Every Butt Is Unique
The saddle is probably the most personal component on a bicycle. A saddle that others say is comfortable might be agonizing for you. So choosing a saddle can’t rely only on reviews and price—it has to be based on your body.
Sit Bone Width: The First Step in Choosing a Saddle
Your sit bone width determines how wide a saddle you should choose. How to measure:
- Place a piece of corrugated cardboard on a hard chair
- Sit on it, leaning slightly forward (simulating a riding position)
- Stand up—there will be two indentations on the cardboard
- Measure the distance between the centers of the two indentations
| Sit Bone Width | Recommended Saddle Width |
|---|---|
| < 100mm | 130mm saddle |
| 100-120mm | 143mm saddle |
| 120-140mm | 155mm saddle |
| > 140mm | 168mm+ saddle |
Note: Saddle width = sit bone width + 20-30mm (to give your sit bones enough support area)
Riding Position and Saddle Shape
| Riding Position | Suitable Saddle |
|---|---|
| Very aggressive (racing) | Narrow, flat, firm |
| Moderate (training) | Medium width, slight curve |
| More upright (leisure) | Wide, curved, softer |
Common Saddle Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Sit bone pain | Saddle too narrow | Choose a wider saddle |
| Perineal numbness | Pressure on soft tissue | Choose a saddle with a cutout/channel |
| Inner thigh chafing | Saddle too wide | Choose a narrower saddle |
| Tailbone pain | Saddle too flat | Choose a saddle with a slight upward curve at the rear |
| Pain only on long rides | Insufficient cushioning | Consider gel or thicker padding |
Saddle Material Comparison
| Material | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Foam | Lightweight, moderate cushioning | Racing/training |
| Gel | Excellent cushioning, heavier | Long distance/leisure |
| Carbon fiber base | Lightweight, good support | Racing |
| Nylon base | Slight flex, comfortable | All-around |
| 3D-printed (e.g., Fizik Adaptive) | Adjusts to pressure distribution | For those seeking the best |
The Importance of Test Sitting
Many bike shops (especially Giant and Merida flagship stores) offer saddle test-sitting services. Recommendations:
- First measure your sit bone width
- Pick 2-3 candidate saddles
- Borrow them and ride at least 3-5 times (30 km or more each time)
- If it feels comfortable from the very first ride, it’s usually the right one
- If it doesn’t work out within the first 5 rides, try the next one
Saddle Maintenance
| Item | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Clean the surface | After every ride (wipe off sweat stains) |
| Inspect the rails | Monthly (check for cracks) |
| Rail clamp bolt torque | Monthly |
| Replacement | When the cover is damaged or deformed |
A good saddle can last more than 20,000 km, but only if you choose the right one and take good care of it.
Final Advice
- Don’t buy a saddle that’s too cheap (your butt deserves better)
- Don’t buy a saddle that’s too soft (excessive softness lets your sit bones sink in, which actually compresses soft tissue)
- Don’t just follow others’ recommendations (your butt is different from everyone else’s)
- Test sit! Test sit! Test sit!
Related Reading
- The Complete Guide to Bicycle Saddle Selection: Sit Bone Width Measurement, and a Full Analysis of Which Riders Suit Curved vs. Flat Saddles
- The Science of Road Bike Saddle Selection: Shape, Material, Sit Bone Width, and Pressure Map Analysis
- The Complete Guide to Bicycle Saddle Selection: Say Goodbye to the Pain Nightmare of Long-Distance Riding
- Saddle Selection and Adjustment: The Matching Logic Between Sit Bone Width Measurement and Saddle Shape
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