Best bike saddles & accessories according to redditors
We found 436 Reddit comments discussing the best bike saddles & accessories. We ranked the 241 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 436 Reddit comments discussing the best bike saddles & accessories. We ranked the 241 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
I'd like to try and answer your question since it's not really being answered here. There are a couple options at this point. You can find some 500lb capacity bikes here.
http://living-xl.destinationxl.com/mens-big-and-tall-store/bikes-and-bike-accessories/cat70146
It's obviously still not spec'd for your weight but I'd leave it up to you to risk that. You can also get into a trike bike as well. I would also look into getting the following seat for your size. It takes a bit to get used to, but it won't kill your bits and pieces down there.
https://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-No-Pressure-Bicycle-Seat/dp/B000DZGLVY
Feel free to pm me to talk more. I wanted to bike ride at 450lbs and did it. I'm 225 now. Fuck everyone else and ride. The fat calls were fuel for me. Now I'm looking for my first road bike to ride past all the haters because I'm sick of running out of gears in my 3 speed cruiser. Maybe I'll make a post about it some other time...
Oh, and get friendly with a local bike shop cause you will be breaking and changing spokes often. It's a part of the game, and make sure to keep your tires inflated properly.
Do it and ride on man.
You could also get a split-nose saddle! There are many but that's the one I got. It's like a dick cradle and puts no pressure on my perineum.
As soon as I started riding on it, I realized I had been twisting my hips back to put more weight on my hips instead of my perineum, which was why my back would ache so badly after a ride-- I was arching my whole back in a curve just because of my seat. But this way, my back and my dick are both happy!
There are tons of great options for commuter bikes, generally anything in the "hybrid" space will serve just fine, though lots of bike makers have their own commuter models. There are tons of good places to buy, Redmond Cycle, Gregg's Cycle, Performance Bike (although some people don't like the bigger chain places sometimes).
For measuring the size of a bike the shop should be able to help you but generally you should be able to stand over the top tube of the bike without being on your tip toes and be able to just barely lift the bike up a bit. Find the shortest bike that you can't stand over and go one size down from that, that's probably the right size.
Stuff you will absolutely need:
Also, you might want to consider getting a saddle that doesn't make your junk go numb. I've been happy with the ISM PR 3.0 but YMMV. Try to avoid getting too cushy of a saddle when you're just starting out, it may seem nice at first but if you're going to be regularly biking more than just a few miles a day you'll want something designed for that.
Enjoy the FX! I'm rocking the 7.5 and I am completely in love with cycling. Here's a few words of advice:
Ditch that cable lock. I can walk up to a bike with a cable with a five dollar tool and have it for myself in 10-20 seconds. Get a U-Lock and rope. The correct answer for how many locks or what kind of locks to use is how many you are willing to carry. This will depend on your location as well. U-Locks + ropes typically require an individual to have a hacksaw, grinder, etc. I live in a smaller college town and mostly just have to worry about drunk assholes so that works perfect. In other areas more heavy duty and smaller U-Locks are more necessary. This will probably work fine and is cheap unless you're in Detroit or something.
Fenders. I feel like that should be your next investment unless you bike a lot at night. I bike a ton at night and decided to invest in great lights after almost being hit by both cars and bikes several times. The first time you have somewhere to be and go through a puddle, the fenders pay for themselves. These are what I rock and I go through puddles / lakes which I probably shouldn't. I stay nice and dry while my friends breeze through them and get completely soaked.
Racks and bungies are great for the FX series. Like others mentioned, this is just a fun bike. I use it for recreation, commuting, bar hopping, exercise, you name it! A rack and a bungie net makes it awesome and Ortlieb panniers are an even better addition.
Besides fenders however... the seat and pedals (maybe) are the next things I'd recommend to look at. The pedals look metal in that picture, but if there's plastic, toss them. Well, I guess you can use them. It depends on the rider, but there's a pretty good track record of the FX series stock pedals only lasting roughly 500 miles before they completely break. Obviously this will vary by user. These are my favorite commuter pedals because I can go clipless later or I can commute at the same time without switching out. These are cheaper and better for commuting just because of the pricing.
As for the seat, your ass will never get more comfy than sitting on a brooks.
Enjoy the FX, it's a wonderful machine and I cherish mine. I was biking to work for the first time in a month (been on vacation) and I forgot I had to go to work. I accidentally biked a few extra miles down the bike path before I remembered I was commuting and not going for an enjoyable bike ride. Careful, it becomes an addiction.
And here's a shameless plug for my pride and joy. It still had the old pedals, saddle, fenders and needs an updated snapshot.
I upgraded the saddle (longest ride I ever did with the stock saddle was 8-9 miles and I had a sore taint for about 3 days) and it's a lot nicer. I'm not sure if this is the exact model but it's incredibly comfortable.
