Striking a balance between comfort and race performance is no easy for bicycle saddle makers. Selle Italia has the longest and most effective history of developing such saddle options. The Novus Kit Carbonio Flow L Saddle is a great example. At a claimed weight of 190 grams, this a is lightweight platform that supports medium range width sitbones. The shape and structure of the Novus Flow L favors that personal structure type, in a rider with average pelvic rotation, making this an L2 in Selle Italia's ID Match system. The flatter back half of the saddle is shaped for power transfer and energy return, while the graduated, slightly wider, lowered curve nose is designed to allow the rider to pull forward for max power when needed without sacrificing skin or stability. The performance is clear. The balance towards comfort comes from the technologies and materials used to build the Novus Kit Carbonio Flow L Saddle.

The 146mm width of the L model saddle (large), hits in the right places, while somehow feeling more substantial. The shell is the foundation of the seating system, with a carbon/nylon matrix material that is resilient to use, but has a slight give that eases the ride but also keeps contact with the rider under load, mitigating impacts and helping with the natural body movement that comes with hard pedaling action. The shell is both augmented and supported by the 7x9mm oval CarboKeramic rails. On top of the shell a moderate amount of dense padding supports and cushions the ride. For durability, smooth feel, and sharp looks, a synthetic FibraTek cover carries the Selle Italia banner and design. Scuff guards protect the saddle wings for good measure.

The Flow designation refers to the pressure relieving cut-out in the center. For the Novus Kit Carbonio Flow L Saddle this channel is medium width, but still useful. The designers created edges that are curved and padded, so the transitions are subtle and don't cause friction or pressure points. Selle Italia offers this Large size is available as a 146mm wide by 278mm length. If the design and features interest you but you require a narrower version, a Small size is offered in the 137mm wide, 275mm length set-up. Both sizes are offered in both black and white color covers.