Do I need to replace my saddle?

ecosse69

Hi folks,

I need some advice as to whether I need to replace my saddle, do they wear out?.

I've had my current bike and been cycling for a couple of years, so still relatively new to the sport, but have been through the normal breaking in of the rider to bike/saddle/position etc.

Last year I was able to complete distances of 50 - 60 miles in relative comfort (backside not legs :-)) and able to do a short ride the next day, however this year I'm experiencing saddle pain after about 40 - 45 miles and wild horses couldn't get me near the bike the following day. I've tried making minor adjustments to position ( back, forward, height, tilt) but don't want to alter it to much as it was ok last year.
I'd like to be able to ride for 100+ mile distances and complete some LD Tri events so would appreciate any advice as to how to cure the issue and if I need to replace the saddle, which types best suit the mileages I intend to cover.

Current bike is a specialized roubaix with the generic Toupe gel saddle and riding mileages & outings are similar to last year for the shorter training rides.

Thanks

ecosse

willowthewhite

Are you using a different pair of shorts? or could the ones that you have need replacing?

ecosse69

A very fair point

I've always used 2xu Tri shorts which don't have a great amount of padding to start with but would like to be able to cover the distances I need to with this limited amount of padding especially when training for Tri events.
That being said, if I'm being unrealistic to expect my derrier to cope with said distances and lack of padding then I may have to take the advice of more experienced riders and work out a way of transitionong without mooning :oops: [/img]

navrig

Too many pie eating competitions :twisted:

ecosse69

Yes a bit of weight loss wouldn't be unwarranted however my average mph is around 10% better over the same terrain as last year

andrewjoseph

Some saddles that use foam can get compacted, this may be what you are experiencing. Or it may be that the plastic shell underneath has deformed or even the rails bent, or all of the above.

As to what saddle is best for distances, that is a personal thing.

My experience is that a good saddle is not mileage dependant, you need something to suit your butt.

I like Brooks B17 Narrow, many others hate them.

Rido are now doing a 'pro' version of their saddle, it is not on sale yet but you can register for a reduced price pre launch saddle for about £67.