When I evaluate a component, my ultimate measure of success is whether or not I’d purchase a second one.  Selle An-Atomica’s Titanico saddle is one of those rare products where I didn’t have to think twice about purchasing a second one.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve tried a number of saddles.  They ranged from inexpensive OEM take-offs to pricey aftermarket models.  Of all those saddles, Brooks’ venerable B17 stayed on my bike the longest.  This wasn’t entirely surprising, as I’d used them successfully in the past.  After 600-700 miles on the Brooks, I found myself searching for something with the same level of support, but with more flex (and ultimately, more comfort).

Some extensive google-fu revealed that there were other folks looking for the same qualities in a saddle, and that the most-recommended solution was the Titanico.  I’d already spent several hundred dollars on saddles that I didn’t like, so I was a little gun-shy about forking over the $150+ for a Selle An-Atomica.  Then, after realizing that my rides were being cut short by my backside, and not my legs or lungs, I decided to take a chance on the Titanico.

You know how some people say that their saddles were comfortable right out of the box?  Well, it was exactly like that with the Selle An-Atomica.  When I plunked my butt down for the very first time, I felt the support and flex that I was looking for.  And previously, where I felt like I was sitting on the saddle, I now felt like I was sitting in the saddle.  Two thousand miles later, I’m just as happy with the Titanico.

As mentioned above, I didn’t hesitate when it came to purchase a second Selle An-Atomica.  In the six months between my first and second saddle purchases, the company has made several improvements including upgraded chromoly rails, and a larger laminate on the Titanico model (formerly known as the Clydesdale).  They’re also offering free nylon gaskets to help reduce the squeaking that sometimes happens with their older saddles.

For more information, visit the Selle An-Atomica website.

Specialites T.A. of France has been making chainrings longer than I’ve been alive (and I’m no spring chicken).  Chances are, if you have a crank that’s been made in the last 40 years, they make a compatible chainring.  And in some cases, they offer configurations that the original manufacturers don’t even produce.

T.A. CNC machines their top chainrings from 7075 T6 aluminum alloy.  This method (and material) is not unique to the French company, but the fit and finish of their rings is some of the best I’ve encountered.  Lateral and radial run-out is all but nonexistent, which is definitely appreciated on setups with minimal clearances.  On my bikes, shifting with the T.A. rings is as smooth as the stock units that I replaced.

T.A. chainrings may cost a little more than other brands, but given the same level of drivetrain maintenance, they’ll easily outlast cheaper rings (and some of the more expensive ones, too).