How to Select the Right Seat for a Bicycle

How to Select the Right Seat for a Bicycle
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A proper bicycle seat should offer both support and stability. The design of the bike seat, or saddle, varies depending on the intended type of terrain. According to cycling expert Jim Langley, an inadequate bicycle seat may lead to chaffing as well as painful boils. Mountain biking saddles have been designed to prevent bruising during high impact maneuvers and tricks. Choosing the right road bike seat will allow you to avoid numbness and discomfort during long treks. Make sure that your new seat corresponds with the frame of your bicycle.

Step 1

Choose a racing saddle if you participate in high-speed cycling tours. Select a racing seat that features hollow seat rails or a lightweight titanium construction. Pick a narrow racing seat as this helps to cut down on wind resistance. Opt for a racing seat with a minimal amount of padding as this will decrease the overall weight.

Step 2

Select a mountain biking seat if your prefer to ride on off-road courses and backwoods trails. Choose a downward sloping seat if you participate in downhill mountain biking. Opt for a saddle with a medium amount of padding for protection during dirt jumps. Pick a mountain biking saddle with an extended rear section that allows you to shift your riding stance.

Step 3

Opt for a gel seat if you have a sensitive groin area. Pick a gel seat that corresponds with your discipline of riding to prevent numbness. Select a gel seat that has the ability to mold to the unique shape of your body. Choose a gel seat if you do not mind outfitting your bicycle with a slightly heavier model.

Step 4

Test out a wider seat model if you exclusively ride on a beach cruiser or comfort bicycle. Opt for a comfort saddle if you normally pedal in an upright stance. Choose a cruiser seat model that features an abundance of internal pads. Pick a seat that offers springs on the underside for an increased suspension.

References

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: Dec 13, 2010

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