Specialized Power Arc Pro saddle review
Designed to provide comfort for both men and women, the Power Arc comes in three spec levels, two widths, and several colors.
What is it
Building on Specialized‘s popular Power saddle line, the Power Arc Pro shape differs from the original with a rounded, more peaked cross-section. Still present are the large cutout and short overall length.
Pros
- Great option for riders who didn’t get along with original Power saddle
- Offered in 143mm and 155mm widths, and black and red colors
- Compatible with SWAT storage
Cons
- No one saddle is perfect for everyone
- Shorter length limits positions for those who like to move around
Mtbr’s Take
A while back I reviewed Specialized’s original Power Pro saddle and liked it quite a bit. But eventually it came off my bike because the flat overall shape, and its sharply defined edges, began to rub me the wrong way. Enter the Power Arc Pro. It addressed what became an issue for me by rounding the overall shape of the original. Still present are the large central cutout and its short overall length. But its new domed shape allows my thighs to glide over it without any chafing.
Specialized’s Power Arc builds on the popular Power saddle, adding a rounded cross-section to suit more riders.
The Power Arc is offered in several versions. The S-Works Power Arc has carbon fiber rails and will set you back a whopping $300. The Pro version, reviewed here, has hollow titanium rails, a carbon fiber shell, and Specialized’s Level 2 medium density foam padding for $200. I rode the narrower 143mm width, but a 155mm option is also available. Black saddles never go out of fashion, but if you like to buck tradition, Specialized gives you the option of a red Power Arc as well.
If you’re looking to save a few bucks (who isn’t?) the Power Arc Expert is $130, offered in the same two widths, three colors, and with a plastic shell in lieu of the carbon. It retains the titanium rails and Level 2 padding.
The large cutout, short overall length, and wide rear section are carried over from the original Power saddle. Note the rounded arc of the rear section.
All three models feature a shell with a pair of threaded inserts at the rear of the saddle. These are mounts for SWAT storage options that include Specialized Road and Mountain Bandits. They bolt on and carry an inner tube, tire lever, CO2 cartridge, and inflator.
Like on the original Power saddle, the Power Arc is designed to be ridden slightly nose down. I used the saddle on a gravel bike as well as my mountain bike. I found that I rode it a bit more leveled out. This kept me from sliding off the front but didn’t produce any uncomfortable pressure on the nose.
SWAT storage mounts can be found on the underside of the carbon fiber shell.
The cover of the black Power Arc Pro has perforations at the rear and a satin finish that keeps you from sliding around without being stuck in place. As with the original Power saddle, I really appreciate the large cutout. For most of my cycling career, I never rode a cutout saddle, but once I made the switch it’s hard to go back.
I’m happy to see Specialized build out the Power line of saddles. The new rounded profile of the Arc is a very welcome addition for this rider. While no single saddle will work for every cyclist, the Power Arc shows how small changes can have a big impact on saddle comfort.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 
Price: $200
More Info: www.specialized.com
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