Edit - fixed link
Vertu CCAV
So, they're called saddles because unless you're riding leisurely around most of your weight should be on your feet. But, it will still be uncomfortable on a road bike seat so you must wear padding. This is a main reason why you see all cyclists on the road wearing a kit. Also you just get used to it. Now, when I ride a bike in my everyday clothes I use this:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000HZA918/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498798548&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=brooks+b17&psc=1
It seems backwards at first but you can spread your weight better without all the padding, which on long rides will be less comfortable. Being fit to your bike and having it adjusted properly is very important. Good luck.
Charge Spoon Saddle
http://www.amazon.com/Hobson-Easyseat-Ergonomical-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B000GBK4Z4
Charge Spoon. I have one on my wet day bike. Very good for the price and comfy.
https://www.amazon.com/Charge-Spoon-Saddle-Brown-Cromo/dp/B00GJPJ8NU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483488727&sr=8-1&keywords=charge+spoon
Here is a review.
http://www.bikeradar.com/us/gear/category/components/saddles/product/review-charge-bikes-spoon-cro-mo-21369/
I also have Charge Knife on my dry day bike. Slightly less comfy than Spoon but decent and light.
Looks like a charge spoon
Get a seat like this that has the groove down the middle. Most pain from bicycle seats comes from the blood flow in your gooch getting cut off, because you're sitting right on it. The groove in the middle helps keep the blood flowing, and the rest of your butt benefits. Most of them are gender-specific, to best suit your anatomy.
Axiom DLX Streamliner Disc Cycle Rack, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004094HY2?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
I was able to mount this rack to my cyclocross bike which also doesn’t have any mounting eyelets on it. It worked perfect for me by putting the quick release skewer through the lower mounting points.
And then for the upper mounting points, there are two different options it comes with. Two adjustable arms for bikes that have the normal threaded eyelets on the frame behind the seat. Or a metal arm that bolts to the mounting point for normal brakes.
If you want to use the two adjustable arm option, you can buy a seat clamp that has threaded mounting points in it. Here’s that.
Axiom Trekk Seat Collar w/Rack Eyelets, 31.8mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0025UQ3I6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Here are some photos of my bike with both the rack and the threaded seat clamp.
https://imgur.com/gallery/5NFpk8M
Firstly, congrats on the ride! Keep it up!
I have the same bike (color and everything) so I can offer a few tips for the new(ish) rider with this rig. Treat it well and you will be happy with it for a long time. I have over 1200 miles on this bike.
First, as everyone has said, foot retention. I have the Pure Fix straps from amazon. If you can swing it I suggest upgrading the pedals as well when you buy retention. I have a nice slim platform from fyxation. About $25 but you can get something better than what is on that bike starting around $12 on up.
2nd, Seat. Keep doing 40+ mile rides and you will quickly realize the stock seat has to go. I have a charge spoon I paid around $26 for. Non-bike friends tell me how uncomfortable my seat looks and I tell them that you should see the original seat that came with the bike! I love the charge.
You see the black streaks from your brake pads on your wheels? Eventually that will cause a streaking noise that is horribly embarrassing if anyone is within a one hundred yard radius. It will also stop like shit. I taped off the rim and sanded the paint off of that edge, then replaced the pads with a really nice pad/shoe from amazon for about $10 a set. No noise, no black marks on the rim and nice braking.
Tires. Keep an eye out for a nicer set of tires. The stock ones will get the job done for a while but they are cheap. Keep an eye out on steepandcheap.com or theclymb.com or wherever. I picked up a set of Vittoria slicks online somewhere for around $16 each and it was a world of difference.
I did replace the brake levers but I broke one of the stock ones. The stock levers are cheap but no rush to replace them if you dont need to. Again, there are a ton of better options out there starting at around $15 when you are ready to upgrade.
I also replaced the bar tape but it was mostly because I was not happy with my install. The stock tape is fine.
I hope this helps a bit. I just wanted to show cheap bikes like this can get a lot of flack round these parts but a few reasonably priced upgrades can make this a nice bike that lasts you a long time.
Here is a few shots of mine. Disregard the blue bottle cage, its on there from a 50 miler i did a few weeks ago. my bike
Non-mobile link.
I linked this in another comment. This is the seat that I use and it's extremely comfortable. It's also the top seller on Amazon with 4.3 stars.
https://www.amazon.com/Sunlite-Cloud-9-Bicycle-Suspension-Tri-color/dp/B000H87PUI
Charge Spoon Saddle Brown Cromo... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GJPJ8NU?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Also, if you don't have seat stay mounts, you can always get this seat clamp with eyelets to mount the two arms for the Axiom Streamliner Disc. Just make sure that the clamp is the right diameter for your seat post.
Research noseless bike saddles.
I've used Spongy Wonder and Ergo's The Seat, and both are great. If you want to go cheap, check out Hobson and Schwinn's No Pressure.
https://www.amazon.com/Charge-Spoon-Saddle-Brown-Cromo/dp/B00GJPJ8NU/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1541482436&sr=8-3&keywords=charge+bike+saddle
That cushion though!
I like to call it the "triangle of pain." It gets better with consistency, like once a week
A padded bike seat (I have this one and it's pretty comfy) or bike shorts may also help!
