The Turbo design was first introduced in 1980. At the time its radical new shape and padding upper was a revelation, and it became the saddle of choice for five-time Tour de France winner Bernard Hinault.
Selle Italia have now reintroduced it in response to the fixed/single/classic boom, which has seen a number of other saddle brands produce copycat Turbo models for a demanding public. So what’s the Turbo like in use?
The shortish, stocky shape feels different in these times of elongated, minimalist designs, such as the Fizik Arione, but it’s different in a good way. The broad back, deep sides and well-padded nose give enough room for manoeuvre and sitting on it is supremely comfortable.
It’s not clever, cutting edge or super light but in the single most important job a saddle has – being a nice place to perch your hind quarters – the Turbo excels. It weighs 310g, and comes in black and white.
