Bicycle saddles

Sitting complaints can be avoided

Pretty much every cyclist has these problems: numbness, sitting complaints, back pain and tense muscles are common on a bicycle, even over short distances. Surprising when you think about it: there are high-tech models with all kinds of features, but a rigid, virtually immovable seat shell forms the basis of almost all seats. In combination with an unsuitable seat pad, this has a proven negative effect on circulation in the seat area, especially in the area of the perineum and genitals. Since the female and male anatomy differs considerably in the seat area, special seats for women and men are offered in various widths. Aside from their basic shape, they differ in the design of the relief channel in the area of the perineum and genitals.For cases where this can´tbe determined during the bicycle production process, a third, gender-neutral option has also become established - the ergonomic unisex basic saddle (see below).

All a question of dynamics

These problems can be solved with a seat that is moveable and correctly adjusted. The seat construction should be flexible so it permits natural pelvic movements and reliably dampens shocks while riding. A full-surface 3D damping element also prevents the otherwise common rigid posture on the bicycle. When the seat makes controlled movements possible and facilitates changing the sitting position, the cyclist benefits from more active back muscles while riding – for better back health.

A horizontal position is recommended as the basic setting when adjusting the saddle. If the load on the perineum and genital area is excessive, slightly lowering the front of the seat can help. Minimally raising the front of the seat on the other hand helps in case of sliding forward, which leads to excessive pressure on the area of the perineum and genitals, or excessive load on the hands.

The ergonomic unisex basic saddle – a sound choice when buying a production bike

With certain types of bicycle – such as touring, trekking or fitness bikes – it’s often not known at the point of sale whether a man or a woman will end up riding it, since these bikes are used equally by people of both genders. So the saddle fitted at the factory needs to suit as broad a range of people as possible equally well. This is exactly what the ergonomic unisex basic saddle was developed for. Gender-neutral and one-size, it should comfortably already suit around 70% of all riders, since sitting bone width varies within a fairly predictable range across the population. A hybrid pressure relief channel, together with the upright position typically adopted when riding these types of bikes, ensures that the pelvis tilts less and that weight is carried mainly by the sitting bones rather than the sensitive soft tissue – which is beneficial for both men and women. Anyone who would like to switch to a different saddle at a later time will find an even better solution in a saddle that is coordinated specifically to their bike type and personal needs – but, until then, the unisex basic saddle is generally clearly superior, in ergonomic terms, to any standard off-the-shelf saddle. 

Indispensable accessories

Back-friendly cycling also includes ergonomic bicycle grips and a back-friendly bicycle backpack. The most important thing however is for the bicycle to be adjusted according to personal needs. While this should be part of the service offered by good bicycle shops, you can easily do it yourself with corresponding instruction. Find tips on these AGR web pages.

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