Totally normal. I do however recommend a WTB Race Comp saddle. Under 50 bucks on amazon and made a big difference to me. Didn’t add much bulk at all from my stock Bontrager.
The stock seat was so bad my ass quivered every time I even looked at my bike.
Now with my padded boxer shorts (which I prefer rather than padded bike shorts) it is tolerable and my booty no longer fears the ride.
Hope this is helpful!
PS. I am out of shape myself and after riding for about a month now I can tell you it’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do if fitness and general health is a focus. Congratulations on taking these first steps!
I’m 240ish and if I can fit this seat you can too!
WTB Seat
cloud 9 bike seat for 25 bucks - your butt will thank you!
If you have sinus problems & access to power running a small humidifier with essential oils (Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Peppermint) makes a huge difference.
If you're sensitive to noise (or camp with a sound camp on the esplanade) silicone ear plugs are amazing for sleeping. Instead of sticking them in your ear, you use them like putty to seal your ear canal. Way more comfortable, and lets you lay flat against a pillow. Usually they're reusable, on playa each pair tends to last one night.
For you ladies... a sheewee and a pee bottle is the way to go. No more late night trips to the portapots. I have this one because the open design lets me clean it with a baby wipe. Make sure you practice at home first.
I'm about the same size as you: I usually just wear bike shorts, Pearl or Canari. If your seat is giving you problems, get a noseless saddle or an ergonomic one. They look kinda goofy, but it's well worth if you intend to ride often.
What are you looking for?
I definitely recommend a suspension seat post for more comfort.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BIQN9UC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0dKcBb0HND9Z2
I also put a ram mount on mine so I can have my phone on the bars for gps. Makes it easy to connect to the USB port too.
I added a second usb rechargeable led headlight along with a rechargeable tail.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077CZK75L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9eKcBbC7DX9KQ
And lastly, I put on some cheap plastic moto hand guards to protect my hands since I trail ride it often.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073P3JH7F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bcKcBbM524YT5
This also fits nice in the nook behind the battery
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZP3ADU4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_jdKcBbED6PRMF
2 other things I currently have that I love and will always add to whatever bike I own. These images are off the Amazon site but you can find them locally or elsewhere.
Folding metal pannier
Thudbuster suspension seatpost
Look for a saddle without padding. Padding feels nice at first, but as your sit bones sink in, your perineum will sink into the padding and you will feel sorer for it. The springs might be OK for your purpose, especially if you are sitting relatively upright.
I'm guessing you are a man. If so, you will want a narrower and longer saddle than the Bell GelTech Ultimate Comfort Bicycle Seat that you linked to. Saddles are about the most sex specific part of a bicycle - men and women have quite different pelvises and other structures where the saddle fits in - so look for a men's or gent's saddle.
A quick search at Amazon found the Velo Bio:Logic Bicycle Saddle, which looks like it might work for you. It is longer and narrower than the one you had and appears to have no gel padding.
i have heard good things about the charge spoon , though i've never ridden one.
Installation requires a metric hex wrench -- either a 4 or a 5, usually.
Most saddles will be compatible with most seat posts -- the diameter matters for the frame, but almost all saddles are two-rail designs that attach to any normal seatpost.
Make sure you put some grease on the part of the seat post that lives inside the frame -- stuck seatposts are common and incredibly annoying to fix.
I have the Axiom Mk 3 Alu Journey Uni-Fit, it only comes in black (but a little matte grey spray paint could fix that). I have it on a 26in MTB bike, and it took a few times of moving the rear wheel attachment to get it to be perfectly flat, but I've had no problems since. Also - you'll likely need a collar for your seat post that allows the rack to attach to it, like this. I'm not sure what you are envisioning from a design perspective, but it strikes me as relatively mundane.
Not sure of your price range or overall drop your looking for, but I can say the dnm dropper post is excellent for the money. Myself and a buddy both have it on our bikes and they have been running great for over a year. I know it's not from a major manufacture, but it's a solid product.
DNM Mountain Bike Dropper Seatpost Remote Lockout 30.9x330mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BW4T5WW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_iiJjzbF6KJS5C
https://www.amazon.com/DNM-Mountain-Bicycle-Seatpost-31-6x330mm/dp/B00K2PFH5Q/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_468_bs_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=HJJBTTJSNH0D92HW0R6R
DNM for the money has good reviews and i know Seth bike hacks use one.
you might try the planet ars (https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-Anatomic-Relief-Bicycle/dp/B000C17L2W?th=1) - with cutout. The cutouts relieve pressure in all the areas you want and the cushiness is a nice compromise until you get used to riding more.
I haven’t brought one to OTF (don’t really use the bike) but I do it for spinning class. You can get a fairly cheap one on amazon. I say go for it.
This is the one I have ($10)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H71AZ36/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1oaZDbMEPMG9X
That is funny but I agree. That saddle is way too wide and way too padded.
I went from something like hers to this off a post on /bikeit. My ass has definitely thanked me for it.
