Joining the Arione and Aliante, the new Antares is the third way from saddle specialist Fizik.

Sharing many of the genes present in the Arione, the Antares is essentially a shorter and wider version of the lengthy Arione. Many riders find the Arione a bit on the long side so this latest addition will find many fans.

It’s available at two price points, either with K:ium or braided carbon rails, as pictured here. Both share the same new Rilsan carbon reinforced base and microtex upper, but the weight difference is 145g versus 175g. Both well under the 200g marker however.

Out on the road and after a quick ride, initial impressions are good. I’ve always got on well with the Arione – there’s plenty of scope for finding a comfortable position on its vast, aircraft carrier size deck, and while the Antares chops the nose off it’s no less comfortable. In fact, at times it was very hard to detect I wasn’t actually on an Arione, just the wider sticky out sides giving it away. Full review once I’ve logged a few more rides on it.

Fizik Antares K:ium £129.99, with carbon braided rails £144.99.

More at www.fizik.it and www.extrauk.co.uk