The WTB Valcon mountain bike saddle comes in three flavors (SLT Carbon, Team Carbon, and Pro) and is positioned as an XC race saddle, though I found it to be much more versatile than advertised. The Valcon SLT Carbon ($165 MSRP) is lightweight, high tech, and strong enough to stand up to DH-intensity pounding on the trail.
I had high expectations for this saddle based on the other WTB saddles I’ve ridden and I have to say the good folks at WTB didn’t disappoint. The Valcon is similar to the WTB Silverado but sightly more rounded with the addition of what WTB calls the Luxzone. The Luxzone is basically a cut in the middle of the saddle to relieve pressure in the groin area while improving air flow down there (it doesn’t get more luxe than that).
The SLT is covered in leather with a fresh, over-sized WTB graphic running diagonally across the back. Underneath the cool exterior there’s the familiar DNA padding which is also found on the other high-end WTB models. For those who aren’t familiar, DNA is a dense foam padding that forms over time to your contours and reduces saddle hotspots on the bike.
The carbon composite shell further reduces weight and allows for some give when going over bumps and roots. If you look at the Valcon closely you’ll see this saddle is rather flat (unlike say a Pure or Rocket) which makes for an efficient climbing saddle. The flat shape also allows the rider to get on to the tip more easily and stay there to increase leverage and performance.
As icing on the cake, the Valcon SLT Carbon also spots 7mm titanium rails. Titanium not only reduces weight but helps reduce vibration.
During my tests I ran the Valcon SLT Carbon on both my XC bikes and my DH rig and it was comfortable either way. Of course when it comes to DH I’d probably save the Valcon for competition and leave the wear and tear of everyday riding to another WTB saddle like the Aviator. Overall the Valcon doesn’t feel super stiff, but firm, so a seasoned rider shouldn’t have any issues with the ride. And while this is a firm saddle, it can still be ridden for hours without feeling numb or uncomfortable.
After logging a ton of time in the saddle across several rides I still enjoy the Valcon and haven’t had any issues with creaking or loose stitching. Feel free to check out WTB to see the entire line-up of saddles to fit your butt and your budget!
I would like to thank the folks at WTB for providing the Valcon SLT Carbon for review.
