I had saddle pain/numbness for 2-3 years since i started cycling, i thought it was that i needed to get used to it and make more rides.. but after 2-3 years i did a bikefit and the conclusion was that the saddle was to narrow, my sitting bones were not supported causing pain and less blood circulation because the saddle was pushing inside my body.. getting a wider saddle (with the cut-out in the middle), the pain was over and the comfort was increased 1000%..
I have rode since 1969 . Out of all the saddles Felt has the most advantage. More importantly weight. But no point training 160 km ride if it detracts with bum pain and or back pain.Your speed drops back and 50% is a huge drop in development of leg consistency.
Saddle height is a HUGE factor in this whole thing. If you're sitting too high, you are basically jamming the seat up into your body rather than perching on it. I have a usable range of saddles I can use once I got that sorted out. The rest is basically a combo of my chamois, the day, if it's a sweaty day vs a not so sweaty day, but once I got the height right, I don't have to ride ONE saddle.
so many are riding with the saddle too high, I think I got it now, but I used to ride with my saddle too high too. although I'm not too sensitive when it comes to saddles, as long as its selle italia 3 they just work love the slr, but it's better for my knees.
I think a bike fit it's the starting poing of determinating if your saddle is the actuall problem. Done this, been there. Bike Fit sorted all ...and I ride the same saddle that was unbearable uncomfortable in the first feel. Start with bike fit and you will save a lot money in the long run.
I think adjusting saddle height is assumed to be basic and prerequisite before riding your bike lol. Everybody spends time getting the height right. Literally everybody.
Great guest. Learn alot everytime you have him on. My first road bike I literally tries 21 demo saddles before I found the right one. Since then I get bike fits done at a fitter that has dozens of demo saddles so I get the right one the first time. Bike Fit is money well spent.
I went through several saddles to try and keep my arse happy. For reasons I know not why, I always ignored the theory that my saddle height might be to high. Eventually, in desperation more than anything, I lowered my saddle height and BINGO! My arse is now loving it and it's also helped relieve pressure on my hands and wrists.
@@hansanders4983 The video should have really covered this and did. Watch this if you want to have some more information as many people will be quite comfortable on many different saddles: th-cam.com/video/GJDeVD5YTo0/w-d-xo.html
Would love to get some more info on sore wrists? I'm starting to struggle with this and was thinking it would be the reach which is the issue rather than seat height? Thoughts?
I have used leather saddles since the 70's. They will adapt to a riders sit bones and position. It takes time to break a leather saddle in and once it is the comfort has to be experinced to be believed. I still have my original 70's leather saddle, a Brooks B17, it is on its fourth bike.
Over the many years, I've discovered that there are three saddles that I can sit on all day without second thoughts. The old San Marco Rolls, the Selle Italia Turbo, and what they now call the Selle Italia 1990 Flite.
I couldn’t get the fit right on my B17 and so sold it and will be trying a Cambium. On a different bike with a B17, it was the most comfortable thing I’ve ever sat on
Definitely do a sit bone width test even if it's the budget aluminium foil one. Helped me realise I needed a wider than usual saddle which makes longer rides almost tolerable haha
@@ulyssepinon9177 You don't have to sit bolt upright when you test, you can rotate your pelvis as you would return riding. As good as a bike fit? No obviously, but better than guessing
@@ulyssepinon9177 Exactly. No need to pay for an irrelevant measure. Just put a piece of ondulated cardboard on the saddle, sit as usual, see where the cardboard have been crushed flat. That's your sit bones as seen by the saddle.
I’ve tried almost a dozen saddles. The best for long distance riding, by far, is a leather Brooks saddle. It has conformed to my sit bones and I’m not dancing in my saddle on long days (50-100+ miles). I have over 8,000 miles on it and it’s still holding up.
Not a big fan. When you climb out of the saddle it feels like a massive weight, and it throws too much weight to the front of the bike on modern bikes. On a full touring bike sitting full upright it's good, not good on a fun bike
I got a 162mm wide saddle and couldnt believe it - before I would shaift left and right, forward and back - but now I just sit on the couch - its a new world, I didnt realise how much discomfort I was putting up with
Don't worry too much about male or female branding. I'm a guy that finds the wider (often branded female) saddles far more comfortable than the thinner (men's) saddle.
This was important. Always have this issue when cycling but can't seem to settle in with the saddle. Yes each body is different that is why it is a huge challenge. I added an extra seat cover to the saddle. it helps a bit but i know it is not a complete solution... Thanks a million for this video...
I went to the extreme and started riding a nose-less saddle. Some push your weight forward and cause new problems (like the Spongywonder (Seat) But others feel almost like the same riding position that we were accustomed to riding with traditional saddles. ERGO The Seat Lycra Gel Saddle works for me.
You guys need to address one of the biggest issues with high mileage riders, racers, etc, and that is nerve damage and the worst is “urethral strictures”. The long narrow saddles of old have created decades of urinary tract issues accompanied with nerve damage affecting men and their ability to pee and “perform” in the boudoir. This is serious stuff as a stricture could result in “external plumbing” for the rest of ones life. Lastly, you might want to give credit to Georgena Terry of Terry Bicycles. She was the first to develop women specific bike frames and accessories, specifically women’s saddles that were wider and shorter, AND with “cutouts”…. Imagine…. All this from a female cyclist…. Btw, I wouldn’t be surprised SELLE ITALIA and others are paying to use her saddle ‘patents’…. Keep up the great work guys! Love your channel!
Having had urethral reconstructive surgery I can tell you it’s not fun. When I began riding there were no cutout saddles. Now I use a bi-saddle that allows width adjustments. Men, think about being 60 30 years before you get to that age and get a cutout saddle.
@@robertmendelson7724 My stricture was the result of a near fatal bike accident whilst riding in a fast group, behind a fit but very much a novice rider. I was behind her ~10’ entering a fast but gentle ‘chicane’ (22+ mph) and she panicked and grabbed 2 handfuls of brake! Besides multiple pelvic breaks, internal abdominal and inter-cranial bleeding, I’d partially severed my urethra. In order to have reconstructive surgery I had to let it ‘scar down’ 7-8 mos, with ‘external plumbing. Luckily the op was a success and I was able to swing a leg onto a bike nearly a year later…. But the take home message is ‘urethral strictures’ are a reality and todays saddles can prevent them. I can tell you a suprapubic tube is no fun either especially if it causes constant cramps. Its a whole new level of misery I can tell you that! Glad to hear your op went fine though…
i find that the more upright i sit the bigger/wider/more padded the saddle needs to be , seems to work for me . having said this 8 hours on my bike makes my arse sore regardless .
Answering the question, saddle sores, not specifically, as my issue's were chafing, which was also a problem running. The bike shop's locally had nothing that worked, and I couldn't test them. I managed to find a narrow 2nd hand one (from the owner of a shop) explaining the issue, and it was close, with no chafing, but the pressure was certainly greater. I found WTB SL8 after seeing a normal one in a shop. After the adjustments, the problems I are almost solved, but without any local bike shop's who have narrow saddles to look at or test, it's been a minefield. Cut out don't seem to work, but a pressure relief area is a must. The 2nd hand one never had this!
Have bought experimented with a number of saddles using correct sit bone chart, finally found the one that works for me SQLabs 60X Infinergy, seems a more flatter with very little to no angled sweep on the bottom sides is the one that gives me comfort.
