Velo, the global leader in bicycle saddle manufacturing, announced three new saddles this week in conjunction with expanded distribution in the North American market. The new distribution agreement with Ken Yamakoshi will focus primarily on enthusiast and elite-level products from Velo and work directly with retailers and consumers at velosaddles.us.
"The goal of this agreement is to offer greater access to Velo's latest and most advanced saddle technologies to ensure all riders are comfortable, whether they are an elite racer or an enthusiast cyclist," said Ann Chen of Velo Saddles.
The product assortment focuses on Velo's flagship Angel Series and premium Prevail and Senso series saddles, which include the newly released saddles. Select handlebar tape and grips are also available. Velo offerings through KHS, QBP and BTI will continue without change.
"I'm very familiar with Velo's line of aftermarket products. They're a globally respected brand and I look forward to building Velo's presence in North America," said Yamakoshi.
Adding to their flagship Angel Series, the Women's Angel TT saddle features an additional layer of proprietary comfort forming foam designed to offer slow rebound and is highly shock absorbent. The Angel Series includes Velo's patented Y-Cut and ArcTech technologies to create the highest blend of comfort and performance available in a saddle. The open Y-Cut allows for ventilation and pressure relief, while the ArcTech rails provide additional flexibility perfect for long and short rides alike. The Women's Angel TT is available with either carbon or ti-alloy rails and range from $198 to $290 MSRP.
Noting the growth in the trail and enduro mountain bike category, the Senso Wilson is Velo's first saddle designed first and foremost for mountain bikers and features a 242mm length, bringing the short nose saddle trend to mountain bikes. Additionally, the Wilson features a rear buzz cutout to provide 29'er tire clearance when full-suspension frames are at full compression. Textured rubber contact patches keep riders planted in the muddiest of conditions and a hidden Zone Cut to reduce saddle pressure. MSRP is $65.
The Senso Ray is a high performance, budget-friendly, short nose saddle. At $85, the Ray offers a high level of support from its ti-alloy rails, solid base and a full-length relief channel.
Yamakoshi has supported Velo's North American sponsorship programs and events for the last three years and manages the Xpedo pedal brand in the US. Velo saddles are available through the newly established website velosaddles.us, and dealers can also order by contacting Ken directly: ken@velosaddles.us or 888-275-2129.