With the introduction of the SHIV in 2012, Specialized was the first of the big 3 cycling manufacturers to introduce a triathlon-specific frame. Specialized continues to innovate in tri-specific market in 2013 with the introduction of a new TT/triathlon-specific saddle, the Sitero. Tririg, Slowtwitchand BikeRadar all took a good look at the Sitero, and liked what they saw.

While the Sitero (Sit + Aero) looks quite a bit different from the Adamo and Dash saddles we’ve become accustomed to, looks can be deceiving. At first glance the Sitero slightly resembles an Adamo saddle. However, instead of a split nose, it features a deep channel that runs almost the length of the saddle.

Lengthwise, the Sitero measurements are similar to those of an Adamo road at 240mm. The Sitero’s maximum width comes to 145mm (60mm at the nose compared to 57mm for the Adamo Road). Specialized offers the Sitero in both a Pro-level ($225/211g – SlowTwitch) and an Expert-level ($175/roughly 50g more – TriRig). The major difference between the two is the introduction of carbon rails versus titanium. Both versions feature small dotted perforations along the areas where Specialized intends your sit-bones to rest. Specialized believes very strongly that this new design is superior to other split-nose designs in that the shape, channel, and perforations will help the rider achieve a position with the least amount of pressure on the front of the saddle (a claim we look forward to verifying).

One of the most interesting features of the Sitero is the choice of accessories that can be mounted to it. While most other saddles require you to purchase a third party product to attach to your saddle, Specialized created two separate accessories that integrate into the saddle itself. The first is a hook that can be used to easily mount your bike in transition (much like the rear of an Adamo Road). Additionally, Specialized created a single bottle mount as well. Both come included with the purchase of the Sitero.

Our only concern with the Sitero is the choice to go with a proprietary set of accessories in conjunction with shortened rails. While Tririg sees this as a concern due to a greater lack of available fit positions, we also see this as a possible way of deterring the use third party products. Based on the images, we suspect that most of XLAB’s (and other companies) wings will have some difficulty fitting easily on the rails. Kudos to Specialized for creating options to ensure that athletes can still use some form of rear hydration. However, those who wish to carry more may find issues. With that said, we can be sure that XLAB and others will find solutions.

Here at AG we are excited to see Specialized getting into the Tri saddle market. The introduction of more options only continues to spur innovation in the market. We think the Sitero’s design shows some real promise and are very much looking forward to getting it on to a test bike.