A collaborative project between Xenia Materials of Mussolente (Vicenza, Italy) and Selle Italia has resulted in the development of the Monolink bicycle saddle pillar. The saddle pillar and the frame for the "friction-free" Slr XC and XC Flow saddles are made of a thermoplastic composite reinforced with Xecarb 22-C30 carbon fibres, increasing both strength (by 50%) and performance with respect to the previous-generation seat post.
Xenia technology has made it possible to maximize flexibility and strength of the seat/seat post unit, also improving comfort without altering weight. In addition to reducing the effort needed on climbs or during acceleration, the lightness of the composite has also made it possible to noticeably lower the bicycle's centre of mass, making it safer and more stable.  The thermoplastic is processed using injection moulding, making the process less complex and costly than the previous system, which used a heat-setting compound reinforced with carbon fibre. The aesthetics are also improved, with an excellent surface finish.
The engineering process began with a study of the geometry chosen by the bicycle seat manufacturer and a FEM (Finite Element Method) simulation, which allowed structural imperfections to be corrected. A first test was then run using a pilot mould and various materials. The material providing the best response was Xecarb 22-C30. After additional process analysis and further improvements to the geometry, the first saddle was cast using the final mould. Xecarb 22-C30 is an extremely versatile composite which has been used in a variety of industrial applications, offering lower weight and price with respect to metal while ensuring the same strength.