Hey David. I found gravel and refound road cycling this year, and also found your channel. It's been great, and it seems like your videos keep getting better. Thanks for all that you do, and good luck continuing to build the channel.
Personally I liked the 56 11, then for hilly courses 54 11 Then follow the Merckx answer to the do you spin an easy gear with a fast cadance or push a big gear with a low cadence? 'Push a big gear with a fast cadence'. Of course this does change to a 58+ chainring on a TT bike ;)
Ordered a Fizik Argo saddle a couple days ago to try against the power mirror I currently use. Appreciate the videos and look forward to continue to watch what you bring in 2025. Happy holidays and happy new year everyone!
Just a heads up, I tried the Fizik Argo Adaptive saddle in person, and it was comfortable but the black rubber-looking lines on the saddle have a different density than the 3d printed portions of the saddle. If sensitive areas are resting on those lines, it will cause pain and discomfort. I kept my S-Works Power Pro Mirror saddles for this reason, but those have a tendency to push your hips forward if it doesn’t fit you correctly. TLDR: Don’t buy a saddle before trying it out for yourself in person, or purchase from a store that allows you to try the saddle for a fairly substantial amount of time.
I was just about to search for a new saddle and knew where to look. I have fizik bars and love the quality. You sold me on the saddle, will buy it next month. Happy Holidays David , Thanks a million for the great channel.
Great video. I especially like the best tire segment. I use Panaracers Gravel Kings SS tires on the road for the past two years. I have yet to have a flat, even riding through patches of glass.
I agree with the Gravelking. I use the X1-R version in 45c. Fast rolling and light tire as mine came in at under 500g. Their only issue is that they inflate to almost 48mm on a 24 inner diameter rim. I had to sand down the side knobs of the front tire are they were rubbing against the fork when riding in out of the saddle.
I own the regular feedback sports stand. But I do find it a bit unstable in terms of tipping over when working on a bike. I'm a tall person, and therefore also mount the bikes higher, and this seems to be the achilles heel.
Yes, because when loaded with a bike, its weight isn't in the center of its triangular footprint and can only be remedied with one of the legs pointing directly at you underneath the bike, but it makes this one leg a tripping hazard if you're not careful. I personally use a Park Tool PCS-10.2, which has better weight distribution as the loaded bike is inside its triangular footprint. It also clamps almost every seatpost shape, not just round ones.
Great recommendations. I think 105 mechanical is a great recommendation. I have a feeling mechanical is being given short shrift these days. I’d buy a 105 mech groupset in a flash if it came out in silver. Silver components need to make a comeback.
good stuff; but reviews of saddles are pointless (imho) as seats are so very subjective and every person is different; really kinda wish there was a 'bike saddle trial service' :D
I disagree. I found my favorite saddle, solving my frontal numbness through a review by bike fit academy here on TH-cam. Without them recommending the seat for people who "roll their pelvis forward easily", I would have never found it. I think we just need educated reasoning for the seat, rather than just "YEA ITS GOOD!" We need measurements potentially.
did you try the All Season version of Conti 5000? I work with these tires, courier, they typically last around 8 months. When they fail, it's the puncture protection that goes
Hi David. Wee question can use 12 speed chainrings on 11-speed group set is three any difference in them. Upgraded my shimano ultegra R8000 crank set. ?
I think that works okay because I know people have had broken 11 speed Shimano cranks replaced with 12 speed cranks and they seem to work okay - I'm sure Shimano's official guidelines are that you can't though
I would love to see someone review the Nevi shoes. Bespoke shoes with titanium sole. They are quite expensive and since they are bespoke that might be the reason why I haven't seen anyone review it.
I still struggle with the idea of Di2 or high end stuff off road. I'm a clumsy bu99er, and have smashed a couple of rear mechs; not a big deal if it's Apex (£80), a massive desl if it's Red (£600)
Blimey !!! USE.....I used to have one of their suspension seatposts back in the mid '90's on an old Kona hardtail....used to love it....I'd love to try one of their stems though.....but I use the Redshift version on 3 of my bikes....and they're pretty expensive... Certainly tempted by a 105 groupset though to replace the excellent Tiagra on my Synapse.....Hmmmm ?
There's no link for the saddle... alloy or otherwise. Looking for the best, most economical, alloy rails saddle - I do ultra-distance riding, all terrain. Very long hours on the saddle. Any suggestions welcome. 👍🚴
Canyon shoes on a non-Canyon bike? Wouldn’t that be like Specialised shoes on a non-Specialised? I guess that’s why I always stick to specific kit brands! FWIW I ride with Northwave shoes which I love. You don’t really hear much about them on the social media channels, but they make great shoes.
