WTB Volt Chromoly
wtb volt chromoly
$96 at REI (before member cash back!)
OVERALL SCORE 84
- Comfort 8.0
- Performance 9.0
- Durability 9.0
- Weight 7.4
- Versatility 9.0
Weight: 239g | Rails: Chromoly
REASONS TO BUY
- Comfortable mountain bike seat
- Great value Mtn Bike Seat
- Classic mtn bike saddle design
- Reasonably lightweight
REASONS TO AVOID
- None
The WTB Volt Chromoly has long been a popular choice in WTB’s saddle lineup. It delivers exceptional comfort and performance at an incredible value. This mtn bike seat isn’t just affordable; it’s also remarkably comfortable, featuring a timeless design that has proven its worth over the years. Its gently curved shape, rising slightly towards the rear, offers a supportive and comfortable platform. The medium-density padding, shallow anatomical channel, and “Comfort Zone” cutout in the shell work together to alleviate pressure in the central area. Weighing just 239g for the 135mm width (as tested), the Volt Race is also impressively lightweight, especially considering its price. Our testers found this saddle to be exceptionally versatile, suitable for everything from mountain biking disciplines to road cycling.
The Volt mtn bike seat is available in three widths: 135mm (tested), 142mm, and 150mm, catering to various sit bone widths. We were particularly impressed by the level of comfort and performance offered by a saddle at this price point. For riders seeking comparable performance but in a lighter package, the WTB Koda Titanium is a worthwhile upgrade.
Read more: WTB Volt Chromoly review
mountain bike saddle profile of the volt is almost universally loved
The profile and shape of the Volt is almost universally loved, making it a top mtn bike seat.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Another Excellent Value Mtn Bike Seat
Spank Oozy 220
spank oozy 220
OVERALL SCORE 77
- Comfort 9.0
- Performance 8.0
- Durability 8.0
- Weight 5.7
- Versatility 7.0
Weight: 280g | Rails: Hollow Chromoly
REASONS TO BUY
- Reasonably priced mtn bike seat
- Comfortable mtn bike saddle
- Stylish design
REASONS TO AVOID
- Heavier weight mtn bike seat
- Only one width option
The Spank Oozy 220 is a budget-friendly mountain bike saddle that truly stood out for its comfort. Available in a 144mm width, it proved to be a great fit for our testers and should accommodate a wide range of sit bone widths. This mtn bike seat features a shallow pressure relief channel to reduce pressure on the perineal area and a relatively flat side-to-side profile. While maintaining a classic shape, it incorporates an extra-wide nose that enhances comfort when leaning forward on steep climbs. The saddle wings boast pressure zone contours that effectively cradle the sit bones, and a slight rise at the rear provides additional support, keeping you centered in the optimal riding position. The medium-density padding strikes a perfect balance, ensuring comfort throughout rides of any duration. Furthermore, the low-friction synthetic cover material, combined with the snag-free design, allows for unrestricted movement.
The primary drawback of the Oozy 220 mtn bike seat is its weight. At 280 grams, it’s among the heavier saddles we tested – approximately 80 grams heavier than the lightest competitors. It’s also offered in a single width, which, while comfortable for our team, may not suit every rider. The Tioga Spyder Outland offers a significantly lighter option at 202 grams, but also comes in only one width. Despite these minor limitations, there’s little to dislike about the reasonably priced Oozy 220 mtn bike saddle.
Read more: Spank Oozy 220 review
mountain bike saddle – the spank oozy 220 seems pretty ideal for just about any type of…
The Spank Oozy 220 mtn bike seat is versatile for various mountain bike riding styles and even gravel bikes.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Best Mtn Bike Seat for Comfort
WTB Koda Titanium
wtb koda titanium
OVERALL SCORE 84
- Comfort 9.0
- Performance 8.0
- Durability 7.5
- Weight 9.0
- Versatility 8.0
Weight: 203g | Rails: Titanium
REASONS TO BUY
- Lightweight mtn bike seat
- Very comfortable mtn bike saddle
- Short length
REASONS TO AVOID
- Only available in wider widths
The WTB Koda Titanium was initially designed for female riders, but our testing revealed this comfortable mtn bike seat is excellent for male riders too. Comfort is where this saddle truly shines. WTB’s classic, slightly curved saddle shape is evident in the Koda Team, a design that keeps riders in the sweet spot and provides subtle support as it gently rises towards the tail. An anatomical channel on the saddle’s surface and a “Comfort Zone” cutout in the shell effectively minimize pressure on the perineal area. This mtn bike seat features softer padding compared to other top performers, which might slightly reduce pedaling efficiency, though the enhanced comfort made this negligible for our testers. The Koda Titanium is impressively lightweight at 203g, ranking among the lightest saddles in our test.