I use this one:
DNM Mountain Bike Dropper Seatpost Remote Lockout 30.9x330mm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BW4T5WW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_NgeRwb648F1DH
It is awesome for the price but does not route internally.
I got this one and have been happy with it.
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Schwinn Gel Cover
well i'm currently using the stock seat on my bike and there was some discomfort at first but from what i can tell it was more from my lack of exercise than it was from the bike seat . But if your looking to buy a new seat it really depends on the bike your riding i'm on a mountain bike and will be buying this seat http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-A-R-S-Anatomic-Bicycle/dp/B000C17L2W/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1375298907&sr=8-2&keywords=bicycle+seat . As for the improvements in my day to day life i'm waking up earlier i have more energy and i feel better about myself ! Tell ya one thing riding my bike up hill is no picnic but the sense of accomplishment makes it worth while.
Modifying a frame is an incredibly silly thing to do. Use something like this instead
Edit: slightly neater version - just make sure you buy the right size!
I got a 7.3FX last summer, and I found this seat works beautifully.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001NGD4I0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1371132367&sr=8-1&pi=SL75
You might want to replace a stock seat with this http://amzn.to/1362PDk
I recently got this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H71AZ36/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
it fits fine, doesn't move around or anything. Not the greatest but MUCH better than without.
Rather than saddles, think of the seat post. They get great reviews.
Im tossing up between these ones, and cant decide which is better for eBikes:
Thudbuster
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BIQN9UC/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1C9T7ACO5T769
and
Suntour
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000T3BYH6/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Price history graph indicates this is an OK deal, but far from exceptional. Amazon has sold it for a lot less money at times in the past
In fact, there's a strong spike in prices in spring/summer, and a steeper drop yet to come around the end of September/early October by the looks of the trend over the last few years.
Makes sense - cash in on bike mania when the weather turns good, then have to shift your excess inventory before the relatively quiet winter
I'd hold fire until the end of September and see if it drops lower again this year personally.
Like other rider have mentioned it probably your position on the saddle.
But I’ve also very early on purchased a seat cover and padded shorts. I ride daily and it makes a difference during longer rides.
Zacro Gel Bike Seat Cover- BS031 Extra Soft Gel Bicycle Seat - Bike Saddle Cushion with Water&Dust Resistant Cover (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H71AZ36/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_q5HKAbS2N2AZQ
Docooler Men/Women Bicycle Cycling Underwear Gel 3D Padded Bike Short Pants (Black & Blue, XXL) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K7STULU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_f8HKAbA775S42
I always thought that the dual pad saddles are gimmicky. Wonder if they would be of any help to you though.
For all you know, the UTI may not be bicycle related. Have you been naughty lately?
I think they might be talking about the Lerway Vertu because it is a blatant ripoff of the original saddle. I am not entirely sure if there is more subtle ripoffs though.
So the Thudbuster?
I second the seat pad!! I think they're better than padded shorts since you don't have to put them in the wash after every class. I have a gel one similar to this: https://smile.amazon.com/Schwinn-Adult-Double-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B000DZGLUA/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1468259574&sr=8-4
They're legit if you get one that is purchased and adjusted properly for your body weight. You need a decent quality one though, which are more expensive than you'd think.
https://www.amazon.com/Cane-Creek-Thudbuster-Travel-Seatpost/dp/B000T3BYH6/
Check the reviews on that.
Also check the Cane Creek product page: https://www.canecreek.com/product/thudbuster-lt/. You'll note that it might be necessary to purchase additional elastomers, depending upon your weight.
They work, you just can't expect enduro suspension out of a seat post :)
Buy a seat without a nose. I use this and it works very well. No numbness after 50 mile rides. https://smile.amazon.com/Hobson-Easyseat-Ergonomical-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B000GBK4Z4
He should get one of these.
So this seat
leather tape
and one of these I'm not sure which one
but how do you make the brake covers brown?
EDIT: also the inside of the wheels brown
EDIT x2: found the brake covers
i got a cheap bike mostly for the aesthetics of it ( https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/65/16/38/6516385675b4139a2dd0797e36e177c8.jpg ) that i just started riding fixed, and i really like it so far. But i somehow think an upgrade would do me good. What would be your #1 priorities to change on the bike? Im ordering a new saddle next week http://www.amazon.com/Charge-Spoon-Saddle-Brown-Cromo/dp/B00GJPJ8NU and also some straps. Other then that, what would YOU buy/change and why?
First and foremost, the most important thing for comfort is a bike that fits you properly and is adjusted to you. If it's not a shop that does fittings, then you might want to consider a different shop. I love my first LBS, the people there are awesome, but I would've been saved a world of issues if I had been properly fit on my hybrid the day I bought it.
Padded shorts help but they're not really a requirement until you're spending a lot of time in the saddle.
Now, I'm not saying go out and buy all this stuff. You might need none of it to start with, but all the stuff I've bought....
The cheapest pair of shorts found with good padding start at $50, and they're Bontrager (Trek's house brand) ones I bought from one of my local bike shops.
