SPECIALIZED POWER ARC PRO
£170
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