Are you sitting on an uncomfortable saddle and can barely pedal after 30 minutes? Or are you looking for a new saddle but don’t know which type suits you and your bike? No problem. In this guide, we explain what really matters when it comes to bike saddles.
The key points in brief:
- The right saddle depends on your sitting position, your sit bone width, and your bike type
- There are three main categories: comfort saddle, sport saddle, and racing saddle
- An ergonomic saddle with a pressure relief channel significantly reduces numbness and pain
- With the right model and proper adjustment, you can ride comfortably for hours
Why the wrong saddle ruins everything
The saddle is the only contact point between you and your bike that supports your body weight. Handlebars and pedals together may support about 30 percent of your weight. The rest rests on the saddle. No wonder a wrong saddle leads to numbness, pressure points, or pain after a short time.
The good news: it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right saddle—adapted to your anatomy and riding style—you can ride comfortably for hours. We explain typical complaints and how to solve them in detail in our articles on saddle pain in men and saddle pain in women.