What's the point of rating and select the best bike and gear if you are sponsored? Pirelli will always be better than continental tires, fifty one sika will beat tarmac sl8, cause they pay u to say that
Thanks for promoting saddle that destroys your bibs. Have it on my CFR Aeroad and it is already did this with my 1.5 bibs (MAAP are fully destroyed and Pearl Izumi have lot signs of wear) Dislike 🫠
Interesting feedback thanks for sharing, can't say I've had any issue with my Castelli kit... has it worn out the shorts in the same way? Wonder if there's something about the specific setup/angle of the saddle, maybe you're moving about a bit too much generating the wear?
I do not think I’m moving a lot especially as you know this saddle even prevents you from sliding, it’s easier to stand up a little bit and then change your position. I see that position is very nice and even but I will check again. For me it seems that material is the root cause as I read the same for some Selle Italia saddles model(s) with the same consequences. So I even thought that they were talking about mine but nope. Also probably there are some problems can arise of the type of sews and materials as for some reason cheap Chinese bibs are totally fine on this saddle 😅
Odd one though isn't it - are the shorts failing on the seams then? I'd pictured just general abrasion causing the material to sort of fluff up - but could it just be an unfortunate seam interaction with parts of the saddle? Not great when you've spent serious money on the saddle and shorts though is it
Hey David. I found gravel and refound road cycling this year, and also found your channel. It's been great, and it seems like your videos keep getting better. Thanks for all that you do, and good luck continuing to build the channel.
My favourite gear of 2024 was the 52- 14.
🤣
Personally I liked the 56 11, then for hilly courses 54 11 Then follow the Merckx answer to the do you spin an easy gear with a fast cadance or push a big gear with a low cadence? 'Push a big gear with a fast cadence'. Of course this does change to a 58+ chainring on a TT bike ;)
Thanks for videos Dave. Have bought a few items you have recommended. Happy Christmas and look forward to your content in 2025.
Awesome, thank you! and have a great Christmas
Ordered a Fizik Argo saddle a couple days ago to try against the power mirror I currently use.
Appreciate the videos and look forward to continue to watch what you bring in 2025. Happy holidays and happy new year everyone!
Just a heads up, I tried the Fizik Argo Adaptive saddle in person, and it was comfortable but the black rubber-looking lines on the saddle have a different density than the 3d printed portions of the saddle. If sensitive areas are resting on those lines, it will cause pain and discomfort. I kept my S-Works Power Pro Mirror saddles for this reason, but those have a tendency to push your hips forward if it doesn’t fit you correctly.
TLDR: Don’t buy a saddle before trying it out for yourself in person, or purchase from a store that allows you to try the saddle for a fairly substantial amount of time.
I was just about to search for a new saddle and knew where to look. I have fizik bars and love the quality. You sold me on the saddle, will buy it next month. Happy Holidays David , Thanks a million for the great channel.
You won't be disappointed. The Fizik Argo is awesome. I ride the Vento R3 in 150mm. I'd recommend trying the 140mm and the 150mm.
Love my Microshift stuff and it’s serviceable put in the field on a bikepacking trip. Have both 1x and 2x
Great video. I especially like the best tire segment. I use Panaracers Gravel Kings SS tires on the road for the past two years. I have yet to have a flat, even riding through patches of glass.
12:50 Plenty of riders use Spesh shoes without riding a Spesh. Having said that, I wouldn't wear Giant or Bontrager shoes...
Because specialized have such a good dealership network.
I don't care what shoes I wear as long as I can try them on first. Same with helmets.
I have always used Spesh shoes for Mtb XC and Road,regardless of what bike. Love them.
Never had a problem with the Aldi workstand that I've used for my three bikes including two bottom bracket removals.
I have the new GRX DI2 12-speed on one of my bikes (AXS Rival on another) and I like it a lot for my purpose (winterroadrides and gravel)!
I agree with the Gravelking. I use the X1-R version in 45c. Fast rolling and light tire as mine came in at under 500g. Their only issue is that they inflate to almost 48mm on a 24 inner diameter rim. I had to sand down the side knobs of the front tire are they were rubbing against the fork when riding in out of the saddle.
great video - thanks!
Ultegra from 2015 still works great,no batteries required. Every style of battery eventually becomes obsolete.
I own the regular feedback sports stand. But I do find it a bit unstable in terms of tipping over when working on a bike.
I'm a tall person, and therefore also mount the bikes higher, and this seems to be the achilles heel.
Yes, because when loaded with a bike, its weight isn't in the center of its triangular footprint and can only be remedied with one of the legs pointing directly at you underneath the bike, but it makes this one leg a tripping hazard if you're not careful.
I personally use a Park Tool PCS-10.2, which has better weight distribution as the loaded bike is inside its triangular footprint. It also clamps almost every seatpost shape, not just round ones.
Great recommendations. I think 105 mechanical is a great recommendation. I have a feeling mechanical is being given short shrift these days. I’d buy a 105 mech groupset in a flash if it came out in silver. Silver components need to make a comeback.
