Since its launch in 1999, the SLR has become a staple in the peloton and a key component for some of the fastest cyclists in the world. Now in its fourth generation, we take a look at the origins of this iconic saddle and the technologies that make this generation so special.
1999: Gen 1 – The Birth of the SLR
The original SLR had an instant impact when it was released in 1999, thanks to its lightweight approach to racing saddles that hadn’t been seen before – the SLR tipped the scales at 135g, while competitors on the market weighed 180-190g. Grams were also shed by using a narrower profile and lightweight padding for a minimal design that the SLR would continue to follow. The SLR quickly caught the eye of elite riders and was raced at some of the most important races on the planet.
2010: Gen 2 – Ergonomics and Superflow
In 2010, Gen 2 focused on making elite ergonomics and performance accessible to more riders by offering the SLR in two sizes (130mm and 145mm widths). This was also the first appearance of the Superflow cut-out, a design that relieves pressure on the perineum, and one that would be seen on all following SLR saddles. This was also the first time we introduced the lateral wing, which provided improved stability and a striking look.
2018: Gen 3 – Short Saddle Revolution
By 2018, short saddles dominated the market. Gen 3 SLR, known as SLR Boost, responded to this new demand from riders by reducing the length to 248mm, down from 275mm. The two width options and the Superflow cut-out were huge favourites with riders at this point, so they remained on this model, but longer adjustment rails were introduced to allow for precise positioning.
The SLR Boost also experienced the introduction of the 3D printing technology, for the first time in the Selle Italia saddle range.
2025: The New 4th Generation SLR
The latest SLR saddle is an evolution built on decades of research and success that has been reimagined with new technologies. This is our most advanced saddle yet, using data from over 100,000 idmatch bike fittings. The data allowed us to identify what areas on a saddle are essential and where we can remove any unnecessary padding, resulting in a streamlined design that is just 2mm longer than the UCI’s minimum 242mm length. Each SLR saddle is also available in two widths: S3 at 130mm wide and L3 at 145mm wide.
The third generation SLR introduced 3D printed technology to the range, which has now been refined for this generation. The SLR 3D Carbon is the lightest 3D printed saddle on the market (137g – 143g), thanks to the use of advanced Carbon DLS technology. A proprietary 3D printed pattern, exclusively designed by Selle Italia engineers, combined with carbon rails and an improved angle, makes this the ultimate 3D printed saddle for cyclists at the peak of their career. The SLR 3D Elite (172g – 178g) opts for lightweight tubular steel rails, giving riders who prioritise compliance and comfort an option without sacrificing weight or 3D technology.
For riders who prefer traditionally padded saddles instead of 3D printed padding, there are three saddles in the latest generation: SLR Carbon, SLR Elite, and SLR Advan. These saddles are built on the foundation of our higher end models, but use different technologies that make the SLR suitable for a wide range of riders.
The SLR Carbon (118g – 122g) uses handmade padding instead of a 3D printed lattice, but keeps all the other cutting edge technologies of the SLR 3D Carbon, including the state-of-the-art carbon layup that makes this saddle light yet strong. The SLR Elite (170g – 172g) pairs a carbon shell with lightweight tubular steel rails, giving this saddle a fantastic weight-to-performance ratio that absorbs vibrations from the road, while also keeping the weight as low as 170g. Our most accessible saddle in this range is the SLR Advan, which is available with or without the Superflow cut out (188g – 190g, 205g – 207g). The Advan uses tubular steel rails, a carbon shell, and the proven SLR design to create a saddle that’s just as comfortable on weekend rides with friends as it is at the starting line of your first races.
Explore our range of SLR saddles, find your perfect match, and see why this saddle is so iconic.
