Breaking in a new saddle

gillyboc

I have purchased a new saddle and have just done my first ride (30 miles) and my backside was killing me, I only bought it because the one that came with my bike didn't seem that comfortable on long rides, my new saddle is a Sella italia flite gel flow and comes highly recommended for comfort, but I have noticed some people cant get on with it, so my question how long should persevere with it and should I treat the leather on the saddle to soften it :?:

asquithea

Wouldn't have thought it'd change much over time, TBH.

You are wearing padded bike shorts, without undies?

gillyboc

Yes wearing padded shorts commando style, the start of the ride was OK it was the last 10 miles, I only changed the seat after doing the Manchester to Blackpool which was 62.5 miles and I wasn't in pain like this ride I have read that it can take 100 km to bed in this particular saddle, which saddles would other people recommend if this one doesn't get better I can't afford to get a collection going help!
Thanks gillyboc.

Hercule Q

have you tried changing tthe angle of the saddle?

mhuk

Have you tried adjusting the postion of the saddle - forwards or back? Is the saddle flat?

Not all saddles fit all arses.

gillyboc

spoke to LBS and he thinks I should give it longer because I have not toughened up my sit bones on my previous seat with it being a wider fit, we'll see.

.blitz

I think if it was a Brooks or something then fair enough it would need some breaking in but all of the saddles I've owned have either been keepers from the start or gone straight back in the box. Some of them get a little bit better with time but nothing dramatic.

Dr S

The pointy bit should face forward. That normally helps.

joshtp

if all else fails, buy a SDG bell air. more comfy than anything else in the world, even my sofa. although that may not apply to you..... for now try persevering with the one you have, it may bed in a bit. otherwise get ready to shell your £40 and never look back.