The 50/34 x 11-32 gearing combination works well for all but the fastest rides and the carbon seatpost makes use of its exposed length and Prologo saddle to produce seated comfort that’s perfectly adequate. If you are looking for an e-bike that'll give you the feeling of riding a standard road bike with just the subtlest of assistance, then the Ribble is a very good choice. Above the speed limiter it rides just like the standard version everywhere but the shallowest of inclines. It's good value for money, too. Verdict This is largely due to the R872 Disc’s frameset costing less than its opposition, which could be viewed as comparatively budget, or simply good value. It’s also an opportunity, because the Bike Builder permits you to upgrade several other components.

The difference, though, is that even on tough climbs my HR would sit at around the 100bpm mark; I'd put in the extra effort on the flats and shallower gradients, the sections I get more enjoyment out of, getting a sustained effort out at a high power. It's no slouch either. Yes, with all the electronic gubbins this AL e tips the scales at 13.35kg (29.43lb), but when that is likely to become an issue, the motor will be taking the strain. It's way more relaxed than a full-on race machine, but still feels nimble through the bends and when mixing it with traffic, should you be using it as a commuter. At first glance the Prologo Kappa saddle has a subtle stylish design that looks expensive, it looks great on the bike and has a flat, wide seat with a shallow channel through the middle to assist in relieving pressure when riding.

Estarli e28.8 Trapez

Taking all of that into account it’s pretty clear why Prologo Kappa Space Saddle (with T2.0 Rails) scored such a great price score of 9.1/10 and why it features as one of the top recommended products in the Saddles category. What helps is the decent amount of comfort afforded by the alloy frame and carbon fork. It's by no means the most supple I've ridden but neither is it harsh. Even with the tyres pumped up firm you don't get rattled around – apart from on those truly atrocious sections of tarmac – which allows the miles to just by without you really noticing. Smoothly does it The channel is presented with a wide anatomical channel that crosses the saddle along the whole central axis of the same; the foam density’ differentiated and increased (+ 3 mm), in combination with the greater width of the saddle, guarantee absolute comfort making these saddles suitable for unisex use. The Endurance is just an all-round balanced bike. It doesn't shine in any one particular area, but it'll never let you down. It lets you get on with your ride; you can push on where you want to, and take it easy when you want, without ever dropping the fun factor. I'm a big fan of Ribble's Endurance range, having ridden the titanium version and the aluminium option, which I described as a 'loveable bike'.

Did a little test the other day, went up Canonbie Road in Forest Hill, 18% climb, first on roadbike and then on road ebike. On the former my heartrate maxxed at 168, on the latter at 152 (with assistance on full), so definitely getting a workout! Apart from the odd moment of faint tyre rub, the mudguards — which have a useful flap on the bottom of the front ’guard — kept me, the riders around me and the CGR SL free of road spray.Personal preference will always play a big role, so ideally you want to be able to try out bike seats of different shapes before you commit to anything. That said, it’s becoming more generally accepted that for optimum comfort and performance you want to put the pressure on your sit bones and off any surrounding soft tissue. Even then the Ribble still comes in a lot cheaper than the other bikes that were also on test (see below), but boasts a component specification equal to or better than its competition. They offer a decent balance of grip and rolling resistance and are pretty durable, too. They are perfectly capable of dealing with the Venturi's performance, but the bike does deserve an upgrade once they wear out. Value Although it might sound like I've just been smashing this thing around like a standard road bike with a bit of added assistance when the going gets tough – which is true, I suppose – I've also been exploiting its 'cheat' mode. Our team of expert testers have ridden a huge range of saddles, in various shapes and sizes. Based on that wealth of experience, we’ve assembled a list of what we think are the most comfortable bike seats for the best road bikes.

Prologo has introduced a new line of saddles called SPACE. The Prologo R&D team has developed a line of ergonomic saddles dedicated to provide maximum comfor and performance. SPACE technology eliminates pressure spikes and numbness in the perineal area thanks to the anatomical channel and varied foam densities. Overall, I really like the Orro Venturi. Its ride quality is brilliant, as is the way it behaves so you can ride it hard or take it steady and it always feels fun and responsive. It's a lot of bike for the money, too. Verdict

How we tested

When riding on the saddle it has a lovey ergonomic fit and is not restricting in any way, therefore reducing the risk of tenderness and chafing. It gives an immediate settling position and you are not left moving around to get comfortable. It has light padding on the seat that will give a good amount of comfort on a long ride. Quality The good news is that Ribble hasn't changed much at all, when it comes to comparing the AL with the AL e. Even with the addition of the hub motor, internal wiring, battery and charging point, the geometry has stayed exactly the same. These two gentlemen could not be any more accommodating if they tried, quality service that is a rare find in today’s crazy world, I can not recommend this company enough! Both are decent options when it comes to ride quality, with the Schwalbes taking the edge on grip and rolling resistance, in my opinion. Value