SQLab Saddles and Grips Review

SQLab designs ergonomic saddles, grips, and Innerbarends to help cyclists ride longer and faster, pain-free. These game-changing designs will ensure your comfort and efficiency on the bike.

Here’s our in-depth review and buyer’s guide so you know exactly what to look for.

Browse our full range of SQLab bike grips and saddles in Australia at BMCR Gear.

SQLab – not ‘SQ Labs’, despite what Google may suggest – is a company solely dedicated to getting you comfy on your bike.

How do they do it? Ergonomics.

Cycling ergonomics: what it means for comfort and performance

Ergonomics is the study of how we interact with our environment, and the tools we use to do it.

For ergonomics in cycling, your bike is the tool you use to explore the world, whether it’s on the trails, on the road or even on your trainer.

Why are ergonomics important for bike riders?

Ergonomics are critical for bike riders because the correct setup can not only improve your performance but also help prevent injuries.

Cycling puts a lot of stress on your body, and it’s particularly tough on your hands, arms, neck and back. If you’re positioned incorrectly on your bike, it can lead to a host of issues from wrist problems to saddle sores, not to mention affect your riding efficiency.

Technical points aside, it’s hard to have fun if everything hurts.

Who are SQLab?

SQLab is a German company that makes components which ensure maximum comfort and efficiency on the bike. SQLab was founded by Tobias Hild, a mountain biker who was experiencing back pain when riding due to a previous injury. Hild began developing products that would let him ride pain-free... and SQLab was born.

Today, SQLab’s extensive range includes ergonomic saddles, bike grips and handlebars, as well as innovations such as the Innerbarends.

Let’s check out some of SQLab’s most famous product lines.

SQLab saddles review

The first thing you notice about SQLab bicycle saddles is their unique stepped design. This stepped shape supports the sit bones properly while relieving pressure on soft tissue areas (e.g. your squishy bits).

The second thing you'll probably notice is that their cycling saddles come in different sizes. SQLab knows that every riding style—time trial, road racing, enduro, cross-country, gravel, touring, commuting—requires a different saddle shape, and not every rider has the same sit bone width, either.

Many SQLab models also feature the Active system. This is a polymer insert that rocks slightly while you’re pedalling, mimicking the natural action of your pelvis. It gives your spine, hips and pelvis more freedom of movement, and removes pressure on the spinal discs and joints. The Active system is a game-changer for anyone with back or spinal issues, or if you have uneven pressure point problems.

By having a mix of models and sizes, there’s a perfect saddle match for everyone.

How do I choose an SQLab saddle?

The SQLab saddle you need is determined by your riding discipline.

For example:

• the SQLab 612 saddle is designed for roadies
• the SQLab 614 for gravel and mountain biking
• the SQLab 60X for enduro, and
• the SQLab 610 for commuting or touring.

Each model also comes in different widths, ranging between 12cm - 17cm.

The width you need relies on two things:

1. Your sit bone measurement.
2. Your bike setup.

How do I know what width saddle I need?

Need an SQLab fit guide? This is where we can help!

If you’re keen to grab an SQLab saddle, we can fit you up to ensure you’re walking out of the store with exactly the right size.

Shopping online at BMCR Gear and can't get in to see us in person? Drop us a line and we'll assist.

What is the weight limit on an SQLab saddle?

SQLab saddle weight limits vary between models.

The most popular models can take up to 90kg (612 standard) through to 100kg (610 Active, 612 Active, 614 Active) and 110kg (60X Active).

If you're keen on a particular saddle and are hovering around the max weight range, make sure to double-check the technical specs to confirm it's right for you.

SQLab ergonomic grips review

SQLab bike grips address many problems common to riders – numb fingers, tingling hands, and sore wrists.

Rather than the regular round style of most grips, SQLab grips are designed with a wave-shaped underside, making them much easier to hold on to.

They also position your hands in a way that takes pressure off the nerves and avoids hyperextending the wrist, so you can ride more comfortably and safely.

Each grip also comes in different sizes, to ensure the perfect fit.

How do I choose an SQLab grip?

Like their saddles, SQLab grips are made for different disciplines.

The SQLab 710 grips, for example, have a wing-shaped design which is perfect for commuting or long-distance riding.