If there’s a minor drawback, it’s that the Koda mtn bike seat is exclusively available in medium to wider widths: 142mm (tested) and 150mm. Riders with narrow sit bones or those preferring a narrower saddle might need to explore other options, as might riders who favor a firmer, less cushioned platform. The lightweight and narrow Tioga Spyder Outland is a suitable alternative. However, if ultimate comfort is your priority, the Koda Titanium is an outstanding choice, regardless of gender.
Read more: WTB Koda Titanium review
mountain bike saddle – the shape of the koda proved to be very comfortable for pedaling…
The shape and anatomical groove of the Koda mtn bike seat enhance pedaling comfort and pressure relief.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Most Durable Mtn Bike Seat
SDG Components Bel-Air V3
OVERALL SCORE 81
- Comfort 7.0
- Performance 9.0
- Durability 9.5
- Weight 7.7
- Versatility 8.0
Weight: 232g | Rails: Lux Alloy
REASONS TO BUY
- Durable, seamless design mtn bike seat
- Excellent power transfer
- Very comfortable
- Stylish mtn bike saddle
REASONS TO AVOID
- Only comes in one size
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 is an exceptional all-around bike saddle, particularly notable for its durability. While durability might not always be a primary concern for mountain bike saddle buyers, it’s crucial for riders who frequently crash or transport their bikes roughly. The Bel Air V3 features a vacuum-sealed, seamless top with welded edges that withstood all our tests, maintaining a near-new appearance. Importantly, this mtn bike seat combines durability with remarkable comfort, suitable for both cross-country rides and more technical adventures. Its nylon glass base ensures excellent power transfer with each pedal stroke, and we were highly impressed with its uphill pedaling performance, where its shape accommodated various pedaling positions, although some riders prefer a fixed position.
The main limitation of the SDG Bel Air V3 mtn bike seat is its single size option. While comfort is paramount, and a saddle must fit your sit bones, the Bel Air V3 offers no size variations. The WTB Volt Chromoly, however, is available in three sizes and is nearly as durable. Fortunately, the Bel Air’s size suited our testers well, and they praised the saddle. We recommend this option to anyone prioritizing exceptional durability in a mtn bike seat, provided it fits your anatomy.
Read more: SDG Bel Air V3 review
mountain bike saddle – the sdg bel air v3 is an excellent saddle in all metrics but…
The SDG Bel Air V3 mtn bike seat excels in durability and overall performance.
Credit: Zach Joseph Lovell
Lightest Mtn Bike Seat
Tioga Spyder Outland
tioga spyder outland
OVERALL SCORE 83
- Comfort 8.0
- Performance 8.0
- Durability 9.0
- Weight 9.0
- Versatility 7.0
Weight: 178g (without pads), 202g (with pads) | Rails: Hollow Chromoly
REASONS TO BUY
- Incredibly light mtn bike seat
- Innovative design
- High comfort level
REASONS TO AVOID
- One size only
The Tioga Spyder Outland is a visually striking and uniquely designed mountain bike saddle. Its design focuses on weight reduction while effectively distributing rider weight across a flexible web of material suspended over a carbonite structure. This innovative approach results in the lightest mtn bike seat in our test, weighing just 202g with the included anti-slip pads and an astonishing 178g without. Despite its unconventional appearance, the Spyder Outland’s flexible web seat cover pleasantly surprised our testers with a comfortable, suspended feel, unlike most other saddles tested. On the trail, this saddle performed admirably, with a narrow width and tapered tail that allowed for excellent freedom of movement.