I only recently learned about SQLabs and purchased the 612 Ergowave Carbon saddle. It's very light, minimally padded, has a good recess in the middle, and surprised me with how comfortable it is on my endurance bike.
I rode on about six or seven saddles with no cut out in fifteen years of cycling. The only saddle which has been horrendous and I never got used to it is Selle Italia X3 with a small cut out, which came with my Rose Pro SL road bike. It gave me acute butt pain and complete penile numbness in maximum ten minutes of pedalling. I replaced it with a Fizik Arione (with no cut out) saddle which solved my problem.
I commute to work and back, 4.5miles each way and my stock saddle felt long enough and wide enough. However, I was getting maddening friction soreness on my undercarriage(male) that I was moisturizing twice daily to cope with it. I changed the trousers I cycle in which helped and tilted the saddle down slightly which hugely helped but it was tireing to cycle like that. Eventually I bought a cut-out saddle for £20 which is the same width and length and all of the problems I had went away.
FAVOURITE: Serfas Rx Race Ready for serious frequent riders. Each side is independently sprung, ie the channel runs the whole length of the saddle. Quickly cured my chronic saddle sores.
Brooks every time for me, Swift or Swallow, on all my bikes except mountain. They do require some maintenance, leather cream and ensuring the shape isn't allowed to sag or leather become to tough, otherwise it can get sore.
I ride Terry Bike FLX which is minimal padded, 142mm, mostly flat and stiff. Changing to a more narrow saddle made a huge difference for saddle sores and chaffing on my thighs.
Bought an old old selle italia thats similar to what youve shown in the video. Leather with a little bit of padding. Switched from a very cheap city saddle that was too wide for my bum. Gamechanger, and even thouh there is very little padding, i am more comfortable for longer periods of time. Looks just like i found a saddle that suits me well.
On such a deep topic with as many variables as there are bike people and solutions, I really took good information away from this post! Thanks for taking time Jake & Alex. great pita topic to kick off the week
After 2000km in a recent event I did. I dropped the nose of the saddle I had by 1 degree more. Sorted fixed no sores no cream required . 2000km later it was wonderful effect. Do this first before you faff on hunting for a new saddle or saddle fit. Bother to adjust the saddle you have 1mm back 1mm forward, then up then down. Being lazy makes you spend buckets on new. Ensure the saddle is perfectly straight not slightly left or right.
As you say, saddle position and bike set up is just as important as the saddle. It can sometimes take a bit of trial and error to get the correct position
I think these videos are useful, however, I also think this particular one seems to be biased on saddles first and fit second. Yes, some saddles will never be comfortable for a given person, however, the rigtht saddle will never be comfortable in the wrong position, so perhaps that is where the discussion should begin with. As someone else has mentioned, saddle height alone is a massive issue (speaking from experience here). Coming back to saddles, other things that could have been mentioned is how padding can cause chafing in longer rides, and how saddles too wide can make someone gravitate towards the nose...
Friction is the main cause of chafing. Many padded saddles have grippy material on top which causes your pants to stick to it and then rub your butt. Some non-padded ones get tacky when sweaty as well.
I always buy specific road gel saddle for comfort, because the road saddles that originally come with the road bike or bikes i tend to buy are absolutely uncomfortable.
Just shopping for a new city/road bike. Every single saddle is just goofy. Not sure what they are thinking. Sadly years of soreness to figure this out.
Over the years I have bought quite a few saddles and sought a lot of advice. Had come to the opinion, cycling is inherently uncomfortable. One day out of the blue I was given a saddle. That day transformed my cycling life. cycling is no longer uncomfortable.
Curious what the team at GCN thinks of noseless saddles? I keep seeing video’s about one called the V Seat, but wondered what “experts” felt about this very different type of saddle.
What about slung saddles, such as Brooks, that allow the distribution of force and weight across a tensioned membrane, which suits, amongst others, people with odd-shaped or injured (fractured/healed) pelvises? I was saved from crippling back pain by using a leather Brooks, which allows the right side of my pelvis to sit slightly lower to accommodate my longer left leg. I've now got a C13 on all of my bikes. Also, foam padding breaks down after a few years, and I've had titanium rails crack on me more than I'd like in the past. There's lots to recommend them.
So so important. Been a long journey to maybe the best saddle for me. But now looking to buy a new bike type. Oh my don't have the years to do again. Our/often bike shop personnel are to embarrassed to really speak to areas of concern. Thanks so much for information 😊
Yes I have had a saddle sore. Used to get them frequently. Lowered saddle 2mm and have not had any further. I am also using the same MTB saddle on both my road bikes and also on my gravel bike now. I always have a professional fit on every new bike. It is a small investment for a great return over years.
So to echo a few folks on here: Saddle height, fore/aftt postion, seat angle (HUGE!), seat tube angle, shoe cleat positioning, crank arm length, pedal Q factor - generally ANY ,mechanism south of your waist effects saddle comfort. More often than not if your experiencing pain on the saddle, it's likely a symptom of some other adjustment being off. You can a do a fair amount of your own adjustment with a basic trainer to hold the bike up while you peddle, but this is one area i would suggest a proper bike fit. Once you get that saddle setting dialed in, you'll be really surprised how much less you wiggle around you'll do while riding.
Remarkably free of useful and practical information, although a decent - if vague - description of relevant issues. I'd rather see questions addressed such as - how is body shape (specifically) addressed by saddle choice. If someone it tall/short/wide/narrow, what kind of saddle is most likely to be effective? Similarly, riding style - road vs gravel vs off road vs time trial - what kinds of saddles should these different styles of ride look at first? What is provided is a discusses of the issues of concern but not how they are addressed. What kind of rider should select a short saddle? What kind of rider should select a wider saddle. What are the links of saddle companies web sites for their helper apps? I do understand you can't say "All riders of this style or shape should use this kind of saddle, but what are the trends and likely good fits?
Nukeproof Horizon/Sam Hill Enduro saddle, I put one on my Gravel bike because I was told (by a bike fitter) it is very similar to a Specialized Power Expert 143 (that I had on my road bike and liked a lot) but "a bit better suited for the rough stuff". Best saddle I have ever owned and now on all my bikes, even my old commuter. Its super low profile and doesn't look like an MTB saddle at all.
I struggled for years with soreness in the soft tissue (naughty bits) usually after about 30 miles. I tried loads of different saddles with and without cutouts, sloping the nose down (then I just slipped down), I solved this largely with a "Selle SMP" (I think I got the name right) which has a cutout which runs into the turned down nose. The nose was the important bit it allowed thigh side contact without soft tissue contact.
Had a very thorough fitting after recovering from a serious injury, and have had no issues with my Selle SMP 30VTC. Mega comfortable even on long rides as a rider of 188 pounds.
My theory is, that saddles are made wrongly. Most are very inflexible. When you have an inflexible saddle against a moving ischium, you are asking for trouble like pain in the ligaments above etc. You will constantly run into moving energy, which is bang against the saddle. If the saddles were more flexible (not the same as soft), you would experience less pain - about 5% of people have Spondylolisthesis of the lower spine without knowing it. It is usually contracted in childhood and it causes pain, when cycling for longer periods of time. Fortunately there are some saddle manufacturers, who produce flexible saddles, like Ergon and SQLab. I personally have had good experience with those flexible saddles compared to others. But I would love to see some, which were even more flexible, to counter two opposite forces working against one another.
