you are out and about in the city. Regardless of the distances covered, a city bike is the best and most comfortable choice, especially if you choose the right saddle for a city bike.
Martin Touring Medium and Martin Touring Large saddles are specifically designed for city use and for preserving a cyclist’s well-being by guaranteeing unbeatable comfort. This is due to the patented ergonomic design of Selle SMP saddles, which prevent any compression of the perineal area, and to the self-modelling Gel layer that adapts to the shape of the cyclist’s body.
Would you like to find out right now which model in the Martin Touring range is ideal for you? Do it with our exclusive Saddle Finder in just a few quick and easy steps!
The year 2020 has made us change our habits, the way we live and also the way we move around the city. In particular, there has been a huge increase in alternative vehicles to avoid close contact, which is inevitable on public transport. Some vehicles are relatively new, such as the scooter, while others are […]
Selle SMP returns to support the Bardiani CSF Faizanè team
The new season opens with a great novelty that is, in reality, a "welcome return", as defined by Maurizio and Franco Schiavon, owners of Selle SMP.
The athletes of the Bardiani CSF Faizanè team will ride on the SMP saddles for the 2021 and 2022 seasons, facing the races and challenges that this new year will present to them.
This is a collaboration which returns mainly for two reasons: the sporting and technical revolution that took place within the Team and the union of intentions between the team managers and us at Selle SMP.
“2021 will be a real challenge for everyone” say Maurizio and Franco Schiavon, “our role as Selle SMP will be to make the riders feel comfortable and ready to make their best performance on the saddle. The Bardiani-CSF-Faizanè Team is an Italian team of young riders, but with a management of great experience, with a strong awareness of seriousness and transparency: necessary prerequisites for the success of a team”.
Roberto Reverberi, Team Manager of Bardiani CSF Faizanè, adds: “We think we have set up a competitive team, both sporting and technically, and we hope to reach some great satisfactions together with our partners”.
The Team's sporting revolution brought 10 new athletes and everyone chose their SMP models, thanks also to the constant support of the Selle SMP Racing Service.
The F20, F20C, Composit, Stratos and Evolution models are among those selected by the team.
Selle SMP returns to support the Bardiani CSF Faizanè team The new season opens with a great novelty that is, in reality, a “welcome return”, as defined by Maurizio and Franco Schiavon, owners of Selle SMP. The athletes of the Bardiani CSF Faizanè team will ride on the SMP saddles for the 2021 and 2022 […]