The Spyder Outland mtn bike seat is available in only one width, 125mm, making it the narrowest in our test. This width won’t suit everyone, but if you have narrow sit bones or prefer a narrower saddle, it could be an excellent choice. The Tioga Spyder Outland might deter some with its distinctive aesthetics and unorthodox design, but this mtn bike seat delivers an impressively lightweight and surprisingly comfortable experience, particularly for riders seeking a narrower saddle.
Read more: Tioga Spyder Outland review
mountain bike saddle – the unique construction and material of the tioga spyder outland…
The Tioga Spyder Outland mtn bike seat’s unique construction and material contribute to its lightweight and durability.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Compare Top Mtn Bike Seats
mountain bike saddle – testing saddles in stunning coastal california terrain.
Testing various mtn bike seats in diverse terrains to ensure optimal performance and comfort.
Credit: Heather Benson
How We Test Mountain Bike Saddles
Our team of experienced testers brought decades of cycling expertise to this review. We dedicated hours to online research to identify the best and most popular mountain bike saddles, ultimately selecting 11 for rigorous side-by-side testing and comparison. Our in-depth evaluation included examining each saddle’s shape and construction, conducting drag tests to assess durability, weighing each model, and, most importantly, spending extensive time riding with each mtn bike seat on actual mountain bike trails. Each option was tested across various rides, from short backyard loops to all-day backcountry adventures. Saddles were frequently swapped during rides for direct comparisons. We ensured a fair comfort assessment by riding each saddle when our bodies were fully rested. For a detailed look at our testing procedures, please refer to our How We Test Mountain Bike Saddles article.
Our mountain bike saddle testing is based on five key rating metrics:
- Comfort (30% of overall score)
- Performance (20% weighting)
- Durability (20% weighting)
- Weight (20% weighting)
- Versatility (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab for Mtn Bike Seat Reviews?
This mtn bike seat review is spearheaded by former Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor Jeremy Benson and Review Editor Zach Lovell. Benson has been mountain biking since the early 1990s, calling Lake Tahoe, CA, home for the past 19 years. He also authored Mountain Bike Tahoe. Lovell began mountain biking two decades ago and has lived and ridden in mountain biking hotspots like Gunnison/Crested Butte, CO, and Bellingham, WA. Collectively, Lovell and Benson spend over 22 hours weekly in the saddle during the riding season, making them acutely aware of saddle fit, shape, padding, and performance across various applications. This extensive saddle time allows them to discern even subtle differences between products, providing expert mtn bike seat reviews.
mountain bike saddle durability and construction details
Durable construction is key for a long-lasting mtn bike seat.
Mountain bikers spend significant time seated, making a comfortable mtn bike seat essential for a positive riding experience.
Analysis and Test Results of Mtn Bike Seats
Over several months, our testers pushed their limits while evaluating the selected saddles across diverse terrains in the Western US, from Lake Tahoe to Crested Butte and the Southwestern Desert. Varying weather conditions, from Utah’s dry slickrock to the Rockies’ thunderstorm-soaked trails, provided comprehensive testing contexts.
Our gear-focused testers thoroughly assessed each mtn bike seat, logging over a hundred miles on each, often swapping saddles mid-ride for direct comparison. Every aspect of performance was scrutinized to identify strengths and weaknesses, with each model rated across comfort, performance, versatility, durability, and weight. These scores determined our overall winners and top-performing mountain bike saddles. We also conducted weighted drag tests to objectively measure durability. Read on to discover how these saddles compare and find the best mtn bike seat to meet your needs.