Tried thickly padded gel saddles and had problems..then I discovered Selle SMP TRK saddles which have been great for my old back...they are a unique design, perhaps you could cover these one day?? Thanks GCN
Thanks for the video I always wondered if a stiffer base on a saddle helped with performance, I never considered that the saddle flexes as we pedal and move. Im lucky when I bought my commuter bike I had the shop fit a padded gel saddle and after a few minor adjustments fore and aft I found it comfortable for my short commute, for a longer ride I wear my padded shorts and at my slower pace that combo works just fine. Now when I get ready to buy a road bike I'm sure I'll get a whole different saddle. And make sure to get fitted and kitted properly. Cheers
I've tried different saddles and a gel saddle cover. An angle down helps. However, I still suffer a lot with saddle sores. If I didn't have this problem, I'd ride a lot more often. Now, after a ride I need days to recover from the pain.
i don't like padded shorts, so i just use surfer shorts with a brooks leather saddle. in the past I only gotten some minor irritation with aero type of saddles but no sores.
I've never had a real saddle issue besides the 25+ yrd old saddle on my trainer. That being said the bontrager montrose that came with my bike I really liked. When I replaced my trainer saddle I took that montrose off my road bike put it on the trainer and upgraded my road bike saddle to the titanium version of the montrose.
The first thing I did when I bought my Giant Defy Advanced 2 in 2019 was to ditch the supplied saddle (having first ridden many miles). Excellent bike. Crap saddle. I replaced it with a Brooks C15 carved. Wonderfully comfortable.
@@ianlaker9161i just got one of these and I find the part my sit bones are on is unbelievably hard. It’s very good “up front” but it’s rock hard and painful at the back. Maybe I’m just a wuss. I ride a fixed gear, a long ride for me is 45-50km. 70kg, 5’ 10”.
Question: Sitbones are positioned where before the wide part of the saddle? Or sitbones on the wide part of the saddle . With that said the width of the saddle determines where the sit bones are (on the wide part of saddle ?
I have more pressure on my Lesser Trochanters than on my sit bones. My sit bones measure 10 CM and my MTB saddles are 13 and 14 CM, so at the narrow end of the range of MTB saddle widths. Theoretically 12 CM would be my ideal saddle width but most saddle manufacturers don't seem to believe it is necessary to offer many choices less than 14 CM. Maybe saddle width isn't the issue? Maybe I've missed some less than intuitive solution through saddle adjustment fore/aft or tilt?
As far as saddles wearing out, I'd say it heavily depends on the saddle. I rode my 2003 trek 4900 mtb mostly as a road/gravel bike up until a couple years ago and I felt perfectly comfortable on it until I bought a proper road bike. I don't hate the saddle that came with my bike, but I definitely feel like I could have a better saddle... I find it ironic that my old saddle name gave me numbness while my new one with a cutout does.
I can't seem to find a good saddle.. either to soft or not enough, the closes is my old Serfas with faux leather.. i've looked online for months for a replacement and it seems to be discontinued, i bought what i thought was the same but it's way harder 😒 do the flexing saddles make up for the lack of cushion? like the MH-RX Performance RX Saddle w/ Anti-Microbial Microfiber Cover ?
Great informative video there! I'm struggelin finding the correct angle, to low and alot of pressure on the hands, and to high, i can feel the front of the saddle to much, maybe thats normal?
One bike item often gets miss is the saddle. I usually get saddle sores after mile 40. Is it the saddle or just need more time on the bike? Thank you for sharing such informative information.
With a saddle suited to your body and the correct set up, you shouldn't get saddle sores. Hopefully some of the tips in this video help but it's always worth going for a bike fit if you need help
I just changed my saddle on my commuter bike, it made a world of difference. That might also be because I used that saddle for over 12 years and drove it almost every day haha
I find pushing on the paddles more relieves the pressure on the but. So when pushing hard, the more narrow is better, when riding slow, more padding required. Not a fan when you fall in the middle of the seat, it should be stiff enough foryou to move back and forward
Arione is the mother of all taint-smashers. I think there is no more uncomfortable saddle. Only reason it was ever popular was because it allowed racers to move around on it anlogt to find better positions for climbing or longer efforts
How does one fit a saddle fo those who are the extremes of height and weight? 6'9" & 335lbs, riding a gravel bike (Surly Preamble) with flat bars (so a more upright position). Would love a good saddle recommendation for someone my size.
This still doesn't answer the question: why the *HELL* is it so skinny right where my taint sits?? all the pressure is RIGHT there, and even when i try sliding, changing position, the pressure is still all there!
Backsides over time get used to certain brands, have always ridden Selle Italia tried others and have not liked them. I dont use any saddle with a cut out, tried those too and find them very uncomfortable. Prefer support all round.
Still trying to get the right setup for me. I’m trialing the 4th different saddle on my hybrid road bike but no joy yet. After ten miles I just have to get off the bike. Height? Angle? Saddle? Dunno, but it takes the joy out of the ride.
Good timing. While not uncomfortable, as my gran fondo wore on I felt a constant pressure on a left-side of the saddle that wasn't quite the same on the right. I hope this video helps.
My first double century ride, I was in a fair amount of saddle pain the last 20 miles. I thought it was just pinching a nerve or something. When I got home and started cleaning up, I found I had developed a fairly large blister. Perhaps I had not been liberal enough with the chamois cream in that spot.
While a bit of discomfort is normal on a ride of that length, it's likely your saddle or saddle position may need changing or adjusting. Hopefully some of the tips here help
I'm a casual rider who was very much in shape at various points in my life, but now I don't have a ton of time to be on the bike so I'm a bit more fluffy. I love race style road bikes so bought a new one to treat myself last year. The saddle that came on the bike is a Specialized Power Pro. It's pretty comfortable but after a while the front edge of the wings dig into my hip joints. Any tips on how to alleviate that issue, or maybe a different geometry that may work better for me? I'm just under 6'2", weigh 208lbs (1.87m, 94.3kg). I love aggressive bikes but I'm not as bendy as I used to be, so I have all the stock headset spacers in place. Size 58 Tarmac SL7 if that helps. Thanks in advance and also I appreciate this great video - was a cool watch.
Most "saddle assessments" by saddle makers did not work for me. Years after pain (I assumed it "has to be like that"? "no pain no gain" bullshit) it got sorted out by an experienced fitter who also took a ride with me to observe me in "real life" (getting out/getting in on climbs, body movement on longer distance etc.) Result: saddle WAY too high , saddle WAY too much behind my contact-zone, the only thing correct was the angle. Now: same saddle, different seatpost (no setback! biggest source of wrong positions for non-pro riders) and NO PAIN. However, I needed several weeks to get used to that new position as I was biased to the wrong position for years. On the opposite: a friend of mine rides 200-400km per day at the weekends, does not care about any type of measurements/positions etc. has no pain - never had any pain on whatever type of bike. He just rides and eats KOMs for breakfast. I HATE HIM!!!
