Originally Posted by
koala logs
Forward adjusted saddle actually favors steep climbs.
A better test is to compare the times on your longest rides (preferrably >4 hrs) with a balanced mix of climbing and flats.
Many riders will have arm and shoulder issues with forward slammed saddle doing long rides on the flats. But the same forward slammed saddle will have superior comfort and power in climbs. Many hill climb Pros have forward slammed tilted down saddles which is best for steep climb races. It's comfortable and delivers superior power on steep climbs but can be quite uncomfortable to ride on the flats.
If you ride mostly in the mountains or barely a flat section, then a forward slammed saddle might actually be the best option for you.
Here is the thing, I doubt there is any way in the world for me to gain 5 % even with the best coach and hardest work. A fit might get me 2% and I would be giddy with that. I cannot see how some random 4 hour ride could discern such a small improvement. OTOH, I know my PD curve very, very well and hills do not lie. Thus, there is less energy expending going slowly up a hill in the heat.