DPV Titan Triathlon Short Open Fit Carbon Saddle
One of the most important components for the performance and also the riding experience is always the saddle. This is the main point of contact between the cyclist and the bike, hence its importance, how it is built and what kind of support it provides.
On this occasion, we had the opportunity to test just that, a saddle and a really special one at that. It is the DPV Titan Triathlon Short Open Carbon model. This saddle is an evolution that the DPV brand has carried out of its more traditional saddles. Specifically, the evolution or special feature of this model is that it is shorter than average and with a really worked contact surface, all to provide us with a specific performance and comfort.
Shorter, more comfortable
As we say, the main feature of this model of DPV saddle is that it is shorter than the average of what conventional cycling saddles measure. Without going any further, the traditional DPV models are about 4 cm longer, 280 mm compared to the 244 mm of this Titan Triathlon we tested.
However, this shorter length is also accompanied by a widening of what is called the nose or tip of the saddle. In this way, the length of one of the most annoying areas of the saddle, such as its tip, is reduced, but at the same time it is widened, so that it becomes more stable and allows to better distribute the weight and pressure of our body, favouring comfort.
And what is it for?
The fact of having a shorter tip, therefore, less annoying when we lean forward on the bike, but at the same time wider and more stable, with better distribution of our weight on the saddle, makes this DPV Titan Triathlon Carbon more comfortable. Also contributing to this fact is the saddle’s central channel, which reduces pressure in the perineal and central area. This benefits us precisely when we adopt an aggressive position, leaning very far forward, when we ride a bike.
For this reason, this saddle is especially for any rider who adopts aero or aggressive positions on the bike, with a significant inclination of the body towards the handlebars.
Extra technology
In addition to the shortening of its structure, which we have already mentioned, we must highlight the use of some technologies that end up giving an even better performance, which achieves its short and wide tip.
On the one hand, the AirFoam, the material that makes padding or padding, with a really optimal density, light, but with a good level of absorption when sitting and distribute the weight of our body. We also like the grainy surface of the saddle, especially at the back of the seat surface, which improves the grip and adherence between the saddle and the saddle, preventing sliding during pedalling.
Another aspect that we like, as we think it contributes to the good feeling of the saddle, is the ArchTech Suspension. It consists of the structure underneath the saddle cover. An arc-shaped structure oriented convexly towards the seat area, if we look at it from the back of the saddle and that allows the contact surface with our body of the seat is not deformed, which we assume therefore a firm support and efficiently distributes the pressure of our weight. This version of the DPV Titan Triathlon Carbon, by the way, uses carbon rails, a material that is not only lighter but also more vibration-absorbing.
Sensations
Although we assume that a saddle is a component whose performance and recommendation is subject to the specific morphological characteristics of each individual, we can only recommend, in general, the use of this saddle, as its sensations in our test days have been outstanding.
Indeed, on it, we immediately notice that, when adopting an aggressive position on the handlebars, gripping the lower curve on a road handlebar, for example, we notice a good comfort in the perineal and genital area, which does not occur in the same way with longer saddles.
The lower pressure on the front part of the saddle and greater stability, allows us to pedal better, even with a greater feeling of power and for longer periods of time supported in that area further forward. We also liked the fact that all of its edges are quite curved and rounded. This prevents the saddle from damaging us in the event of a fall or, for example, if we move in front of or behind it on a technical mountain bike. Although the saddle is called Triathlon, we believe that it can be equally interesting to use it for road cycling, triathlon or mountain biking, as long as, as a user, you take advantage of sitting on the front of the saddle.
Final veredict
A very interesting and recommendable saddle for triathletes, road cyclists or mountain bikers who usually resort to the support in the front part of the saddle. That is, for those who opt for a more racing use of their bike. Also, for those who often suffer from pressure and discomfort in the perineal and genital area in their support with the saddle.
It will also be appreciated by those looking for a lightweight saddle, because thanks to its carbon rails and light padding, this DPV Titan Triathlon Short weighs, on our scale, 211g.
Pros
Comfort in inclined positions on the bike, absorption and stability.
Lightness
Value for money
Cons
Lacking a specific version for the female anatomy
Technical Data
Brand
Model
Titan Triathlon Short Open-Fit
Description
Short saddle, 244 mm long, with anti-prostatic central channel, AirFoam padding and ArchTech structure. Carbon rails.
Measurements:
244 mm x 148 mm
Colours available
Black
Weight
211 g
More info here