Bicycling Beginners' Guide 4/9

Step 3: Getting Properly Seated

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One change many riders make is their saddle. Although it seems counterintuitive, you should avoid cushy saddles with lots of padding. That’s because your weight will sink through a soft model and press against the hard bottom. Instead, plan on using a firmer, narrower model common to sportier road bikes that will support your sit bones and muscles. You might initially experience soreness while your rear end acclimates to the seat, but that will subside over a week or two of riding. Not every saddle is the same, and as with a bike, you should test-ride them. This requires even more time than testing a bicycle frame: Plan on at least 25 miles of riding per saddle. Some shops offer test saddles or a 30-day return policy.