I go to all GCN videos for information. I've been zwifting for a few weeks, bought a gravel bike to workout with but the saddle on this bike kills my groin area, so much that it pinches my skin and hurts so much that i can't ride for another few days without discomfort. I've gone to 1 bike shop for some answers or solutions but was told that my build is hard to find a right saddle for comfort. I watched your video with Brad Parker because my build is very similar but not as muscular. I'm 5'9" @200lbs and 15% body fat. I'm not looking to be a professional rider, just looking to enjoy zwifting without so much discomfort. Any ideas? Love the GCN Team and everything your channel brings
I'm a heavier Guy and i've been riding on a 15-year-old fizik arione wing flex whatever it's called. After 60-70kms my bits would go numb. I bought a prologo scratch M5 a few months ago and the "Blue balls" are gone.
Fortunately no saddle sores for the past 14 years. Took a little time to figure out the width of saddle I need. 1 or 2 degrees down. I ride the Giant SLR forward saddle on all my bikes. Now the saddle never comes to mind when I ride
It moves with you rather than chafing you as you ride on it. Buy good middle price road bibs and you’ll be happy (the race stuff is for racing and doesn’t work very well for most of us)
Great introduction to saddle structure and saddle 'fit.' I have been fitting saddles for a long time. In the last century after listening to complaints I got the Gray Anatomy book to understand anatomy. I used carbon paper (that ancient technology not really around any more) to map out someone's personal sitting anatomy. I helped women find comfort before "Women's Saddles" existed. Today I have fitted cyclists who find a more comfortable saddle, by label, does not match their biological gender. I just tell them its not their fault for the fit, they had no choice, mom and dad gave it to them. I meet frequently with cyclists who want a more comfortable saddle. I ache when I see the way the saddle is mounted. I reset that saddle position. They take it on a 'test' ride. Most of the time when they come back, they just want to talk about new gloves. Any saddle, in the wrong position is next to worthless.
When I was much younger, I did all of my ridding without padded bike shorts. I remember going through a period of pain, but then it seemed to take care of itself. Now that I am older, I'm finding that I must wear padded shorts and I'm in the process of finding a better saddle. It sounds like a process of trial and error unless you can find a good professional bike fitter.
It can be a bit of trial and error which is why it's worth going into a shop and trying saddles in person. And as you say, going to a bike fitter is usually the best option
THE tip for comfort on a bike is called recumbent. Anything else is just more or less good compromise. Different question is, if comfort is actually a priority. In general it seems like priorities are elsewhere and "acceptable comfort" is simply "good enough" 🙂
I rode 'bents exclusively for about 7 years, and didn't have any problems. Of course, I rode them because of some neck issues that have since been fixed, and went back to uprights. I never had any comfort issues with Brooks leather saddles, even for 200 mile rides. It is good to have the option of 'bents if conventional bikes aren't working out.
Recumbents are a nice option in some cases but they're: - expensive, including parts - large, so they don't fit in some peoples' homes/apartments easily - low, meaning traffic may have difficulty seeing you + locking them up can be a problem, and unless you go for a very expensive velomobile-type you likely won't have anywhere to put cargo. If you can afford the price, they're excellent for pure sport/exercise use, or if your commute is from and to someplace very safe and with ample room, but not really an option for most. Of course if health problems have made even an upright cruiser agony, then they're really the only option vs causing more damage.
@@Aubreykun I commute daily on a trike, with regular panniers on the rack. Apart from frame, everything is regular bicycle part. In terms of price, you're right, but I'd say they are best for travelling, not sport (as UCI ban everything even on regular bike)
It's so sad that they don't discuss the actuall problem with saddle pains ...bike fit. Sorry, but when I'm watching this, I feel like I'm in a promo show. For people who actually have problems with saddle pain and other bike fit issues, please check videos of Neil Stanbury or James Thomas/Francis Cade. They give a free bike fit guides.
I wonder if it’s possible to create some sort of joint that pivots in reaction the pressure from the rider so that it’s in the optimal position at all times.
I didn't realise I had a problem with the stock saddle until I did the (long) Dragon Ride and in the shower afterwards, I panicked because there was no feeling at all in the old chap. After that, saddles with cutouts but a different saddle for TTs. PS: Hi to Ollie, haven't seen you since that 10 I organised.
Saddle must be enough wide. And main weight must go on pelvic bones. Softness of saddle is not prefer as for me. I changed my saddle about week ago and i am happy with new.
I ride a Fatbike, mostly slow, because Charly, my dog needs to sniff & Snaff & piss on everything. So I use an big Ergometer/Exercise Bike Seat. Love it. Tried lots of differents seats. Cheap ones. All rubbish. Zero comfort. Glad I found the right seat :)
Stroke of genius to put the skeleton on the saddle: instant clarity of what is going on there, after years! :D Thank you!
Everywhere should have a saddle library where you can check out saddles a week at a time and really sort through what’s right for you.
I will say rather then library, have a good bike fit.
It’s a great idea… maybe for a business
I had saddle pain/numbness for 2-3 years since i started cycling, i thought it was that i needed to get used to it and make more rides.. but after 2-3 years i did a bikefit and the conclusion was that the saddle was to narrow, my sitting bones were not supported causing pain and less blood circulation because the saddle was pushing inside my body.. getting a wider saddle (with the cut-out in the middle), the pain was over and the comfort was increased 1000%..
I have rode since 1969 . Out of all the saddles Felt has the most advantage. More importantly weight. But no point training 160 km ride if it detracts with bum pain and or back pain.Your speed drops back and 50% is a huge drop in development of leg consistency.
Saddle height is a HUGE factor in this whole thing. If you're sitting too high, you are basically jamming the seat up into your body rather than perching on it. I have a usable range of saddles I can use once I got that sorted out. The rest is basically a combo of my chamois, the day, if it's a sweaty day vs a not so sweaty day, but once I got the height right, I don't have to ride ONE saddle.
I would even say that saddle height is THE biggest issue. Shape only solves
minor issues
so many are riding with the saddle too high, I think I got it now, but I used to ride with my saddle too high too. although I'm not too sensitive when it comes to saddles, as long as its selle italia 3 they just work love the slr, but it's better for my knees.
I think a bike fit it's the starting poing of determinating if your saddle is the actuall problem. Done this, been there. Bike Fit sorted all ...and I ride the same saddle that was unbearable uncomfortable in the first feel. Start with bike fit and you will save a lot money in the long run.
I think adjusting saddle height is assumed to be basic and prerequisite before riding your bike lol. Everybody spends time getting the height right. Literally everybody.
For sure, just a tiny bit can change it all !!!
Great guest. Learn alot everytime you have him on. My first road bike I literally tries 21 demo saddles before I found the right one. Since then I get bike fits done at a fitter that has dozens of demo saddles so I get the right one the first time. Bike Fit is money well spent.
Hope the video was useful! As you say, a bike fit can be a really good idea if you're struggling for comfort
I went through several saddles to try and keep my arse happy. For reasons I know not why, I always ignored the theory that my saddle height might be to high. Eventually, in desperation more than anything, I lowered my saddle height and BINGO! My arse is now loving it and it's also helped relieve pressure on my hands and wrists.
@@hansanders4983 th-cam.com/video/vMmbXAWcgh4/w-d-xo.html
@@hansanders4983 The video should have really covered this and did. Watch this if you want to have some more information as many people will be quite comfortable on many different saddles: th-cam.com/video/GJDeVD5YTo0/w-d-xo.html
Would love to get some more info on sore wrists? I'm starting to struggle with this and was thinking it would be the reach which is the issue rather than seat height? Thoughts?