Best Value Mtn Bike Seats
At OutdoorGearLab, our aim is to identify top-performing products. We consider it a bonus when these products also offer excellent value. The WTB Volt Chromoly and Spank Oozy 220 stood out for their exceptional value-to-performance ratios in our testing, making them excellent choices for a budget-friendly mtn bike seat.
mountain bike saddle – long rides, short rides — the right mountain bike saddle can…
The right mtn bike seat enhances comfort on rides of any length.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Comfort of Mtn Bike Seats
A primary function of a bike saddle is comfort. While comfort needs vary based on riding style and performance demands, all cyclists value rear-end comfort. Comfort in a mountain bike saddle is influenced by width, length, padding, shape, and anatomical cutouts. While subjective, we rigorously assessed and determined the most comfortable saddles and the factors contributing to their comfort. Proper fit, especially width for your sit bones, is paramount for mtn bike seat comfort. If unsure, professional sit bone measurement at a bike shop is recommended, or DIY methods are available online.
The WTB Koda Titanium emerged as the most comfortable mtn bike seat in our test. Originally designed for women, its comfort appeals universally. Its short length, medium width, softer padding, slightly curved shape, and anatomical depression were tester favorites.
mountain bike saddle – comfort is always subjective, and various manufacturers come up with…
Mtn bike seat comfort varies greatly by design; the Koda Team and Tioga Spyder represent different approaches.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
We also found that a comfortable mtn bike seat doesn’t need to be expensive. The WTB Volt was highly comfortable at a lower price point than most competitors. Its slightly curved shape, medium width, and anatomical groove proved comfortable, especially for long seated pedaling. Similarly, the Spank Oozy 220 impressed with its pressure relief channel, pressure zone contours, wide nose, and slight tail rise.
mountain bike saddle profile of the volt is almost universally loved
The teardrop shape of the Volt mtn bike seat contributes to its comfort and versatility.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Performance of Mtn Bike Seats
While most saddles perform similarly, our performance metric assesses shape, padding, and overall comfort on trails. A more comfortable mtn bike seat is generally better, provided comfort doesn’t impede pedaling efficiency or freedom of movement during climbs and descents. Some saddle shapes facilitate rider movement and prevent snagging on baggy shorts more effectively than others.
mountain bike saddle – the less you notice your saddle, the better.
An ideal mtn bike seat is unnoticeable, allowing focus on the ride.
Credit: Heather Benson
The WTB Volt, a long-standing model, also excelled in performance. Its classic shape offers comfort while seated, with a medium length and width allowing ample movement. WTB saddles are known for aging well and becoming more comfortable over time. The Volt is a reliable mtn bike seat that requires minimal thought after installation.
mountain bike saddle – the volt is an enticing option for its mix of performance and value.
The Volt mtn bike seat provides an excellent balance of performance and value.
Credit: Heather Benson
The SDG Components Bel-Air V3 also impressed with its performance. Its smaller profile and nylon glass base enhance power transfer. The V3’s shape allows for varied pedaling positions, optimizing performance on flats and climbs. The Ergon SM Pro also offers excellent design, optimizing power transfer despite its softer feel.
mountain bike saddle – testing the scoop race shallow on a lovely spring day.
Testing different mtn bike seat models in various riding conditions.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Versatility of Mtn Bike Seats
While designed for mountain biking, some saddles demonstrate greater versatility. Certain models are better suited for specific disciplines like enduro or downhill, while others excel across all types of riding. Testers would confidently use certain saddles across their bike collections, from road to gravel to trail bikes. These versatile models scored higher in this metric due to their overall comfort and all-around performance as a mtn bike seat.
The SQ Lab 60X proved versatile, designed for electric mountain bikes but also performing well on human-powered bikes for trail riding or commuting. Its active rails adapt to pedaling motion, regardless of motor assistance.
mountain bike saddle versatile design for different riding styles
Versatile mtn bike seat designs adapt to various riding styles and bike types.
Credit: Zach Joseph Lovell
The SDG Circuit Ti Alloy, while a good mountain bike saddle, scored lower in versatility. Its moderate width and tapered tail offer movement freedom, but its flatter profile can cause pressure. This saddle may suit riders who spend less time seated pedaling or prefer a stiffer mtn bike seat.
mountain bike saddle – comparing a wide and shorter saddle (r) with a longer and narrower…
Comparing different mtn bike seat shapes for various riding preferences and styles.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Durability of Mtn Bike Seats
Durability is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of mountain bike saddles. While most offer similar durability under normal conditions, crashes and rough handling can impact saddle longevity. Manufacturers incorporate abrasion-resistant materials in high-impact areas like wings and tails. Top-scoring saddles in durability feature these protective materials. Construction methods also vary, from stapling to vacuum sealing, affecting overall durability of a mtn bike seat.