SQLab 711 and 70X grips are ideal for all mountain biking disciplines, from enduro to racing.

If you're in Adelaide, we also have a handy (no pun intended) SQLab hand measurement station in the shop to determine which grip will suit you best.

Shopping online at BMCR Gear and need assistance? Just drop us a line.

Isn’t it great when you don’t have to try and guess?

SQLab Innerbarends review

The Innerbarend grips are arguably one of SQLab’s most famous products.

Instead of sitting outside your grips like traditional bar ends, these guys sit inboard, giving you a secondary spot to place your hands. The angle is a natural and comfortable position – your elbows are relaxed, the tension is taken off your shoulders and neck, and you’re also more aerodynamic (i.e. faster).

Innerbarend grips also take the pressure off your hands, so they’re especially good for long-distance riding and racing.

SQLab Innerbarends come in three different models:

• the super-lightweight 411 2.0 Innerbarends for racing and weight weenies
• the 410 Innerbarends, which are more heavy-duty, and
• the updated 410 2.0 Innerbarends, which integrate with almost any grip on the market.

Can I use SQLab Innerbarends with regular grips?

You can! The 2.0 Innerbarends can be run with regular grips, and also seamlessly integrate with particular SQLab grip models.

Do you have SQLab grips and Innerbarends in stock?

Yes, we do, at our online shop, BMCR Gear. And fast shipping Australia-wide.

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

We know SQLab gear can be a little overwhelming at first — so many models, widths and numbers.

But don’t worry! We’ve boiled it down to the stuff you actually care about: fit, comfort and what products are going to work best for you.

Check out our quick FAQ below before you hit Add to Cart, or swing by the store.

Frequently Asked Questions: SQLab Ergonomic Grips & Saddles

Q: How do I choose the right SQLab saddle?

A: Your saddle choice depends on your riding style and sit bone width. SQLab offers different shapes for road, gravel, mountain biking, touring, and commuting. Each model also comes in various widths—between 12cm and 17cm—so there’s a match for everyone.

Q: How do I know what width I need?

A: If you're in Adelaide, we can measure your sit bones in-store and match you to the perfect saddle. You’ll walk out riding pain-free. Shopping online? We’ll guide you through measurements and help you choose the right saddle remotely.

Q: Do SQLab saddles have a weight limit?

A: Yes. Rider weight limits range from 90kg to 110kg, depending on the model. Check specs if you’re near the top end. The 60X Active is one of the more heavy-duty options.

Q: What's the SQLab Active system?

A: It’s a polymer insert that rocks slightly as you pedal, mimicking your pelvis’ natural motion. This reduces pressure on your spine and joints, and keeps your hips and back moving comfortably.

Q: How do I choose the right SQLab grip?

A: Grips are made for different disciplines. For example, the 710s are great for commuting or long rides, while the 711 and 70X are better for mountain biking. Like saddles, they come in multiple sizes to ensure a proper fit.

Q: How quickly will I get used to an SQLab saddle?

A: Comfort can be noticeable right away, but SQLab usually say it takes around 7-10 rides to adapt fully. Take it easy for the first few rides to give yourself time to adjust.

Q: Can SQLab Innerbarends be used with regular grips?

A: Yes! The 2.0 Innerbarends work with most standard grips and integrate with certain SQLab models for added comfort and improved hand positioning.

Q: Can I mix and match SQLab products?

A: Definitely. Saddles, grips and Innerbarends are all sold separately so you can upgrade in stages if need be.

Q: Are SQLab products really worth it?

A: If you want to ride longer and faster, and without pain, yes. Properly fitted ergonomic components reduce pressure, prevent injuries and improve efficiency. And who doesn't want that?

Q: Can I buy SQLab products in Australia?

A: Absolutely. You can browse and shop our full range online at BMCR Gear, or visit our Adelaide store for fittings, advice, and fast shipping.

Overall, SQLab saddles, grips and bar ends really do make a huge difference to the way you ride, and how efficient you are on the bike. They'll help you avoid discomfort, reduce your risk of injury, and improve your riding performance.

After all, what’s the point spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on a bike if it hurts to ride it?

Keen to check out the range? Come and visit the store or browse the full SQLab collection!