@@chriswoolston299 too much weight on your hands, make sure your saddle for and aft is correct. Type in search "Neil hand pain cycling".
I have used leather saddles since the 70's. They will adapt to a riders sit bones and position. It takes time to break a leather saddle in and once it is the comfort has to be experinced to be believed. I still have my original 70's leather saddle, a Brooks B17, it is on its fourth bike.
Over the many years, I've discovered that there are three saddles that I can sit on all day without second thoughts. The old San Marco Rolls, the Selle Italia Turbo, and what they now call the Selle Italia 1990 Flite.
I have a broken in, we’ll worn Brooks Leather saddle. It just works for me. Don’t are about the weight of it….. it’s comfortable.
B17 was comfortable right out of the box. I’ve tried others along the way but keep coming back to this timeless design.
same here. took some breaking it with me, but now is more comfortable then any other saddle i have had
Yeah seriously. I went on a 3 hour ride last week without padded shorts and had no discomfort whatsoever.
I couldn’t get the fit right on my B17 and so sold it and will be trying a Cambium. On a different bike with a B17, it was the most comfortable thing I’ve ever sat on
Definitely do a sit bone width test even if it's the budget aluminium foil one. Helped me realise I needed a wider than usual saddle which makes longer rides almost tolerable haha
How did you do sit bone width test?
Those seem weird to me, you are not sitting on a saddle like you are on a chair. So why would you mesure the width on that position ?
@@ulyssepinon9177 You don't have to sit bolt upright when you test, you can rotate your pelvis as you would return riding. As good as a bike fit? No obviously, but better than guessing
@@ulyssepinon9177 Exactly. No need to pay for an irrelevant measure. Just put a piece of ondulated cardboard on the saddle, sit as usual, see where the cardboard have been crushed flat. That's your sit bones as seen by the saddle.
@@JeanFrancoisDesrosiers I can see a problem with your methodology, saddle shape and position will change where your sit bones put pressure :/
I’ve tried almost a dozen saddles. The best for long distance riding, by far, is a leather Brooks saddle. It has conformed to my sit bones and I’m not dancing in my saddle on long days (50-100+ miles). I have over 8,000 miles on it and it’s still holding up.
Yes! I rode 3 hours the other day without padded shorts and had no discomfort. The Brooks saddles are so comfortable.
Not a big fan. When you climb out of the saddle it feels like a massive weight, and it throws too much weight to the front of the bike on modern bikes. On a full touring bike sitting full upright it's good, not good on a fun bike
I got a 162mm wide saddle and couldnt believe it - before I would shaift left and right, forward and back - but now I just sit on the couch - its a new world, I didnt realise how much discomfort I was putting up with
Don't worry too much about male or female branding. I'm a guy that finds the wider (often branded female) saddles far more comfortable than the thinner (men's) saddle.
I love this portal AC. We can move around the house. Definitely need it for the hot summer.
This was important. Always have this issue when cycling but can't seem to settle in with the saddle. Yes each body is different that is why it is a huge challenge. I added an extra seat cover to the saddle. it helps a bit but i know it is not a complete solution... Thanks a million for this video...
Glad you enjoyed it and we hope it's useful! Don't forget, it could be your saddle height or bike set up which is the issue too
I went to the extreme and started riding a nose-less saddle. Some push your weight forward and cause new problems (like the Spongywonder (Seat) But others feel almost like the same riding position that we were accustomed to riding with traditional saddles. ERGO The Seat Lycra Gel Saddle works for me.
You guys need to address one of the biggest issues with high mileage riders, racers, etc, and that is nerve damage and the worst is “urethral strictures”. The long narrow saddles of old have created decades of urinary tract issues accompanied with nerve damage affecting men and their ability to pee and “perform” in the boudoir. This is serious stuff as a stricture could result in “external plumbing” for the rest of ones life. Lastly, you might want to give credit to Georgena Terry of Terry Bicycles. She was the first to develop women specific bike frames and accessories, specifically women’s saddles that were wider and shorter, AND with “cutouts”…. Imagine…. All this from a female cyclist…. Btw, I wouldn’t be surprised SELLE ITALIA and others are paying to use her saddle ‘patents’…. Keep up the great work guys! Love your channel!
Age 76 now...urethral stricture under the perineum (been riding 71 years), and a godawful big bladder stone from chronic mild dehydration.
Having had urethral reconstructive surgery I can tell you it’s not fun. When I began riding there were no cutout saddles. Now I use a bi-saddle that allows width adjustments. Men, think about being 60 30 years before you get to that age and get a cutout saddle.
@@robertmendelson7724 My stricture was the result of a near fatal bike accident whilst riding in a fast group, behind a fit but very much a novice rider. I was behind her ~10’ entering a fast but gentle ‘chicane’ (22+ mph) and she panicked and grabbed 2 handfuls of brake! Besides multiple pelvic breaks, internal abdominal and inter-cranial bleeding, I’d partially severed my urethra. In order to have reconstructive surgery I had to let it ‘scar down’ 7-8 mos, with ‘external plumbing. Luckily the op was a success and I was able to swing a leg onto a bike nearly a year later…. But the take home message is ‘urethral strictures’ are a reality and todays saddles can prevent them. I can tell you a suprapubic tube is no fun either especially if it causes constant cramps. Its a whole new level of misery I can tell you that! Glad to hear your op went fine though…
i find that the more upright i sit the bigger/wider/more padded the saddle needs to be , seems to work for me . having said this 8 hours on my bike makes my arse sore regardless .
Answering the question, saddle sores, not specifically, as my issue's were chafing, which was also a problem running. The bike shop's locally had nothing that worked, and I couldn't test them. I managed to find a narrow 2nd hand one (from the owner of a shop) explaining the issue, and it was close, with no chafing, but the pressure was certainly greater. I found WTB SL8 after seeing a normal one in a shop. After the adjustments, the problems I are almost solved, but without any local bike shop's who have narrow saddles to look at or test, it's been a minefield. Cut out don't seem to work, but a pressure relief area is a must. The 2nd hand one never had this!
My bike fitter got me onto an SQ Lab 612 145mm wide saddle and I am loving it.
Have bought experimented with a number of saddles using correct sit bone chart, finally found the one that works for me SQLabs 60X Infinergy, seems a more flatter with very little to no angled sweep on the bottom sides is the one that gives me comfort.
I only recently learned about SQLabs and purchased the 612 Ergowave Carbon saddle. It's very light, minimally padded, has a good recess in the middle, and surprised me with how comfortable it is on my endurance bike.
I rode on about six or seven saddles with no cut out in fifteen years of cycling. The only saddle which has been horrendous and I never got used to it is Selle Italia X3 with a small cut out, which came with my Rose Pro SL road bike. It gave me acute butt pain and complete penile numbness in maximum ten minutes of pedalling. I replaced it with a Fizik Arione (with no cut out) saddle which solved my problem.
I commute to work and back, 4.5miles each way and my stock saddle felt long enough and wide enough. However, I was getting maddening friction soreness on my undercarriage(male) that I was moisturizing twice daily to cope with it. I changed the trousers I cycle in which helped and tilted the saddle down slightly which hugely helped but it was tireing to cycle like that. Eventually I bought a cut-out saddle for £20 which is the same width and length and all of the problems I had went away.