The SDG Bel Air V3 earned the highest durability rating. Its seamless, vacuum-sealed microfiber top with welded edges proved exceptionally resilient. In weighted pull tests on concrete, the Bel Air V3 showed minimal damage, even after extensive test rides.
mountain bike saddle – the spyder outland performed great on the trail, it was comfortable…
The Spyder Outland mtn bike seat combines comfort with durable construction for trail riding.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Both WTB saddles, Volt Chromoly and Koda Titanium, feature microfiber seat material with abrasion-resistant tail sections. Testers noted the Volt’s resilience over two seasons of crashes, demonstrating impressive durability as a mtn bike seat.
mountain bike saddle – the volts rear is comprised of abrasion-resistant material.
Abrasion-resistant materials enhance the durability of the Volt mtn bike seat.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
The SDG Components Circuit Ti-Alloy also scored well for durability, featuring a microfiber top and Kevlar-reinforced sides. The SQlab Ergowave Active similarly uses Kevlar reinforcement around its tail, adding to mtn bike seat durability.
Weight of Mtn Bike Seats
Weight is the most objective metric for mountain bike saddles. Lighter is generally preferred in cycling. Reducing weight, even in components like saddles, contributes to overall bike lightness. Saddles offer a relatively easy and often affordable way to reduce bike weight.
The WTB Koda and Tioga Spyder Outland were the lightest mtn bike seats, at 203g and 202g respectively. The Spyder Outland is even lighter at 178g without anti-slip pads, making it an exceptionally lightweight mtn bike seat option.
mountain bike saddle – thereComfort is paramount when choosing a mtn bike seat.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
How to Choose a Mountain Bike Saddle (Mtn Bike Seat)
Finding the right mtn bike seat can seem challenging, but understanding key factors simplifies the process.
Riding Style/Position for Mtn Bike Seats
Different mountain biking disciplines require different saddles. Gravity-focused riders need saddles with minimal bulk and durable materials. Cross-country riders prioritize pedaling efficiency and stability for climbs and long rides, seeking a supportive mtn bike seat. Saddle manufacturers typically indicate intended use, a helpful starting point for selection.
mountain bike saddle – choosing a saddle that compliments your riding style goes a long way…
Matching your mtn bike seat to your riding style is crucial for optimal comfort and performance.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Saddle Comfort and Fit for Mtn Bike Seats
Saddle comfort depends on anatomical fit. A too-narrow mtn bike seat causes pressure and numbness, while a too-wide one leads to chafing and impedes pedaling. Determine your sit bone width using DIY methods or professional fitting at a bike shop. Ideal saddle width slightly exceeds your sit bone width.
mountain bike saddle – while material choice and saddle shape do have an effect on comfort…
Sit bone width is the most important factor in mtn bike seat comfort, beyond materials and shape.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Rail Material of Mtn Bike Seats
Saddle rails connect the seat to the seatpost and are typically made of aluminum, steel, carbon, or titanium. Weight-conscious riders can opt for carbon or titanium rails for weight reduction if budget allows. Alloy rails offer similar performance at a lower cost for a mtn bike seat.
Materials and Construction of Mtn Bike Seats
Saddle materials influence comfort and performance. Common shell materials include composites, polymer, and carbon fiber. Carbon fiber shells enhance strength and reduce weight. Padding also differentiates saddle quality; strategically placed padding improves fit. Excessive padding, however, can cause pressure and chafing in a mtn bike seat.
mountain bike saddle – the materials that make up your saddle can have a considerable…
Mtn bike seat materials significantly impact strength, comfort, and price.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Conclusion: Finding Your Best Mtn Bike Seat
A comfortable mountain bike saddle is essential for an enjoyable riding experience. Selecting a mtn bike seat that fits well, performs effectively, and aligns with your budget is crucial. Our extensive testing and reviews aim to guide you in finding the best mountain bike saddle for your needs.