I've had my eye on these for some time as a second pair, to see if the chamois is as good or better. Still $50.
Super soft squishy gel saddles are crap. Do not buy them.
Stock saddles almost always suck, ask your LBS for recommendations. If they're a Trek dealer, and it's a Bontrager brand saddle, you can always return it within 30 days and try another.
No matter what grips come on your bike, these are probably world's better. These were literally the first thing I ordered for my wife's Trek 6.2 when she complained her hands were hurting.
These are twice as expensive but the bar ends are really nice for longer rides, to give you more hand positions to work with. It's the same base grip, just with added bar ends. I've had them on my hybrid for some time now.
I still rock this saddle on my hybrid. It's comfortable now for short-ish rides w/o shorts, and I can do about 30 miles on it without trouble.
This is the saddle on my cross bike that I put a hundred miles a week on. It's a bit squishy, but firm.
I wear these gloves when I ride as well, but that's more because I have issues with carpal tunnel and this keeps the pressure off.
As far as tops go, I just started wearing jerseys (I'm still 25ish lbs overweight), this is the one I went with. I'm not saying go for one right away, they're fairly tight and I'm still kind of uncomfortable in it along w/ bike shorts, but I've always been one of those "uncomfortable in his body" fat guys, who wore over-sized clothes in a poor attempt to hide it.
I rode in stuff from Old Navy until recently. Over my bike shorts, I wore some knee-length running shorts, and for a top I just used one of their $10 Go-Dri t-shirts, to wick sweat.
Cotton sucks. You'll be way more comfortable in a shirt that's designed to keep you cool and dry.
Oh, and one last thing, if you get bike shorts, you don't wear underwear. They are your underwear.
I've spent a lot of money on cycling over the months, but it's my primary hobby now, so I don't mind.
You can get a Brooks saddle for 90: http://www.amazon.com/Brooks-Saddles-Standard-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B000HZA918/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325022507&sr=8-1
Still not dirt cheap, but a very fair price for what you get. I love mine.
Thanks! If you were interested in the saddle it's this. Extremely cheap. I have three of them on my most ridden and a tioga on my dirt jumper.. no real difference.
I use cloud 9.
Bikeroo Oversized Comfort Bike Seat Most Comfortable Replacement Bicycle Saddle - Universal Fit for Exercise Bike and Outdoor Bikes Suspension Wide Soft Padded Bike Saddle for Women and Men https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MF8TO1P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_I5ZnDbGES5KME
I share your pain with regard to the angry drivers. It doesn't matter how fast you're going, in my experience, most drivers equate 'bicycle' with 'slow', and slow = road rage.
For the rough bike lanes though, have you considered switching to a suspension seatpost? Preferably something nice like a Thudbuster or NCX, but I rode with a cheapo telescoping seatpost for over a year, and even that is a massive comfort improvement over a normal rigid seatpost.
I would also consider lowering the tire pressure a bit, but not too much, since you don't want to risk getting pinch flats.
Any thoughts on this one or know anyone that runs it? dnm dropper
Sounds like maybe you need a new saddle. I had the same problem when I got into commuting and I picked up this saddle from Amazon and my tushie has been happy ever since.
I think 800 to 1k is the sweet spot. You get nice components, a somewhat light frame and it has the chance of lasting you a very long time. One upgrade I can highly recommend is getting a Brooks B17 saddle, they make riding so much more comfortable I would never ride a bicycle without one again. Personally I found great luck with a 300€ singlespeed that I ride daily for four or five years now, but singlespeeds aren't for eveyone and the lack of expensive shifting is the only reason mine was this cheap.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000C17L2W/
"Vertu CCAV"
Available cheaper from dx.com.
Not the most comfortable saddle, but much better than it looks. And it never matters if it gets wet.
Plastic knockoff of this carbon saddle.
6'5" 300 lbs, buy this seat and thank me later
https://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-No-Pressure-Bicycle-Seat/dp/B000DZGLVY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497294152&sr=8-1&keywords=hornless+bike++seat
I hear good things about these saddles.
It’s kind of dorky but this seat cover works for me
Zacro Gel Bike Seat Cover- BS031 Extra Soft Gel Bicycle Seat - Bike Saddle Cushion with Water&Dust Resistant Cover (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H71AZ36/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eq52Cb3E0C7A2
Downside is if you ride it in gym shorts it will stink forever. Maybe there’s a brand that uses better material to avoid that
I have a collection of WTB saddles. Not a fan of them but they tend to come stock on bikes. Love my Specialized Phenom and Fabric Scoop Shallow. Not much padding but they both flex and I find them extremely comfortable. I’ve read good things about these Charge Spoons and they’re inexpensive
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GJPJ8NU
Bike shorts can help, but 8 miles is right around where they’re not worth the hassle of changing once I get to work for me. Depending on the bike, you may look at a saddle upgrade. The stock saddle on my FX was too soft and I upgraded to a $35 WTB saddle that made it easier to be on my sit bones even without bike shorts. I’d give it a couple weeks to get used to it first though. If you don’t mind changing at work, a pair of bike shorts are nice. I used wear a pair of road bike shorts under my dress clothes when I could change in my closed office. I stopped when our layout changed to and I had to change in the restroom.
