Custom 3D-Printed Saddle: What It Is, How It Is Made and Who It Makes Sense For

An off-the-shelf saddle is designed for a statistical cyclist. A custom 3D-printed one is made after your order, from two pieces of data about you: your weight and the distance between your sit bones. Here is what that means in practice.

What "made to measure" means for a saddle

You don't choose an S, M or L size. You enter your weight and your sit bone width range, and the saddle is made with the firmness and width that match. The reason is simple: a 60 kg rider and a 90 kg rider with the same sit bones don't need the same firmness underneath. To understand why those two figures matter, read how to measure the distance between your sit bones: you can do it at home with a piece of cardboard.

What it is made of

The NEXUS 3D Carbon Saddle is made with Loctite EPU 41 resin and Carbon's Digital Light Synthesis technology. It is not a solid block of foam: it is a mesh of hollow cells, in a Voronoi design, that spreads pressure and absorbs vibration. It weighs 146 grams and measures 240 × 140 mm.

The difference from foam is explained in foam versus 3D lattice: the lattice cushions by flexing its own geometry and does not pack down with use.

How the process works, step by step

1. You choose your weight and sit bone range on the saddle's product page. If you don't know your measurement, choose "I don't know - help me choose".
2. We message you before manufacturing if the width needs clearing up.
3. The part is made with that data and arrives at your door.

This way of working, making the part after the order with no stock of sizes, is explained in custom 3D-printed bike components.

Who it makes sense for

• If you finish rides with a numb crotch or keep shifting on the saddle: it is almost always width. Try measuring yourself first.
• If you weigh much more or less than average: an off-the-shelf saddle either sinks or barely gives.
• If you ride many hours or on rough ground: see the article on the saddle for gravel and long rides.

If you already have one, here is how to clean and care for it. And if you are torn between a soft and a hard one, read why more padding is not more comfortable.

You can see the whole range in the 3D saddles collection or message us on WhatsApp if you prefer to clear up your size before buying.

Frequently asked questions

What information do I need to order a custom 3D-printed saddle?

Your weight and the distance between your sit bones. If you don't know it, you can choose "I don't know - help me choose" and we will help you before manufacturing.

What is a 3D-printed saddle made of?

The Nexus is made with Loctite EPU 41 resin and Carbon's Digital Light Synthesis technology, in a mesh of hollow cells with a Voronoi design.

How much does the Nexus saddle weigh and cost?

It weighs 146 grams, measures 240 × 140 mm and costs €250.