Okay, so this is it -- the best saddle that you can buy. Not only is it crazy light, but it's an ingenious design that makes it comfortable, too. The AX1000 saddle is the same design as the super-popular AX-Lightness Phoenix saddle, where the carbon wraps around from the top platform of the seat to the bottom, and into the rails, making the entire seat act like a leaf spring or a shock absorbing structure.

The difference between it and the Phoenix saddle is that the AX1000 uses lighter, and more expensive carbon fiber. The regular Phoenix saddle (see related products in the right column) uses 3k carbon fiber whereas the AX-Lightness AX1000 saddle uses 1k carbon fiber.

So what's the difference between 1k and 3k? 1k mean the fibers are approximately 1mm in width whereas 3k uses fibers that are about 3mm in width. 1k weaves are rare in the cycling industry; they are lighter than other weaves, they provide a more supple ride, and they are of course more pricey. These smaller carbon fibers also more difficult to work with, and hence require a greater degree of skill and craftsmanship. So the end result? The AX-Lightness AX1000 saddle is a lighter, more comfortable, and more expensive version of the Phoenix. You can see the tighter weave, too.

AX-Lightness specifies a maximum rider weight of 75 kg, or 165 lbs, for the AX1000 saddle.

• Finish: 1K cloth


• Weight: 55 grams (real weight on our scale)


• Dimensions: (L x W x H) 260 mm x 125 mm x 61 mm


• Upper: Carbon and aramid prepreg


• Rails: Carbon and aramid prepreg


• Manufacturing method: Autoclave


• Range of adjustment: 75 x 8 mm


• Intended use: Road