Fit talk:
Condor Cycles

Choosing the right bike size and style is an important part of optimizing the ride experience. Of course, fine-tuning that set-up is an equally crucial step—and that includes finding the right saddle. To learn more, we spoke with the bike-fit experts at Condor Cycles to get their perspective on the process—and to discuss the role shape plays in reducing pressure and increasing overall rider support.

FIZIK When do you usually recommend the Antares shape?

JW Most commonly, Antares seems to suit riders who don't apply so much frontal pressure to the saddle. Sportive/comfort road bike and gravel bike fits generally push the rider's weight back over the saddle spreading the pressure, meaning the flatter shape works well in these scenarios.

“Most commonly, Antares seems to suit riders who don't apply so much frontal pressure to the saddle.”

FIZIK How often do you recommend cyclists to reconfirm or update their position/fit on the bike?

JW Quite regularly when people have a particular issue with their fit, it's usually because a contact point needs a rethink. Sometimes this can just be positional (saddle/bars/cleats out of place), but sometimes it can also be down to technique or body posture in need of correction.

FIZIK Which saddle are you using on your bike(s)?

JW For the past nine years, I've been using the Specialized Power 143mm, but will soon be using a 145mm Aliante One-to-One. Recent analysis of my own seating pressure highlighted that I should benefit from spreading the pressure over a larger area rather than just the front of the saddle.

FIZIK Did you work or are you working with any athlete you’re proud of?

JW I've been lucky enough to work with many athletes over the years, but the one that springs to mind first isn't even really a cyclist. She is a professional football player called Wiktoria Fronc. She plays and has played for a number of top-level sides as well as for England—and all this on top of being a neuroscience student. Earlier in the year, I was proud to help her with a full bike fitting before she took part in and completed a full Ironman triathlon.