Hello guys.

I'm after a new saddle since the ones I tried from Specialized didn't really fit me (they gave me either sore sitbones or numbness). I've tried Specialized Riva 143, Toupe Expert 143, Romin Expert 143 and Romin Expert 155. I sat briefly on an Avatar 143 (no Gel) and although I liked the padding on my sitbones, I felt great pressure on my perineum and rejected it. I did the sit-bone width test and the fitter said I fall between 143 and 155, depending on my posture. My bike is a Specialized Secteur (relaxed geometry) and the handlebars are almost level with the saddle.

I'm still heavy (230+ lbs) so the ones with minimal padding feel like sitting on nails especially after 30 miles or so when my legs get tired. I went through the saddle selector tool on Specialized's website and it recommended Avatar Comp Gel for me (probably 155mm wide). I will give this one a try but I'd like to hear if it ever actually worked for a Clydesdale.

I'm also considering Selle Italia Max Flite Gel Flow because it is a best seller, it has great reviews, they say it works well for larger/heavier guys, it has an elastomer suspension, its cover is made from natural leather, it is available in white and it costs only 10 bucks more in Europe.

Has any of the above models worked for you fellow Clydesdales? What has been comfortable for you in a relaxed geometry fit?