We were asked: “is the eBay MantaB not about the same” as production MANTA

Not really, but they are exactly the same form and function as the design invented, and developed by Jonathan Catling, as manufactured by, or for MANTA, which is Jon’s brand.

The ‘MantaB’ are our reject stock, that we consider unfit for general, outdoor use.

We do not wish that anyone is sold b-grade stock as if it were of production standard if it’s not. We care about our design and its reputation.

Nearly two decades involved in the design’s manufacturing development, from invention, onwards, almost entirely self-funded, so we might be forgiven for that, and we feel a great responsibility for an incredible amount of expert assistance we have absorbed over the years.

The sale page has a misleading description, and crazy pricing, which seems to be more about damage to MANTA, than in trading openly. The impression given of ‘B’s suitability for general use is wrong and potentially damaging.

This, and varying bizarre statements in the place of product detail on the very public space of eBay, makes us wonder what the intention really is behind this strategy. It doesn’t seem about making sufficient funds to support customers over time, especially with such a unique product. A MANTA is for life.

Supported Outlets
Unified Sport (US) MANTA (worldwide) & Germany/Europe below

MantaB has its place; no bike should be without the design itself. The “B” model is fine for demonstration, trial, or static bike. Randomly they will break, and they are unlikely to last long on the road. Purchasers should be able to expect a rapid spares supply if they pay a reasonable price to cover the cost of ongoing support, instead of ending up with a useless seat at any point.

MANTA offered an extra 300+ spare ‘B’ kits at no cost – we will not sell them – oddly this was of no interest.

There’s not enough money in trading this way to cover costs if you provide support, or even if you do not, so we must ask ourselves, what’s the motivation?

This is our “narrative”.

MANTA’s Soft-Grip™ was designed specifically for the MANTA from years of experience. It’s unique in itself, and far better than the neoprene tubing it replaced three or four years ago, it is revealing to suggest otherwise.

The grey tubing, incorrectly described as “the latest”, was just adequate in 2009, and was quickly replaced with a soft, and tough silicone tube – this material, developed during 2018-2019 into the Soft-Grip™ – it’s grippy, cushy, and bulletproof.

After our 2019 updates to the MK1, occasional rotation was cured – evolution in action. 

“The MANTA is a great saddle!” the eBay seller says, we agree with that.

All Manta saddles, including the MantaB, will be comfortable.

We cannot recommend B-grade stock for on-the-road levels of wear and tear.