FAVOURITE: Serfas Rx Race Ready for serious frequent riders. Each side is independently sprung, ie the channel runs the whole length of the saddle. Quickly cured my chronic saddle sores.
Brooks every time for me, Swift or Swallow, on all my bikes except mountain. They do require some maintenance, leather cream and ensuring the shape isn't allowed to sag or leather become to tough, otherwise it can get sore.
I ride Terry Bike FLX which is minimal padded, 142mm, mostly flat and stiff. Changing to a more narrow saddle made a huge difference for saddle sores and chaffing on my thighs.
Bought an old old selle italia thats similar to what youve shown in the video.
Leather with a little bit of padding. Switched from a very cheap city saddle that was too wide for my bum.
Gamechanger, and even thouh there is very little padding, i am more comfortable for longer periods of time.
Looks just like i found a saddle that suits me well.
On such a deep topic with as many variables as there are bike people and solutions, I really took good information away from this post! Thanks for taking time Jake & Alex. great pita topic to kick off the week
Thanks William, hope it's useful!
After 2000km in a recent event I did. I dropped the nose of the saddle I had by 1 degree more. Sorted fixed no sores no cream required . 2000km later it was wonderful effect. Do this first before you faff on hunting for a new saddle or saddle fit. Bother to adjust the saddle you have 1mm back 1mm forward, then up then down. Being lazy makes you spend buckets on new.
Ensure the saddle is perfectly straight not slightly left or right.
As you say, saddle position and bike set up is just as important as the saddle. It can sometimes take a bit of trial and error to get the correct position
I think these videos are useful, however, I also think this particular one seems to be biased on saddles first and fit second. Yes, some saddles will never be comfortable for a given person, however, the rigtht saddle will never be comfortable in the wrong position, so perhaps that is where the discussion should begin with. As someone else has mentioned, saddle height alone is a massive issue (speaking from experience here).
Coming back to saddles, other things that could have been mentioned is how padding can cause chafing in longer rides, and how saddles too wide can make someone gravitate towards the nose...
Friction is the main cause of chafing. Many padded saddles have grippy material on top which causes your pants to stick to it and then rub your butt. Some non-padded ones get tacky when sweaty as well.
I always buy specific road gel saddle for comfort, because the road saddles that originally come with the road bike or bikes i tend to buy are absolutely uncomfortable.
Just shopping for a new city/road bike. Every single saddle is just goofy. Not sure what they are thinking. Sadly years of soreness to figure this out.
Over the years I have bought quite a few saddles and sought a lot of advice. Had come to the opinion, cycling is inherently uncomfortable. One day out of the blue I was given a saddle. That day transformed my cycling life. cycling is no longer uncomfortable.
Not sure what your point is.... For example, which saddle where you given? Compared to which others?
I only had a saddle sore once. That was on an old Brooks leather saddle. My favorite saddle shape is with a slight relief channel medium size.
Curious what the team at GCN thinks of noseless saddles? I keep seeing video’s about one called the V Seat, but wondered what “experts” felt about this very different type of saddle.
What about slung saddles, such as Brooks, that allow the distribution of force and weight across a tensioned membrane, which suits, amongst others, people with odd-shaped or injured (fractured/healed) pelvises? I was saved from crippling back pain by using a leather Brooks, which allows the right side of my pelvis to sit slightly lower to accommodate my longer left leg. I've now got a C13 on all of my bikes. Also, foam padding breaks down after a few years, and I've had titanium rails crack on me more than I'd like in the past. There's lots to recommend them.
I love my Brooks. I can use it for hours at a time without even needed padded shorts.
So so important. Been a long journey to maybe the best saddle for me. But now looking to buy a new bike type. Oh my don't have the years to do again. Our/often bike shop personnel are to embarrassed to really speak to areas of concern. Thanks so much for information 😊
Yes I have had a saddle sore. Used to get them frequently. Lowered saddle 2mm and have not had any further. I am also using the same MTB saddle on both my road bikes and also on my gravel bike now. I always have a professional fit on every new bike. It is a small investment for a great return over years.
It's always a good idea to get a bike fit. On top of the specific saddle, your bike set up has a big influence on comfort
So to echo a few folks on here: Saddle height, fore/aftt postion, seat angle (HUGE!), seat tube angle, shoe cleat positioning, crank arm length, pedal Q factor - generally ANY ,mechanism south of your waist effects saddle comfort. More often than not if your experiencing pain on the saddle, it's likely a symptom of some other adjustment being off. You can a do a fair amount of your own adjustment with a basic trainer to hold the bike up while you peddle, but this is one area i would suggest a proper bike fit. Once you get that saddle setting dialed in, you'll be really surprised how much less you wiggle around you'll do while riding.
Remarkably free of useful and practical information, although a decent - if vague - description of relevant issues. I'd rather see questions addressed such as - how is body shape (specifically) addressed by saddle choice. If someone it tall/short/wide/narrow, what kind of saddle is most likely to be effective? Similarly, riding style - road vs gravel vs off road vs time trial - what kinds of saddles should these different styles of ride look at first? What is provided is a discusses of the issues of concern but not how they are addressed. What kind of rider should select a short saddle? What kind of rider should select a wider saddle. What are the links of saddle companies web sites for their helper apps? I do understand you can't say "All riders of this style or shape should use this kind of saddle, but what are the trends and likely good fits?
Nukeproof Horizon/Sam Hill Enduro saddle, I put one on my Gravel bike because I was told (by a bike fitter) it is very similar to a Specialized Power Expert 143 (that I had on my road bike and liked a lot) but "a bit better suited for the rough stuff". Best saddle I have ever owned and now on all my bikes, even my old commuter. Its super low profile and doesn't look like an MTB saddle at all.
I struggled for years with soreness in the soft tissue (naughty bits) usually after about 30 miles. I tried loads of different saddles with and without cutouts, sloping the nose down (then I just slipped down), I solved this largely with a "Selle SMP" (I think I got the name right) which has a cutout which runs into the turned down nose. The nose was the important bit it allowed thigh side contact without soft tissue contact.
The smp helped me too and also a shorter nose
I also use the SMP pro, droopy nose - but they are a bit heavy. I noticed Mark Whatisname , the long distance fellow, also uses one.
@@manfredmuench2657 Yes weight is an enemy, but comfort comes first.
Had a very thorough fitting after recovering from a serious injury, and have had no issues with my Selle SMP 30VTC. Mega comfortable even on long rides as a rider of 188 pounds.
Hi, I'm planning to buy smp vt series but I'm confused about buying gel or not gel version. I'm wonderin which one do you use?
My theory is, that saddles are made wrongly. Most are very inflexible. When you have an inflexible saddle against a moving ischium, you are asking for trouble like pain in the ligaments above etc. You will constantly run into moving energy, which is bang against the saddle. If the saddles were more flexible (not the same as soft), you would experience less pain - about 5% of people have Spondylolisthesis of the lower spine without knowing it. It is usually contracted in childhood and it causes pain, when cycling for longer periods of time. Fortunately there are some saddle manufacturers, who produce flexible saddles, like Ergon and SQLab. I personally have had good experience with those flexible saddles compared to others. But I would love to see some, which were even more flexible, to counter two opposite forces working against one another.