There are lots of bike mounts available for your phone, mine goes in a small Timbuktu top bar bag I have, but mostly really just goes in my pocket unless I need directions.
I don’t have a mirror. You may find it easier to be aware as you do it more. There are good side mirror options for relatively cheap too, you shouldn’t need to spend much. I’d think the ones that mound to the handlebars would be better than those tiny ones that mount to your helmet.
Edit: link to the saddle for my commuter.
WTB Speed Comp Black Saddle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MA0OPD6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_v.XYCbZ9SNEB2
Top tube bag is along these lines, but more compact. I mostly only use it when I need directions and not for my regular commute.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N2DBVMS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CbYYCb9BXQWZT
You might want to look at the Selle SMP line. Right now I'm trying one of the inexpensive ones before I trade up to the better saddle, but the TRK (more of a MTB saddle) allows me to ride with a cock ring, although I haven't tried the full cage on it yet.
https://www.amazon.com/SMP-TRK-Mens-Saddle-Black/dp/B00ZEO0E9Y
Edit: I should note that I'm on a road bike. I have used the split saddle style on a hybrid (more upright) and it was fine. I have yet to find a road saddle that allows a trapped ball cage comfortably.
https://www.amazon.com/Charge-Spoon-Saddle-Brown-Cromo/dp/B00GJPJ8NU/ref=asc_df_B00GJPJ8NU/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312125954623&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16859101760930284814&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9060401&hvtargid=pla-549116791095&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=63589537658&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312125954623&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16859101760930284814&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9060401&hvtargid=pla-549116791095
https://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-No-Pressure-Bicycle-Seat/dp/B000DZGLVY
Mine's a Spiderflex Noseless saddle It looks like this, I bought it from my physiotherapist, It's pricey, But I've seen similar and cheaper ones on amazon.
The bike I have is no longer produced, It was the predecessor to this one I replaced the handle bars with monkey bars. My aim was to get an upright bike to feel as comfortable as the recumbent bikes they had at my local gym (these ones) Because Recumbents are comfy, but uprights are convenient.
If you like a classic looking saddle. The Brooks B17 Standard is a very sweet saddle.
When I started out, I used one of these gel seats for my butt pain. Don't get the big fat ones. I get back pain sometimes when I ride the full 26 miles from work with a pack pack. You should make sure your seat is adjusted properly. search youtube on how to do that. also, the bike geometry makes a big difference. This bike share bikes are usually more upright.
Here's a good seat that only cost $9.99:
https://www.amazon.com/Zacro-Gel-Bike-Seat-Resistant/dp/B01H71AZ36/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1482343598&sr=8-5&keywords=bike+seat
And here's a referral in case you want two free months:
https://www.pelotoncycle.com/r/?rc=e49388c79e43449cb20f9fdfbee0c7d6
Thank you for the response! Is there a specific dimension size for the seat replacement? For example, this seat https://www.amazon.com/Zacro-Gel-Bike-Seat-Resistant/dp/B01H71AZ36/ref=pd_lpo_468_bs_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=YXHD3BQSZEVH72TYEC3B seems like what I'm looking for. Will this work?
Another idea for a game I'd love to see is something similar to Zombies, Run! where you have a base and need to travel around your area to find supplies and survivors. Every so often, you'll be chased by zombies (that somehow run fast enough to catch up to you) and you have to lose them based on the cycling challenge level you're at. Everyone starts with slow zombies but the bigger your base gets then the harder zombies come out. Open world would be awesome so you have the sense of freedom to explore.
Upgrading the bike will let you drop items behind you to slow down the zombies. Wheel upgrades for different terrains, etc.
You may want to get a new 'anatomically correct' seat. Also, try tilting your seat slightly more forward.
I live on a student budget as well and I recently picked up this one: http://www.amazon.com/Velo-Bio-Logic-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B001NGD4I0/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1334242594&sr=8-14
It's very comfortable on long rides and its waterproof. Give it a week or two to break in before you judge it. Best part is you can return for free through Amazon if you don't like it.
I'm with ya. I tried three different seats, and every one felt like somebody was driving a railroad spike into my taint.
I've got one of those Schwinn noseless seats. It looks odd, and it feels a little weird at first, just because you feel like you're going to slip off while you're pedaling, but if you just keep tinkering with the angle (I've got mine tipped back at about 5 degrees) it'll work out. Give it a try.
http://www.amazon.com/Hobson-Easyseat-Ergonomical-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B000GBK4Z4
This is the kind I use...it's much better than the regular kind!
I crash and mess my seats up all the time. I don't want to spend a lot replacing them. The seat I have now exactly is like the seat I had before this. The branding under the seat is even the same. I think it's probably one of the most comfortable normal looking seats.
