Fizik Monte K:IUM Enduro Saddle Review
May 20th, 2016
By Andrew Dodd in Reviews
Product Full Name | fi’zi:k Monte K:IUM Enduro saddle
Retail Price | £89.99
Available From | Extra UK
Fizik Monte K:IUM Enduro Saddle Review
Because everyone has different preferences, it’s hard to say just how comfortable a saddle is – but the new Fizik Monte is a pretty good bet for a saddle that will suit a lot of riders.
Aimed at Enduro riders, the Fizik Monte has a few neat features to make the saddle both comfortable – and strong…
First up is the length – the 275mm nose to tail length is around 10-15mm shorter than most saddles. This does mean there is less room to move around on the seat, but it also means its a bit tougher.
The retain comfort, the rails of the Fizik Monte don’t mount in to the base at the back – the base of the saddle over hangs. This allows it to flex, which combined with the wing flex makes it really comfortable when hovering in rough terrain. The whole back of the saddle flexes quite a lot – and is ultra comfortable straight out the box.
The rails on this model are made from K:ium – Fizik’s unique alloy rails that are 8% lighter than titanium equivalents – but the Monte is also available with Manganese rails at a cheaper price point.
The cover on the Fizik Monte is a Microtex synthetic leather, which is soft and comfortable – but tough too. The top of the saddle features a pressure relieving groove for extended comfort, and the sides are tough cordura – giving the protection against crashes and general scuffs.
The nose of the Fizik Monte is a touch shorter than some, but the width, padding and shape mean it’s easy to perch on the front on steeper climbs in comfort. Despite the shape looking quite pointed, I never had any issues with the saddle hooking on shorts.
We say
The Gobi has always been the benchmark saddle as far as Fizik goes, but the Monte is a more sensible saddle that suits off road riding well. It is extremely comfortable in all positions; has a pressure relief channel for long term comfort and the slightly more compact size is robust.
Although our test sample is looking pretty tatty now after a foul winter, we’re still loving it. It’s a great saddle – and well worth looking at.