Ooh silver 105 I'd be all over that, like that special GRX they did. I miss the old days of silver Shimano groupsets
good stuff; but reviews of saddles are pointless (imho) as seats are so very subjective and every person is different; really kinda wish there was a 'bike saddle trial service' :D
Agree! Seats are a nightmare. How are you supposed to shell out so much for something you're not sure will work for you?!
would be more useful if we knew other previous saddles that were a similar fit so we could make a more informed decision.
I disagree. I found my favorite saddle, solving my frontal numbness through a review by bike fit academy here on TH-cam. Without them recommending the seat for people who "roll their pelvis forward easily", I would have never found it. I think we just need educated reasoning for the seat, rather than just "YEA ITS GOOD!" We need measurements potentially.
I think there is.
I get your point, and you have a point, but I don't think it entirely disqualifies saddle reviews.
I use Polar Verity Sense for over a year now and it it's sooo much better than the chest strap. You just forget about it as soon as you put it on.
did you try the All Season version of Conti 5000? I work with these tires, courier, they typically last around 8 months. When they fail, it's the puncture protection that goes
Any plans to test a Time bike? I have their Alp d'Huez and its a pretty amazing ride
Really good looking Canyon road shoe. Too bad they have not offered that color scheme on their site.
Hi David. Wee question can use 12 speed chainrings on 11-speed group set is three any difference in them. Upgraded my shimano ultegra R8000 crank set. ?
I think that works okay because I know people have had broken 11 speed Shimano cranks replaced with 12 speed cranks and they seem to work okay - I'm sure Shimano's official guidelines are that you can't though
Cheers 👍
The chanline is wider for the 12 speed drivetrain, so it may not be ideal. But anything is possible🤷🏾♂️🤪
Good video and fair assessments of the kit but could you include price next time please?
I would love to see someone review the Nevi shoes.
Bespoke shoes with titanium sole.
They are quite expensive and since they are bespoke that might be the reason why I haven't seen anyone review it.
I still struggle with the idea of Di2 or high end stuff off road. I'm a clumsy bu99er, and have smashed a couple of rear mechs; not a big deal if it's Apex (£80), a massive desl if it's Red (£600)
I like my Feedback stand, but working on bikes with aero seatposts gets 'interesting' unless you have a Silca Hirobel frame clamp
Agree, and also being looking at one of those Silca frame clamps, or a way to do a homemade version
Blimey !!! USE.....I used to have one of their suspension seatposts back in the mid '90's on an old Kona hardtail....used to love it....I'd love to try one of their stems though.....but I use the Redshift version on 3 of my bikes....and they're pretty expensive...
Certainly tempted by a 105 groupset though to replace the excellent Tiagra on my Synapse.....Hmmmm ?
Which of the Fizik Argo models is the best alloy saddle...? Any clues...
There's no link for the saddle... alloy or otherwise. Looking for the best, most economical, alloy rails saddle - I do ultra-distance riding, all terrain. Very long hours on the saddle. Any suggestions welcome. 👍🚴
Favero Assioma Duo > any other PM pedal
Canyon shoes on a non-Canyon bike? Wouldn’t that be like Specialised shoes on a non-Specialised? I guess that’s why I always stick to specific kit brands! FWIW I ride with Northwave shoes which I love. You don’t really hear much about them on the social media channels, but they make great shoes.
I used to ride Spesh shoes on a Cannondale. Never bothered me.
What's the point of rating and select the best bike and gear if you are sponsored? Pirelli will always be better than continental tires, fifty one sika will beat tarmac sl8, cause they pay u to say that
Thanks for promoting saddle that destroys your bibs. Have it on my CFR Aeroad and it is already did this with my 1.5 bibs (MAAP are fully destroyed and Pearl Izumi have lot signs of wear)
Dislike 🫠
Interesting feedback thanks for sharing, can't say I've had any issue with my Castelli kit... has it worn out the shorts in the same way? Wonder if there's something about the specific setup/angle of the saddle, maybe you're moving about a bit too much generating the wear?
I do not think I’m moving a lot especially as you know this saddle even prevents you from sliding, it’s easier to stand up a little bit and then change your position.
I see that position is very nice and even but I will check again. For me it seems that material is the root cause as I read the same for some Selle Italia saddles model(s) with the same consequences. So I even thought that they were talking about mine but nope.
Also probably there are some problems can arise of the type of sews and materials as for some reason cheap Chinese bibs are totally fine on this saddle 😅
Odd one though isn't it - are the shorts failing on the seams then? I'd pictured just general abrasion causing the material to sort of fluff up - but could it just be an unfortunate seam interaction with parts of the saddle? Not great when you've spent serious money on the saddle and shorts though is it