I purchased an Azoto saddle earlier this year as my original Selle Italia saddle was fraying on the front right edge. Riding with the original saddle began to wear out my knicks (fluff them up etc).
Having switched over to the Azoto I began using it for not only long rides but also for all w/trainer sessions. I’ve now noticed that the newer saddle is beginning to fray in the same front right location (where the neoprene meets the bottom of the seat frame). I’m wondering whether it’s using my ‘roughed up’ knicks that has started the abrasive action on the saddle or whether the w/trainer sessions (ie lots of sweat) has been the big factor.
I’m therefore hoping to get feedback on those who have used Azoto’s, Aspide Triathgel etc (ie any saddle with neoprene) on whether they have found that the neoprene is prone to wear away rather quickly. I’m considering ordering an Aspide Tri for my new bike shortly but may think twice if it’s going to break down quickly.
Do saddle covers fit these types of saddles (ie big nosed)?
I haven’t used those particular saddles, but I’ve also worn holes in the right sides of the fronts of saddles. Plus, my shorts got all roughed up. This may not be your problem, but I realized that my right knee and thigh were riding way inside of where they should have been. I bought some wedges for my cleats and put two in. Now my knee is in much better position and my thigh doesn’t rub my saddle. I also put neoprene saddle covers on both bikes. I haven’t had the problem since doing those things.
I dont use the Azoto. But it is covered by a neoprene which is itself bonded to lycra or a nylon-lycra-spandex analog. Neoprene is not very tough or durable. And Lycra/spandex wears even faster. Both are flexible, but generally seem poor saddle cover choices for durability reasons.
Although I cannot comment on the durabilty issue as I just mounted the Aspide on my bike , but I would like to ask if the whooshing sound that accompanies the lycra /spandex on neoprene drives anyone else crazy like it does me.
I changed from a Selle Italia Flite saddle which is quite a bit narrower at the nose than the Aspide which has actually forced my thighs to be wider than with the Flite. I am not sure if this a good thing or not. Comments?
Mine was doing the same thing. Last month it completely tore away leaving the hard interior of the saddle exposed. I just took it off my bike and switched to Fizik Arione Tri, which has a much narrower nose. The Azoto was really rubbing my thigh and tearing up my shorts and leg. So far, I really like the Fizik. Never tried the Aspide though.
I have noticed my right knee leg tracks a little different to the left. The left is straight up and down whereas the right has a small flick of the foot at the bottom of the stroke. My legs are generally very close to the frame as well, that’s why when I first rode the Azoto I got some nasty chaffing as I was so used to riding the narrow nose.
Where can you order the neoprene covers you speak of? Would it be better go get a leather one if they exist?
I use “Mr. Flitie.” Here’s a link to one. http://www.all3sports.com/product/categoryID/49/Manufacturer/0/ProductID/3270 The one thing you need to know if you put one on, but they don’t tell you, is you have to turn it inside out and then “roll” it on from the nose. If you just try to pull it on you’ll most likely rip it. I’m not sure if it will fit the saddle you have. I have couple gel triathlon saddles and it works on them.
Well, you’re right. If the general theme of your thread is that the newer generation of triathlon saddles aren’t too durable then I agree with maybe one exception- The Fizik Arione Tri and regular Fizik Arione seem to hang in there pretty good so far compared to the others, but then again they haven’t been out very long.
Based on our experience, it is reasonable to expect to replace your saddle after every season with the new generation of tri saddles. They will get you through the season, but that’s about it.