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Basic Guide to Buying a Saddle

Finding the right saddle is one of the trickiest things to get right for cyclists. Most experienced cyclists have tried several different saddles searching for the right one. Here are some things that make finding the needle in the haystack a little easier.

 What to Look for

Let's take a look at some key points you should consider when trying to find the right saddle for you...

 Bone Support

The shape of the saddle is critical in finding a comfortable saddle.

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    Key Points
    • Look for a saddle that will carry your weight comfortably by evenly supporting your sits bones.
    • Just like a too-soft mattress, a saddle with too much padding will be hard to find a good spot.
    • On these over-padded saddles, you will find yourself shifting around usually resulting in pressure on the soft tissues.

 Bar Height

 Bar height compared to your saddle height is a factor to help narrow down your selection.

    Key Points
    • As your bar height changes the angle of your back and pelvis change significantly.
    • If your bars are level or below your saddle look for a saddle with a longer nose and slightly narrower rear.
    • If your bars are higher than your saddle look for a saddle with a slightly shorter nose and a wider rear.
    • Many riders have different saddle preferences on their road and mountain bikes.
 Presence or Absence of a Cut-out

 This topic starts many long discussions on their advantages.

Saddle with Cut-out

    Key Points

    • Some riders can only ride a saddle with a cut-out, others find them less comfortable than a standard saddle.
    • If you prefer a level saddle and are having problems with soft-tissue pressure a cut out may be a good thing.
    • If your saddle discomfort comes from chafing or pressure points a cut-out saddle will do little to change things.
 
 Consider your Shorts

 Approach your saddle choice keeping in mind what type of cycling shorts you wear.

    Key Points
    • Shorts and saddles work together to provide overall riding comfort.
    • A saddle that is perfect for you otherwise may not support you well if the shorts you are wearing are in poor condition.
    • Also short that do not fit well or have too much/too little padding will also make even the best saddles seem uncomfortable.
 Proper Positioning

 A good bike fit is the foundation of everything to do with comfort.

    Key Points
    • Bike fit goes beyond frame size and saddle height.
    • Saddle position along it's rails, as well as saddle angle tilt are very important.
    • As mentioned earlier your handlebar position effects the way you sit on the saddle as well.
    • It's highly recommended to have a person trained in proper bike fit assist you with this.
 Riding Technique

 It may ultimately take an adjustment of riding technique to achieve true all day comfort

    Key Points
    • By periodically standing for a brief period you can give your butt a much deserved break.
    • You may find it more comfortable if you occasionally vary your pedal cadence; your pedaling speed effects how you sit on the saddle.

 

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