SUTURE GRAVEL BIKE SADDLE
// adjustable width and body-conforming gravel bike saddle
FIT Sport Design Award Winner 2024 - cycling
https://fitdesignawards.com/winners/fit/2024/254/0/
A sport product design specific honor awarded by a jury of industry professionals and esteemed educators.
A rotating rail design adjusts the width of the sit bone area of the saddle, which is measured and set in place via a tube with measurements that slides up and down, clampable with a 7mm hex bolt. No width change in the seat rails or alternative attachment method means this seat functions with all leading seat posts.
Durable fabric with direct 3D printed hexagonal overlays are inspired by tortoise shell plates and sutures, flexing with a finite range of motion before pressing together and becoming rigid. This allows the bike seat to conform well to the shape of the body before stiffening for maximum power transfer and long-term comfort.
An open middle and indented nose keeps breathability and comfort high for sensitive areas, while a fully independent back design allows for some level of flex during major impacts where the rider was not able to get up off of the seat. A bridge design between the rear rails further attenuates vibrations.