Received a new saddle today, to replace a defective Brooks, which is notorious for its short rails.

To my considerable surprise the new saddle (which is probably positioned further back) appears to have a significant impact of my power. I would usually measure 125W on average (according to a Stages PM). Today it increased by a full third to 169W (??!!). Might be psychological (new saddle, hey! let's pedal!), or physiological (better position over the spindles).

It should be obvious already -- I am not a racer, not even an roadie. This is a touring bike, and I wear sandals over platform pedals.

If someone has an explanation, please share. I'd read somewhere that fore-aft positioning had an impact on power, but I was assuming negligible unless your were in the business of racing.