Fizik’s Transiro Mistica has long been a favourite of 220 reviewers in its numerous guises, so I was intrigued to see how the brand's new Transiro Aeris Long Distance R1 performed.
The saddle was announced at the same time as the brand's new triathon-specific Transiro Hydra Aeroweave Carbon shoes, which scored highly in our testing and bodes well for the saddle.
Shape and weight
Let's first look at the saddle's shape. It has a slimmed-down appearance compared to the Mistica (read our review in our list of the best triathlon saddles), with a central cut-out that runs from the tip of the nose to just past halfway towards the back.
A carbon-infused nylon shell and oversized carbon rails, along with the lightweight padding, bring the total weight down to 202g.
That’s impressive, and even more so as that includes the handy bottle-cage attachment at the rear. The saddle is 135mm at its widest point, the nose width is 55mm and it’s 242mm in length.
What's the design like?
Fizik claims the split-nose construction ‘allows for an unprecedented pressure-relief system’, with extra support at the front – where triathletes will spend most of their time – and slimmer padding at the back for a firmer feel when you need to ease out of your aero tuck.
Fizik’s aim with the Aeries Long Distance R1 is supreme pressure relief and support for long hours riding in an aggressive position, while also making it strong enough to withstand plenty of abuse.
Unlike ISM’s saddles, which have two completely independent ‘claws’ at the front to act as the nose, this saddle has a rail loop connecting the split-nose to provide the strength and rigidity needed to avoid any ‘asymmetrical fatigue’.
It also conveniently acts as a hook for holding your bike steady in the transition area.
How comfortable is it?
On the road, you instantly feel at home perched on the nose, and the cover is tacky enough to hold you in position without feeling like you’re slipping out of place.
The shape and design do a similar job to an ISM saddle but with much less bulk, and the reduced width compared to an ISM means it’ll be better suited to those with a narrower pedalling stance who ride aggressively.
The back of the saddle is indeed firmer, but perfectly comfortable for long periods sat back if that’s your
cup of tri tea.
I experienced no soreness or numbness on my test rides, and for comfort, only Selle Italia’s vastly more expensive Watt 3D Kit Carbonio Superflow matches it.
That rear attachment is also cleverly designed to securely hold your bottle at a lower angle than most rear hydration systems, making it that bit easier to dismount your bike.
Leggy long-course triathletes who may feel less flexible as they dismount in T2 will appreciate this.
Fizik Transiro Aeris Long Distance R1 verdict
All in all, I was blown away by the Transiro Aeris Long Distance R1.
Many triathletes from age-groupers to elite will appreciate its low weight and superb comfort and pressure relief. It’s also bedecked with bonus features.
Yes, £189.99 is still a lot of money, but it’s good value compared to other high-end options in its category.
If your sit bones agree with its size and shape and you’re well fitted to your triathlon bike, this is an excellent tri-specific saddle that’ll help you through a long-distance race and beyond, without having to worry about rear discomfort.
Verdict: Super comfortable, competitively priced and lots of tri-specific features.
Score: 92%
