Sit better: New Ergon SMS saddle for modern mountain bike geometries tested
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New relief concept for modern MTB geometries
With the SMS lineup, Ergon is launching a new mountain bike saddle series that responds specifically to the changing geometries of modern mountain bikes. The development follows the trend towards steeper seat angles and a more upright riding position, which have become standard on modern mountain bikes. The concept centres on effective pressure relief in the seat area to prevent numbness and increase riding comfort. The saddle is aimed at trail bikers, all-mountain and touring riders who ride both conventional mountain bikes and e-MTBs and prioritise performance and comfort. The compact shape with a shortened, flat saddle nose should also provide more freedom of movement and ensure noticeable relief, especially in the front saddle area.
>> Bicycle saddles in the test: From Tour to Race - 20 MTB saddles in laboratory and practical tests
>> Bicycle saddles in the test: From Tour to Race - 20 MTB saddles in laboratory and practical tests
Optimised Y-shape for even pressure distribution
The centrepiece of the new SMS saddle is the enlarged relief channel, which ensures more effective pressure reduction in the sensitive perineal area. Despite the generously dimensioned relief channel, the optimised Y-shape of the saddle and the special curvature of the surface are designed to distribute the seat pressure evenly. Support is provided specifically via the sit bones, which should increase comfort, especially on longer rides. The shortened nose and the compact overall shape of the saddle are specially designed for the modern, more central riding position on the bike. Cushioning and pressure distribution is provided by the so-called Orthopedic Comfort Foam, a special foam which, according to Ergon, is intended to provide relief in the perineal area (for men) or other sensitive regions thanks to its cushioning properties.
Availability and model variants
The first two models in the new SMS series are already available from specialist retailers. These are the SMS Sport Men with a recommended retail price of 79.95 euros and the SMS Comp Men for 99.95 euros. Both models have a nylon composite seat shell, a TiNox frame and a microfibre surface. The difference between the model variants lies in the features and workmanship. Ergon offers the saddles in two different sizes: S/M for a sit bone distance of 8-12 cm and M/L also for a sit bone distance of 12-16 cm. According to the manufacturer, further model variants and specific women's saddles will follow at the beginning of 2026. All products are manufactured in Europe, which Ergon emphasises as a sign of quality.
Ergon SMS Sport Men / Comp Men - Info
- Application: All-mountain/trail, enduro, cross-country/marathon, MTB touring, E-MTB
- Seat shell: nylon composite
- Frame: TiNox
- Surface: Microfibre
- Padding: Orthopedic Comfort Foam
- Sizes: S/M (sit bone distance 8-12 cm), M/L (sit bone distance 12-16 cm)
- Price: 79.95 euros (SMS Sport Men) / 99.95 euros (SMS Comp Men) >> available here
- Manufacture: Made in Europe
Ergon SMS Comp Men - first ride impression
We have already been able to test the new Ergon saddle in the Comp version extensively in the Dolomites and have the SMS on the test-winning bike from the last light all-mountain test, the Propain Sresh SL 1 CFOnce on the Sella Ronda in a clockwise direction and once anti-clockwise. After a good five hours in the saddle, one thing is clear: the concept of the new SLS Comp works. Even on long climbs, there was no unpleasant pressure in the perineal area - this is where the large cut-out really comes into its own. Even at the edges of the cut-out, which is a particularly critical area on many perforated saddles, we did not notice any increased pressure.
However, if you are used to short rides and are looking for a comfortable saddle for a quick tour after work, you won't find it here. We would describe the padding as sporty and firm and recommend the SMS Comp more for well-established bikers.
The slightly shorter saddle nose, on the other hand, was also unproblematic on steeper climbs. Thanks to the more compact riding position on modern bikes with a steep seat angle, it is no longer necessary to slide extremely far forwards. The saddle nose is sufficiently wide and offers a healthy level of comfort. On the descent, the rider has more freedom of movement thanks to the slightly shorter design.
