Picking the right bicycle seat will help you stay comfortable as you tackle that rough mountain bike terrain. Learn how to choose the bicycle seat for you in this free video clip.
A softer and wider saddle is recommended for starters
A key component is wearing appropriate bicycle shorts
Consult your local bicycle shop
Pancho Herrera is passionate about cycling. Pancho races for the SLO Nexus Club on road and mountain bikes. Pancho also has 25 years cycling experience as a competitor and pro shop mechanic.
PANCHO HERRERA: This is Pancho Herrera and I'm going to attempt to unravel the mystery of the bicycle saddle. Probably, one of the most difficult components on a bicycle to recommend, because every rider is shaped a little different. Here's some general guidelines. A softer, wider and shorter saddle is generally recommended for a recreational or weekend type of rider. You sink into these a little bit, they're easier for you when you ride occasionally and generally you'll find them more comfortable. As you progress in the sport, you'd put more miles in. You feel a little bit stronger. You'll generally move yourself to a firmer and narrower saddle. Here's an example of a high-end road saddle. Notice it's a little bit narrower, has a little bit longer nose to it and definitely a bunch firmer. On the outside, it would look like that would be less comfortable, it's not that soft. To the contrary, as you put more mileage in, your body becomes firmer; it becomes toned and shaped to the saddle. A firm saddle like this that's narrow is going to generally be more comfortable. Don't forget a key component of your saddle choice and that's bicycle shorts. The pad in lycra short is an essential component for long rides. If you're having difficultly finding a comfortable saddle, don't forget to try out a couple pairs of shorts. I think you'll find it, enhances your comfort on the bike. This saddle also has the interesting feature. It's a cut out down the center. The idea there is to relieve pressure on the center part of your body. Well, you could try that out; see if it works for you. As with any bicycle component, it works best to try it first. If you have that option at your local bike shop, take advantage of it.
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