Cycling Plus

SPECIALIZE­D POWER ARC PRO

£170

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Railed it

The Power Arc Pro is a recent addition to Specialize­d’s Power range. It bears the same sizing (143mm or 155mm widths), length and materials as the premium S-Works model, but uses a hollow titanium rail instead of the more expensive FACT carbon. Hollow titanium doesn’t seem like a downgrade, however. It’s super light, has plenty of compliance and will fit any seatpost design.

Down to hull

The Power Arc’s hull is constructe­d using carbon fibre with a bonded-on section that reinforces around the long, deep channel. This bonded section houses the rear rail fittings and neatly incorporat­es twin-threaded mounting points for Specialize­d’s range of SWAT accessorie­s. The Power is available in either 143mm or 155mm widths – use Specialize­d’s in-store fit system to find the ideal width for you.

Padding around

Specialize­d offers the Pro with its Level 2 (medium) padding. It feels deeper and softer than its minimal looks would suggest, and the deep angular channel that runs the full length of the saddle, featuring a central full cutout, offers a pressure-free feel on the bike. It’s an impressive design that makes the Pro a seriously comfortabl­e racing perch. As with any short saddle, your ability to shift around is minimal so setup is paramount, but when you get it right it’s a great place to be. And at 203.2g it’s light for this level of comfort.

HIGHS

Specialize­d’s super-soft Level 2 padding

LOWS

For optimum comfort you need to get it set up right

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