I totally agree on this. I too find more flexible saddles more comfortable.
Tried thickly padded gel saddles and had problems..then I discovered Selle SMP TRK saddles which have been great for my old back...they are a unique design, perhaps you could cover these one day?? Thanks GCN
Thanks for the video
I always wondered if a stiffer base on a saddle helped with performance, I never considered that the saddle flexes as we pedal and move.
Im lucky when I bought my commuter bike I had the shop fit a padded gel saddle and after a few minor adjustments fore and aft I found it comfortable for my short commute, for a longer ride I wear my padded shorts and at my slower pace that combo works just fine.
Now when I get ready to buy a road bike I'm sure I'll get a whole different saddle.
And make sure to get fitted and kitted properly.
Cheers
Excited to see Dan found time to model sitting on a bike
Selle Anatomica, think of a leather hammock you sit on. Never been more comfortable, and I bike in normal shorts.
I've tried different saddles and a gel saddle cover. An angle down helps. However, I still suffer a lot with saddle sores. If I didn't have this problem, I'd ride a lot more often. Now, after a ride I need days to recover from the pain.
i don't like padded shorts, so i just use surfer shorts with a brooks leather saddle. in the past I only gotten some minor irritation with aero type of saddles but no sores.
I've never had a real saddle issue besides the 25+ yrd old saddle on my trainer. That being said the bontrager montrose that came with my bike I really liked. When I replaced my trainer saddle I took that montrose off my road bike put it on the trainer and upgraded my road bike saddle to the titanium version of the montrose.
The first thing I did when I bought my Giant Defy Advanced 2 in 2019 was to ditch the supplied saddle (having first ridden many miles). Excellent bike. Crap saddle. I replaced it with a Brooks C15 carved. Wonderfully comfortable.
Just bought one and hoping to find some more reviews on it. You enjoy it, eh?
@@theMJL Last ride was just over a week ago. 64 miles without an issue. Lovely saddle.
@@ianlaker9161i just got one of these and I find the part my sit bones are on is unbelievably hard. It’s very good “up front” but it’s rock hard and painful at the back. Maybe I’m just a wuss. I ride a fixed gear, a long ride for me is 45-50km. 70kg, 5’ 10”.
@@ronnienes well it’s a very personal thing. What suits me may not suit you. Maybe a positioning or bike fit issue.
Question:
Sitbones are positioned where before the wide part of the saddle? Or sitbones on the wide part of the saddle .
With that said the width of the saddle determines where the sit bones are (on the wide part of saddle ?
Yes finding a saddle fit is crucial for riding. Lots of info.
I have more pressure on my Lesser Trochanters than on my sit bones. My sit bones measure 10 CM and my MTB saddles are 13 and 14 CM, so at the narrow end of the range of MTB saddle widths. Theoretically 12 CM would be my ideal saddle width but most saddle manufacturers don't seem to believe it is necessary to offer many choices less than 14 CM. Maybe saddle width isn't the issue? Maybe I've missed some less than intuitive solution through saddle adjustment fore/aft or tilt?
Had pain so got a sit bone measurement. Seat was too narrow. Wider saddle and pain is gone!
As far as saddles wearing out, I'd say it heavily depends on the saddle. I rode my 2003 trek 4900 mtb mostly as a road/gravel bike up until a couple years ago and I felt perfectly comfortable on it until I bought a proper road bike. I don't hate the saddle that came with my bike, but I definitely feel like I could have a better saddle... I find it ironic that my old saddle name gave me numbness while my new one with a cutout does.
I can't seem to find a good saddle.. either to soft or not enough, the closes is my old Serfas with faux leather.. i've looked online for months for a replacement and it seems to be discontinued, i bought what i thought was the same but it's way harder 😒 do the flexing saddles make up for the lack of cushion? like the MH-RX Performance RX Saddle w/ Anti-Microbial Microfiber Cover ?
Great informative video there! I'm struggelin finding the correct angle, to low and alot of pressure on the hands, and to high, i can feel the front of the saddle to much, maybe thats normal?
I had problems with saddles until I had a sit bone measurement made and an appropriate saddle chosen. No more problems 😊
What distances are you riding?
@@BornInArona Anything from 15 miles to 60 on average.
@@RPR_RPR_RPR in km? Haha, well I can Google it Nvm...
what is the most comfy commuting saddle for normal trousers`?
One bike item often gets miss is the saddle. I usually get saddle sores after mile 40. Is it the saddle or just need more time on the bike? Thank you for sharing such informative information.
With a saddle suited to your body and the correct set up, you shouldn't get saddle sores. Hopefully some of the tips in this video help but it's always worth going for a bike fit if you need help
I just changed my saddle on my commuter bike, it made a world of difference. That might also be because I used that saddle for over 12 years and drove it almost every day haha
I find pushing on the paddles more relieves the pressure on the but. So when pushing hard, the more narrow is better, when riding slow, more padding required.
Not a fan when you fall in the middle of the seat, it should be stiff enough foryou to move back and forward
Can't belive this just came out. Great content
Rapha offered saddles for a while but they didn't sell well, I think they were made by Selle Italia, I picked up a couple from their archive sale.
Where are these polls in the GCN app? I can never find them. In the vote section surly?
Went from Fizik Arione with no cut out to Selle Italia Flite Boost TM Superflow with a cut out and it was a huge improvement in comfort.
Arione is the mother of all taint-smashers. I think there is no more uncomfortable saddle. Only reason it was ever popular was because it allowed racers to move around on it anlogt to find better positions for climbing or longer efforts
How does one fit a saddle fo those who are the extremes of height and weight? 6'9" & 335lbs, riding a gravel bike (Surly Preamble) with flat bars (so a more upright position). Would love a good saddle recommendation for someone my size.
Excellent video, very helpful👏
This still doesn't answer the question: why the *HELL* is it so skinny right where my taint sits?? all the pressure is RIGHT there, and even when i try sliding, changing position, the pressure is still all there!
Backsides over time get used to certain brands, have always ridden Selle Italia tried others and have not liked them. I dont use any saddle with a cut out, tried those too and find them very uncomfortable. Prefer support all round.
Still trying to get the right setup for me. I’m trialing the 4th different saddle on my hybrid road bike but no joy yet. After ten miles I just have to get off the bike. Height? Angle? Saddle? Dunno, but it takes the joy out of the ride.
Good timing. While not uncomfortable, as my gran fondo wore on I felt a constant pressure on a left-side of the saddle that wasn't quite the same on the right. I hope this video helps.
Hopefully some of these tips help!
My first double century ride, I was in a fair amount of saddle pain the last 20 miles. I thought it was just pinching a nerve or something. When I got home and started cleaning up, I found I had developed a fairly large blister. Perhaps I had not been liberal enough with the chamois cream in that spot.
While a bit of discomfort is normal on a ride of that length, it's likely your saddle or saddle position may need changing or adjusting. Hopefully some of the tips here help
Yes, but rarely. I prefer a firm saddle, and I ride in Tri shorts because I can't stand all of that padding on regular shorts.
