RYET 3D Printed Ultralight Carbon Saddle Review
RYET 3D Printed Ultralight Carbon Saddle – Featherweight Comfort or Just Fluff?
I picked up the RYET 3D saddle out of sheer curiosity — could a £20–£30 3D printed saddle from AliExpress really compete with the big-name £300+ options? After 1,000+ km across tarmac, towpaths, and a few regrettable cobbled shortcuts, here’s the verdict.
Build & First Impressions
Out of the box, it’s shockingly light — around 135g for the carbon-railed version. The 3D printed lattice is firm but springy, with a pressure-relief channel running down the middle. The carbon base and rails feel solid, and the finish is surprisingly tidy for the price. No sharp edges, no weird glue blobs — just clean, minimalist design.
Comfort & Ride Feel
I expected a torture device. What I got was… actually pretty decent. The lattice structure dampens road buzz better than a full carbon slab, and the central cutout helps relieve pressure on longer rides. It’s firm, yes — but not harsh. I’ve done 4-hour rides without numbness or hotspots, which is more than I can say for some “premium” saddles I’ve tried.
That said, it’s not plush. If you’re used to gel or heavily padded saddles, this will feel like sitting on a carbon waffle iron — but one that’s surprisingly ergonomic.
Durability & Real-World Use
- Mounting: Rails are standard 7x9mm oval carbon — no issues fitting to my seatpost clamp.
- Flex: Minimal lateral flex, but enough vertical give to take the sting out of rough roads.
- Weather: No issues in rain or heat so far. The open lattice drains well and dries fast.
- Wear: After 1,000km, no cracks, no delamination, no creaks. Just a bit of scuffing on the edges.
Pros
- Ridiculously light for the price
- Surprisingly comfortable for medium to long rides
- Breathable and fast-drying
- Looks sharp on a modern build
- Costs less than a round of drinks at the pub
Cons
- Not ideal for riders who prefer plush saddles
- No official weight limit or crash testing data
- Quality control may vary between batches
- Branding is minimal — great for stealth, but no prestige points
Final Verdict The RYET 3D Printed Saddle is a budget marvel — a no-frills, ultralight option that delivers real-world comfort and performance for a fraction of the price of its Western counterparts. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re saddle-curious and don’t mind a bit of DIY experimentation, it’s absolutely worth a spin.
