I chose this saddle for a new bike build and I'm not fully convinced that I made the right choice. Using the flexibility model from Fi'zik I come out on the snake end (highly flexible), but I thought it wise to go with something in the middle, which they call Chameleon. So far, I've put about 85 miles in this saddle and I can't get used to a pinching sensation, which I think comes from edges of the pressure relief channel. This is nothing severely uncomfortable, but still annoying. As for construction, weight, looks, etc., this is Fi'zik and so it is top notch in all those areas. I'll give it another few rides and then make a decision - there could just be a break in period that I need to get through.
Being very pleased with the original fi'zik Antares saddle, I was surprised when the shell cracked in two across the middle of the width on a club ride. Granted, I was approaching mile 10,000 on this bike, which was a little over 3 years old. The saddle was the original on the bike. I got the new Antares Versus as a replacement for that saddle, trusting that the break was just a freaky fluke. As far as fear of the same thing happening again is concerned, I actually trust this new design a little more. It seems stronger and the tunnel design just might take the pressure of my weight (164 lbs.) and distribute it more evenly - reducing the risk for another shell snap. The tunnel design actually results in a greater feeling of lightness on the bike, too - different than a cut-out design, both of which have the same anatomic goal. So - there's a great two for one! When considering a new saddle, I also did not want to give up the Integrated Clip System by fi'zik, with which the separately purchased compatible saddle bag clips into the back of the saddle, eliminating the need for straps. Finally, the look of this saddle is very cool. It has a very stealth design, which compliments my newer road bike to a T. By the way, my other road bike also has an original Antares saddle with many miles on it. No shell snaps yet, so please do not let concern of such a thing keep you from the great updated design of the Antares Versus. I would recommend this saddle to anyone.
Have been a recreational roadie for 20 years, and have tried many different saddles in my quest to find the perfect one. The Antares Versus saddle is the closest to perfect I've found. The pressure relief channel is just deep enough, the platform is just wide enough for my sits bones, and this saddle is very comfortable, even after long rides. I'll be enjoying my rides much more now.
I'm still hunting for the right saddle. I tried this but liked the Arione much better - more positions and a softer angle in the back. I do like the channel/groove, but cut-outs are more effective.
