When Fizik introduced the Arione in 2000, the cycling world sat down- and took notice. The Arione was a game changer in a world of: hard or soft, wide or narrow. The Arione was more than just different, it pushed into a new paradigm. A saddle that supported, encouraged a number of seating positions, yet offered some flex and give, and still delivered power. Sure, it wasn't for everyone, but many riders fell in love with it. That loves goes on today. As Fizik has introduced new technologies and materials, riders have great options just within the Arione line. The R5 basically replaces the Arione CX, perhaps the most popular version of the saddle due to its slightly stiffer shell material and Microtex cover. At just 205 grams, the R5 employs a new Carbon Reinforced Wing-Flex shell and the Microtex cover.

The Arione falls into the Snake category within Fizik's Spine Concept, recommending riders have full flexibility from the hip (touch hands to the ground when bent at the waist). Our experience riding and selling this saddle is that many riders of different body types will enjoy the Arione. As with all Arione's the R5 Kium provides a dynamic seating area, affording the rider the opportunity to move fore and aft depending on need and comfort. The longer rails of the design give you substantial adjustment on the seatpost as well. This saddle delivers a consistent feel and flex for thousands of riding hours. Many top pro's still prefer the Kium rail version for vibration absorption and impact mitigation, and here at Excel many of our cyclists agree.