Ergon SR Allroad Pro Men review: This versatile sports saddle impresses on gravel bikes with its shape, which effectively reduces pressure and friction. The price and weight are also right, and all versions are available in a shape specifically designed for women.
There's probably no other component on a bicycle that sparks such a wide range of opinions as the saddle. But it's pointless to argue, try to convince anyone, or even change their mind. Which saddle feels good and "fits" is so individual that you have to make the choice entirely on your own. What you can do, however, is recommend a saddle to someone – for example, the Ergon SR Allroad Pro Men, whose name already suggests a broad range of uses, from road bikes to gravel bikes.
What makes the saddle from this Koblenz-based manufacturer so special? The company name itself suggests that its products are developed according to ergonomic principles, which of course goes without saying. However, Ergon saddles are constructed somewhat differently than many competing models – and they also look somewhat different.
Wide longitudinal groove and soft padding
The Ergon SR Allroad Pro Men starts with the longitudinal groove, a feature that's practically standard on all modern sporty saddles. This opening varies in width, narrowness, length, and purpose, but it always serves the same function: pressure relief in the perineum area, where men are particularly sensitive when cycling.
Ergon SR Allroad Pro Men: the highlights
- Ergonomic saddle for men with wide longitudinal groove and contoured saddle shell
- Pleasantly soft padding
- "Sliding flanks" prevent lateral friction when pedaling.
- Two widths (142 / 151 mm), length 248 mm
- Weight 259 grams (narrow version)
- Price€ 129,95
- Also available in a version tailored to the female anatomy.
This works better sometimes, less well sometimes – and it works very convincingly with the Ergon SR Allroad Pro Men. The first thing you notice is that the opening on this saddle is comparatively small; the longitudinal groove, on the other hand, is quite long and wide. The saddle shell under the padding isn't flat as usual, but also has a longitudinal indentation. This means that the saddle's groove can be deep enough and padded accordingly. And, even more importantly: compared to many saddles with a central opening, the Ergon has no hard edges, like those that often surround said opening.
If this is the case, the following can happen: Initially, such a saddle feels quite comfortable, but then the sensitive perineum is pressed against this hard edge by the body weight. Thus, a design intended to relieve pressure can actually create additional stress while sitting. In contrast, the groove of the SR Allroad Pro Men is softly padded all around and quite wide, providing good protection against unpleasant pressure.
"Sliding flanks" against lateral friction
Elsewhere, a friction-reducing feature is noticeable: The soft padding of the saddle extends laterally beyond the hard saddle shell, meaning that the thighs don't rub against the side edge of the shell while pedaling. In general, it's noticeable while cycling that the thighs have plenty of room, allowing for unimpeded downward pedaling – Ergon calls this "gliding flanks".
In the tested Medium/Large version, the Ergon is 151 mm wide; the S/M version measures 142 mm. Both models are 248 mm long, making the Allroad a typical short saddle of modern design. There isn't much room to slide forward and backward; however, there's also little reason to leave the central riding position. And when you shift your weight forward on a steep section, it becomes clear that the saddle nose is still long enough and pleasantly soft.
After a good 1.200 kilometers on the gravel bike, the verdict is unequivocally positive: The Ergon SR Allroad Pro Men impresses with its well-thought-out design and soft, yet not plush, padding. The weight of just under 260 grams with the titanium rails is also perfectly acceptable, and at €129,95, the European-made saddle is by no means expensive. Ergon offers the model in a carbon version that is just under 200 grams lighter for just under €200; there is also a version with slightly lighter padding for €89,95. Furthermore, Ergon offers the complete range for women, with a shape adapted to their anatomy.