Cheap one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PB67CBD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_jw31Db248029Y
Same one just more money https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H60SXAK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_eE31DbXD78SQH
This would help because my ass is fat and it hurts to ride my bike.
I am only entering because you said to.....make sure someone else wins ;-)
The padding does nothing. The best thing for your ass on a trip like this is a Brooks
I touch the ground when I'm standing off the seat, but barely touching with the toes if I keep the bike straight up and sit on the seat. I'll keep the gears going downhill in mind, might just keep the front at 2 when I go near a red light, and upshift to 3 when I'm going 15-ish. I always feel like I'm a burden when I ride on the street going slower than the others. I live in a city with VERY few cyclists, so the drivers are far from used to it, so they just play along and drive really slow behind me.
I'm trying to diet to lose some weight while trying to get this hobby going, but I'm in medical school so I know how to eat for cardio hobbies. I'll probably start the 22 mile ride in a few weeks, I want to get warmed up a bit before going, or I'll fail horribly in the middle of Beverly Hills (half-way there).
As for bib, I'm REALLY not into wearing that while I'm at my weight (My weight is in my thighs and stomach), and I think I could go without pain from my seat as it's a wide soft seat, similar to this one, but if you still suggest getting a bib with that seat, I may get one and wear it under the shorts/shirt. Would that work well, or would it feel uncomfortable wearing it under clothing?
Proly taking you on a brewery tour in Asheville. Then dinner at The Junction followed by a comfy night's stay at The Grove Park Inn.
Edit: forgot to add my squishmonster... [sorry it's a tiny bit over 25, but hey, free shipping] (http://www.amazon.com/Velo-Bio-Logic-Bicycle-Saddle/dp/B001NGD4I0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3GQH0AGPUNH20&coliid=I3VP081JW6OZZE)
Wow. Alrighty then.
My seat looks like this:http://www.amazon.com/Sunlite-Cloud-9-Bicycle-Suspension-Tri-color/dp/B000H87PUI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1369947247&sr=8-2&keywords=padded+spring+bike+seat and I think it's very comfy, but I have only the Huffy standard 20" kids bike seat to compare it to (what I rode as a kid).
The Trail-a-bike seat looks like a standard bike seat. Maybe I should get him some padded biking shorts. Hmmm.
Class starts at 1130. I’m up around 4 am everyday, so the time isn’t an issue.
I’ll get fitted and see if there are any better seats available. I’m using this seat right now:
Planet Bike Men's A.R.S. Anatomic Relief Bicycle Saddle (Black/Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000C17L2W?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Grips - these are the ones I used. There are two rolls - more than enough to cover each handle. I used the left over to regrip the foot rests (not sure their official name).
Seat - this is the one I got. Depends on your preference - this one is firmer and more narrow than the stock seat. It is also shaped specifically for guys. It came with all the hardware I needed to switch it out.
ive always found it about as uncomfortable as you probably imagine, thats why i put one of these on every bike i own https://www.amazon.ca/Schwinn-No-Pressure-Bicycle-Seat/dp/B000DZGLVY?th=1&psc=1&source=googleshopping&locale=en-CA&tag=googcana-20&ref=pd_sl_5ps6ips1st_e
So in my adult life, I had never ridden a bike up until the point where I discovered an abandoned Citi Bike in a place it clearly didn't belong and was asked to hand it over to the NYPD. Since then I had been toying with the idea of a semi-commuter but wanted the capability of taking it on the subway easily as well as sneak it into the workplace without the fear of leaving it outside all day.
Settled on the Camp 20" 16 Speed Thunderbolt. Not many reviews on it, but the few I found were positive and I got a 'new' one off eBay for $300 delivered, whereas Amazon would cost me about $430. A few scuff marks and other cosmetic damage, but otherwise it appears to be in excellent condition. Had it delivered directly to the local bike shop to have them assemble/tune it and the mechanic was very impressed by it. I barely took it outside when I was approached by a bunch of people asking me about it too. Took a little trial and error for the folding/unfolding. They include a sheet which is completely unhelpful and have a couple of videos on YouTube at super low quality so it took an embarrassingly long time to figure it all out. I love how it uses a magnet to hold the bike in the folded position though.
I replaced the stock amber reflectors with white ones and removed the stock front and rear reflectors. Added usb-rechargeable rear red light and usb-rechargeable electronic horn/head light. Also added Taotronics cell phone holder, rear view mirror and nori lights.
Only rode it for about a mile today and it rides really well on the streets of NYC. Seat isn't bad but still a bit uncomfortable after a while. have a wider Sunlite Cloud-9 on order so we'll see how that goes.
The tricky part was adding the accessories in a way that the bike could still fold with them on. I actually ended up moving the headlight/horn to the handlebar post because i could only mount things on one side of the handlebar.
Here's the full specs:
https://www.cube.eu/en/products/e-bike-fullsuspension/stereo-hybrid/cube-stereo-hybrid-160-hpa-sl-500-275-iridiumnflashred-2016/
The seat has a Rock Shox Reverb Stealth dropper on it, but I found the original seat to be WAY too hard, so I slapped a gel cover on it:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H71AZ36/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Makes a world of difference.
