fi’zi:k Vento Argo R3 Saddle Review

Almost all saddle manufacturers now have a “short” model in their catalog. With the Tempo Argo and the Vento Argo that we are testing here, fi’zi:k is no exception to the rule. After a few initial unsettling rides, the expected support and comfort are definitely there.

By Sébastien Argentin and Guillaume Judas – Photos: Sébastien Argentin / DR – 3bikes.fr

The fi’zi:k Vento Argo R3 is a so-called short saddle, with a fairly wide rear, a central channel to relieve pressure on soft tissues, and a very short nose, to improve stability during effort and allow an aerodynamic and aggressive riding position.

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This type of saddle was initially designed to go against traditional saddles, which, due to their relative length, favor frequent changes in position depending on the terrain and intensity of effort. With a saddle like the Tempo or Vento Argo, the position is more fixed, to emphasize stability and thus efficiency, but also comfort thanks to a better distribution of pressure points. The shorter length allows you to lean forward at the seat, without exerting excessive pressure on the sensitive tissues of the crotch. In the case of Argo saddles, they also benefit from an ergonomic cutout that has been developed with the help of detailed pressure analysis and contributions from medical experts.

Previously known for the three relatively distinct shapes offered in its range (Arione, Antares, and Aliante), fi’zi:k now offers with the two Argo models the most versatile shape. The main difference between the two models lies in the padding foam, which is firmer and more elastic for the Vento Argo, to optimize power transfer, but also in the shape of the nose, which is slightly curved. In short, it is the “racing” saddle, available in two versions: R1 with carbon rails (180 g), and R3 with Kiüm rails (220 g), each with two choices of rear width, 140 and 150 mm.

In terms of prices, the R1 is offered at €199 and the R3 at €139.

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A delicate adjustment

A short saddle (265 mm here compared to 300 mm for an Arione, for example) and the desire to find a more efficient fit means a more delicate adjustment of the setback. But like most short saddles on the market, fi’zi:k has provided a solution with a discreet marking under the saddle that indicates where it measures 75 mm wide, which is the “theoretical” center of the seat on all saddles.

To transfer the setback from a normal saddle to the Vento Argo, you must measure the distance between the point where the saddle is 75 mm wide and a fixed point (such as the handlebars, stem, or saddle setback with a plumb line).

For the saddle’s tilt, and thus to benefit from a slightly wider rear than a traditional saddle, which here serves as a slight “backrest”, you must use a spirit level and aim for the part between the shortened nose and the 75 mm mark to be horizontal. In profile, the well-installed saddle therefore appears to dip slightly forward. But it is under this condition that you finally find the ideal fit in a speed-seeking position, and without any particular discomfort.

Very firm and sporty fit

After a few trial-and-error rides – and even some downright unsettling sensations – we began to appreciate the saddle’s firmness for power transfer. Our athletic and committed riding style particularly helps us with this.

This is the first time we’ve truly felt our sit bones as fixed points on the saddle, which gradually seems very effective to us. While we were moderately convinced at first, we now feel that we have found a real positive change in position. The adjustment still needs to be refined slightly, but the saddle seems to provide a real advantage compared to the Arione or Antares we usually use.

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Among the benefits we’ve experienced, we feel well-seated, almost locked in without being stuck, with fixed pressure points that are very present and more ease in extending the leg and spinning the gear. And yet, we felt super good on the Arione because it was “free,” with certainly few constraints on the back of the saddle (and therefore very few injuries even when riding a lot), but not always very well “screwed” at the seat for perfect power transfer. Ultimately, we can see that on our usual routes, the Vento Argo seems much better given its specificities. We find a fit well centered on the pelvis, and not on the back like the Antares, whose width is nevertheless quite similar.

We were not at all bothered by the shorter nose, which was completely transparent in terms of saddle time. In our opinion, it should have been slightly narrower, to facilitate the passage of the inner thighs when pedaling. Nothing to say about the compression of sensitive tissues on this saddle. The placement of the channel is, in our opinion, quite transparent, as long as the saddle is well adjusted in terms of its tilt. We believe that the saddle makes it easier to place the pelvis in retroversion and to have the two fixed and effective ischial support points, while alleviating the pressure usually felt. It’s rather pleasant.

The Vento Argo is a true saddle for racers or cyclists or triathletes committed to their discipline, as it allows for an aggressive and efficient position on the bike. However, it might seem uncomfortable for casual cycling due to its firmness. The Tempo Argo is designed for that, with its softer padding. Still, this saddle is a pleasant surprise for us, making us want to adopt it permanently, rather than going back to previous models. Ultimately, all the Fizik Vento Argo saddle needs is some color to add a little pep to our bikes!

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