WTB Updates Two Of Our Favorite Saddles Mountain Bike Saddles

At Sea Otter, WTB launched a new gravel saddle and a dedicated e-bike saddle with an integrated handle. Now, WTB is launching refreshed versions of two of its most popular saddles. The updated Silverado and Volt feature new aesthetics, slightly revised profiles to improve rider comfort, and WTB’s new Fusion Form technology.

“The Silverado and Volt have gone nearly unchanged since their introductions over a decade ago and their widespread prevalence on bikes today is proof that unrivaled comfort is a timeless achievement. When it came time to update them, we needed to be certain the new versions would further build upon the comfort of their tried-and-true predecessors. We dissected every minute detail of the original designs, refined them wherever feedback was deemed necessary, and created countless samples in the process. In the end, thousands of hours of on-trail testing confirm the Silverado and Volt are simply better in every way” – WTB

WTB Silverado: Flater and shorter

WTB relied on pressure mapping technology was used to determine where pinpoint pressures existed on the original Silverado and determined how to distribute those pressures to the sit bones better. The result is a slightly flatter profile that further reduces perineal pressure. The new Silverado also features a shorter, 265mm length to provide seamless on-off transitions, while still providing plenty of room for riders to slide forward and maximize power output on steep climbs. Shorter saddles allow people to achieve a more forward-leaning riding position without interference from the nose of the saddle. The updated Silverado is also available in a traditional wrapped-and-stapled version in medium (142mm) width and steel or cromoly rails to provide similar comfort at more affordable prices.

WTB Volt: New Looks; Same Shape

The Volt is WTB’s best-selling saddle. According to WTB, more than one million riders have depended on the comfort of the Volt. The company’s goal was to refresh the look of the Volt, while still retaining its soul. As with the Silverado, WTB relied on pressure mapping technology to ensure the comfort and shape of the Volt stayed the same while giving it a modern look. now with a new look made possible by Fusion Form.

Fusion Form 

Both updated saddles, along with the Gravelier and Devo launched this spring at Sea Otter, feature WTB’s new Fusion Form technology. What is Fusion Form, you ask? Fusion Form is a manufacturing process used by WTB to adjust the amount of fiber infused into the nylon of each specific saddle model to create a flex profile that balances comfort, support, and durability to match the intended use of each individual saddle.

The Silverado optimizes efficiency in a forward-leaning pedaling position by using high fiber percentage similar to the recently released Gravelier saddle. The updated Volt base features less fiber to increase flex and improve comfort for mountain bike riders who tend to pedal in a more upright position. Fusion Form also allows the padding to be recessed into the base, which provides a sleek aesthetic without actually reducing overall padding thickness. According to WTB, this process results in the same comfort riders have come to know and love with the brand’s traditional wrapped-and-stapled saddles, but with a clean new look.

Now Featuring an Integrated Tool Mount

Most Fusion Form saddles provide an integrated mount on the underside of the base for securing tools and on-bike storage. The mount is compatible with saddle accessories made by existing brands but stay tuned for a variety of WTB accessories as well. Devo is the only Fusion Form saddle that doesn’t feature a mount but instead offers an incredibly useful handle for transporting and lifting e-bikes.

Price, Weight and Availability

The updated Fusion Form version of the Silverado is available in a narrow (133mm) or medium (142mm) width, while the new Volt is available in a medium (142mm) width.

Silverado 265 Weight Range: 187g (133mm width + carbon rails) – TBD (142mm width + cromoly)

Volt Weight Range: 174g (142mm width + carbon rails) – TBD (142mm width + cromoly)

All WTB saddles are priced solely according to their rail material rather than by product family. Available saddle rail material options vary depending on the saddle, but MSRP remains the same for each rail material. MSRP is $47.95 for steel, $95.95 for chromoly, $119.95 for stainless, $142.95 for titanium, and $249.95 for carbon.

Can’t wait to get your hands (or buns) on one? Good news…they’re available now! Visit www.wtb.com for more information.

Are you ready to hit the trail? Check out our Guide to the Best Mountain Bike Saddles.