What kind of saddle do you have? My bike came with a generic / semi-racing saddle that was hard, and my ass didn't last 5 miles on that seat. I got this one and it made a world of difference! Guy here, if that is relevant.
Selle SMP. It has decent padding, the slot for the perineum, and the nose drops off for your goodies to not get as smashed. I tried all the rental ISM ones at my LBS because I thought for sure that was what I wanted but the split nose means that its wider and rubs on my thighs which was a huge problem. Since the SMP is attached at the nose they can keep it skinnier in the front which means no rubbing.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZEO0E9Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3PJO78F6KOHZL&psc=1
I have this saddle and I looove it
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NGD4I0
The seatpost clamps have two points, or am i not understanding your comment?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0025UQ3I6/ref=s9_simh_gw_g468_i2_r?ie=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=EBHADWEW36XS93E5GGP8&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=6aad23bd-3035-4a40-b691-0eefb1a18396&pf_rd_i=desktop
I used this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K2PFH5Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
and have been happy with it so far.
I'm experiencing some saddle discomfort, and I'm not sure what to try next.
The saddle that came with the bike is (I think) a WTB Volt 135. Any rides longer than 10 or so miles start feeling really uncomfortable, almost like it's burning. I've tried several different bike shorts but none of them really help.
I also tried out a new saddle and really want to like it as it seems better, except for the fact that when I get off the bike after a ride, it hurts a lot for a minute or two during which time I can hardly stand/walk. I thought maybe that would go away after I got used to it, but after close to 2 weeks and ~200 miles it was no different, so I decided that wasn't good and put the old saddle back on.
I've tried adjusting the saddles up/down/forward/backward/angled, and it also doesn't seem to make much difference, so any advice would be appreciated!
Thoughts on this one? I've been looking at it.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BW4T5WW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1415320007&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H87PUI/
Charge Spoon
It has been super comfortable so far
A towel would probably work, but if it starts coming undone, it'll be a pain in the ass (pun intended) to deal with and fix all the time.
I ordered this one, and while it is kinda expensive, you're on your bike every day for hours, so it was definitely worth it for me.
For 10 miles each way, almost anything will be fine. I just got my first B17 and with 100 miles on it, it's just starting to break in a little. Definitely uncomfortable for me at first, and you have to tilt the nose up more than you'd expect to keep yourself from sliding forward. They hold their value though, and people love them. I don't love it yet, but I've only had it 2 weeks.
I use a WTB Rocket V for all my mountain biking, which is closer to your riding position, and >50% of my friends do too. You can get them used on eBay for next to nothing, or buy one new for $40. More if you want a lighter one.
If you want to go even cheaper, I had one of these on my commuter (12 miles round trip) for about 1000 miles, and it's fine for the distances you're doing.
Flyer vs. B17 - I say go for the B17. You don't need ass-suspension. Hell, if you're good with the price and you're doing that much commuting, go straight for the Brooks and don't look back, in all likelyhood it'll be the last saddle you ever purchase.
Also, all the stuff lodellama mentions comes packaged with the saddle except the proofride, which you won't need for a while anyway.
And if you don't already, do yourself a favor and head over to Amazon or your LBS and get some Planet Bike Cascadia fenders, or whatever your LBS stocks.
If you're already using it to commute that short of a distance I'd recommend a small 250W-500W hub, like the Golden Motor Smart Pie and a small (<10Ah) 52V battery. The Smart Pie only weighs ~12lbs, and the controller is built into the hub which simplifies installation. It'll basically make the trip faster and hills easier without drastically altering the character of the bike, or raising your speeds to the point of being dangerous without suspension and disc brakes. I would also consider at least 1.5" wide tires to reduce the chance of breaking spokes and a suspension seat post to mitigate the impact of bumps at higher speeds.
Have you tried the schwinn gel pad on top from Amazon?
Edit: Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000DZGLUA/
I second this. I just bought one of these for my bike. Check the size of your seat post and you should be set!
I use the Selle SMP TRK on my commuter and I absolutely love it! So comfortable. I've always wanted to try a bunch of different saddles but I can't bring myself to take this one off.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ZEO0E9Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1453814432&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=selle+smp+trk&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=410w1Clm8CL&amp;ref=plSrch
FWIW I’ve been super happy with this dropper that’s now selling for under $150. No problems whatsoever. I’ve had it about a year and have not added air since the first install.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K2PFH5Q
I think the picture is misleading, the front intentionally dips but the main portion of the seat is pretty much flat with the ground. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZEO0E9Y/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-No-Pressure-Bicycle-Seat/dp/B000DZGLVY/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1475097746&amp;sr=8-8&amp;keywords=bike+seat
That would be my recommendation, especially since you are just doing short rides/riding for pleasure. I had one awhile back and found it pretty easy on the pubic bone, once you got used to the weird feel of no center piece.