In a recent review of Selle San Marco’s Aspide saddle, Empfield wrote, “Much in the same way that Selle Italia brought out the Flite and revolutionized the cycling world with its minimalist approach, …”
It’s interesting to note that Brooks previously produced a leather saddle with the same design concepts as the Flite - light weight, exposed saddle rails, cut-away design. It was called the Champion Swallow and was available in 1930. That’s right, 73 years ago.
My point is not to nit-pick Dan’s article. I just think it’s interesting that most “revolutionary” bicycle designs are actually very old - or at least a play off something very old.
If you like this type of bicycle minutia, the Rivendell Reader is a good read.