I'm a casual rider who was very much in shape at various points in my life, but now I don't have a ton of time to be on the bike so I'm a bit more fluffy. I love race style road bikes so bought a new one to treat myself last year. The saddle that came on the bike is a Specialized Power Pro. It's pretty comfortable but after a while the front edge of the wings dig into my hip joints. Any tips on how to alleviate that issue, or maybe a different geometry that may work better for me? I'm just under 6'2", weigh 208lbs (1.87m, 94.3kg). I love aggressive bikes but I'm not as bendy as I used to be, so I have all the stock headset spacers in place. Size 58 Tarmac SL7 if that helps. Thanks in advance and also I appreciate this great video - was a cool watch.
Great way to get into cycling!
Any special saddles for indoor training bikes?
Another shout out for leather saddles - especially where weight is not an issue - indoors. They do take quite a long time to wear in however.
How long did it take you to brake one in?
@@gcntech a few hundred miles or so. I'm not sure how much of it is the leather breaking in and how much of it is your backside getting used to it! 😂
Are there saddles that you can recommend for those who are dealing with Siatica?
Most "saddle assessments" by saddle makers did not work for me. Years after pain (I assumed it "has to be like that"? "no pain no gain" bullshit) it got sorted out by an experienced fitter who also took a ride with me to observe me in "real life" (getting out/getting in on climbs, body movement on longer distance etc.) Result: saddle WAY too high , saddle WAY too much behind my contact-zone, the only thing correct was the angle. Now: same saddle, different seatpost (no setback! biggest source of wrong positions for non-pro riders) and NO PAIN. However, I needed several weeks to get used to that new position as I was biased to the wrong position for years.
On the opposite: a friend of mine rides 200-400km per day at the weekends, does not care about any type of measurements/positions etc. has no pain - never had any pain on whatever type of bike. He just rides and eats KOMs for breakfast. I HATE HIM!!!
I go to all GCN videos for information. I've been zwifting for a few weeks, bought a gravel bike to workout with but the saddle on this bike kills my groin area, so much that it pinches my skin and hurts so much that i can't ride for another few days without discomfort. I've gone to 1 bike shop for some answers or solutions but was told that my build is hard to find a right saddle for comfort. I watched your video with Brad Parker because my build is very similar but not as muscular. I'm 5'9" @200lbs and 15% body fat. I'm not looking to be a professional rider, just looking to enjoy zwifting without so much discomfort. Any ideas? Love the GCN Team and everything your channel brings
Great info, as usual. Thanks!
I'm a heavier Guy and i've been riding on a 15-year-old fizik arione wing flex whatever it's called. After 60-70kms my bits would go numb. I bought a prologo scratch M5 a few months ago and the "Blue balls" are gone.
Fortunately no saddle sores for the past 14 years. Took a little time to figure out the width of saddle I need. 1 or 2 degrees down. I ride the Giant SLR forward saddle on all my bikes. Now the saddle never comes to mind when I ride
what makes padding on the clothing (bibshorts/tights etc) better than padding on the saddle?
It moves with you rather than chafing you as you ride on it. Buy good middle price road bibs and you’ll be happy (the race stuff is for racing and doesn’t work very well for most of us)
@@quacker998 oh that makes a lot of sense, thank you :)
Oh man! I just bought a new saddle! So can use this help as I’m dealing with it now.
Hope it helps Ian! If you're really struggling, it's definitely worth going for a bike fit
Great introduction to saddle structure and saddle 'fit.' I have been fitting saddles for a long time. In the last century after listening to complaints I got the Gray Anatomy book to understand anatomy. I used carbon paper (that ancient technology not really around any more) to map out someone's personal sitting anatomy. I helped women find comfort before "Women's Saddles" existed. Today I have fitted cyclists who find a more comfortable saddle, by label, does not match their biological gender. I just tell them its not their fault for the fit, they had no choice, mom and dad gave it to them. I meet frequently with cyclists who want a more comfortable saddle. I ache when I see the way the saddle is mounted. I reset that saddle position. They take it on a 'test' ride. Most of the time when they come back, they just want to talk about new gloves. Any saddle, in the wrong position is next to worthless.
When I was much younger, I did all of my ridding without padded bike shorts. I remember going through a period of pain, but then it seemed to take care of itself. Now that I am older, I'm finding that I must wear padded shorts and I'm in the process of finding a better saddle. It sounds like a process of trial and error unless you can find a good professional bike fitter.
It can be a bit of trial and error which is why it's worth going into a shop and trying saddles in person. And as you say, going to a bike fitter is usually the best option
THE tip for comfort on a bike is called recumbent. Anything else is just more or less good compromise.
Different question is, if comfort is actually a priority. In general it seems like priorities are elsewhere and "acceptable comfort" is simply "good enough" 🙂
What's your solution for people who want to go up hills with a gradient of more than 2%?
@@whatwelearned To pedal. :-)
I rode 'bents exclusively for about 7 years, and didn't have any problems. Of course, I rode them because of some neck issues that have since been fixed, and went back to uprights. I never had any comfort issues with Brooks leather saddles, even for 200 mile rides. It is good to have the option of 'bents if conventional bikes aren't working out.
Recumbents are a nice option in some cases but they're:
- expensive, including parts
- large, so they don't fit in some peoples' homes/apartments easily
- low, meaning traffic may have difficulty seeing you
+ locking them up can be a problem, and unless you go for a very expensive velomobile-type you likely won't have anywhere to put cargo.
If you can afford the price, they're excellent for pure sport/exercise use, or if your commute is from and to someplace very safe and with ample room, but not really an option for most.
Of course if health problems have made even an upright cruiser agony, then they're really the only option vs causing more damage.
@@Aubreykun I commute daily on a trike, with regular panniers on the rack.
Apart from frame, everything is regular bicycle part.
In terms of price, you're right, but I'd say they are best for travelling, not sport (as UCI ban everything even on regular bike)
Has the selle italia SLR boost got oval rails?
Nice one Cam & Neil, I just wish they could make them look better?!
It's so sad that they don't discuss the actuall problem with saddle pains ...bike fit.
Sorry, but when I'm watching this, I feel like I'm in a promo show.
For people who actually have problems with saddle pain and other bike fit issues, please check videos of Neil Stanbury or James Thomas/Francis Cade. They give a free bike fit guides.
thanks
Very informative video! I get saddle sores on just one side. Should I be rotating the nose of the saddle to compensate?
your saddle is probably too high and youre rocking to one side, try dropping it 5-10mm
I wonder if it’s possible to create some sort of joint that pivots in reaction the pressure from the rider so that it’s in the optimal position at all times.
It's an interesting idea! It's be interesting to know how it would affect your pedalling action
I didn't realise I had a problem with the stock saddle until I did the (long) Dragon Ride and in the shower afterwards, I panicked because there was no feeling at all in the old chap. After that, saddles with cutouts but a different saddle for TTs. PS: Hi to Ollie, haven't seen you since that 10 I organised.
Saddle must be enough wide. And main weight must go on pelvic bones. Softness of saddle is not prefer as for me. I changed my saddle about week ago and i am happy with new.
I ride a Fatbike, mostly slow, because Charly, my dog needs to sniff & Snaff & piss on everything.
So I use an big Ergometer/Exercise Bike Seat. Love it.
Tried lots of differents seats. Cheap ones. All rubbish. Zero comfort.
Glad I found the right seat :)
The definition of a good LBS is - it has a saddle library or a try to buy policy