Fizik is doubling down on old-school weight savings with a new, stripped-back R1 Light saddle range—proof that not every performance leap needs to come from a 3D printer. The new lineup trims roughly 17% off the weight of Fizik’s previous R1 saddles by going minimalist: fewer layers, leaner padding, and a focus on only what performance riders actually need.
At a time when much of the saddle world has leaned heavily into complex 3D-printed lattice structures, Fizik’s latest move is a reminder that traditional construction. When done well, can still deliver meaningful gains. The R1 Light range combines proven materials from Fizik’s existing top-tier saddles into a new architecture for riders chasing low weight, responsiveness, and long-ride efficiency.
Back-to-Basics
At the core of the R1 Light platform is a carbon-reinforced nylon shell. Fizik paired this with ultra-stiff carbon rails and a thin layer of raw EVA foam padding. By ditching unnecessary layers and excess material, Fizik creates a low-profile saddle that maintains its ergonomic shape while shaving grams.
The result is a saddle built around the essentials: a minimal carbon structure, reactive EVA cushioning, and nothing extra. Fizik says the setup delivers support and comfort for long, fast days without sacrificing stiffness or road feedback.
According to Fizik Brand Manager Alex Locatelli, the goal was clear: combine decades of saddle experience into a traditionally made, high-performance product that works across a wide range of riding styles, without overcomplicating things.
Three Classic Shapes
Rather than reinventing its lineup, Fizik applies the new R1 Light construction to three of its most established saddle shapes, each tuned for a different rider and position.
Tempo Aliante R1 Light
First launched more than 20 years ago, the Aliante built its reputation on long-distance comfort and a waved profile that supports endurance riders. The new R1 Light version keeps that DNA intact, adding raw EVA padding, carbon rails, and a pressure-relieving cutout to create a lighter endurance-focused saddle for all-day rides.
- 145mm – 144g
- 155mm – 148g
Vento Argo R1 Light
Argo has become Fizik’s most versatile modern shape, and in Vento form it’s aimed squarely at racing. The R1 Light version pairs the short-nose, aggressive profile with minimalist padding and carbon rails, making it a natural fit for race bikes with steep angles and forward positions.
- 140mm – 149g
- 150mm – 154g
Vento Antares R1 Light
A mainstay of the pro peloton for decades, the Antares has earned wins across every Grand Tour. The R1 Light version refines its streamlined shape with a tapered nose-to-wing transition, lightweight EVA padding, and carbon rails for a responsive, race-ready feel.
- 140mm – 122g
- 150mm – 123g
Pricing & Availability
All three R1 Light saddles are priced identically, regardless of model or width:
- €199 / $229.99 / £199.99
Fizik notes that the listed weights fall within a ±3% tolerance, standard for lightweight saddle construction.
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