Tuesday, February 16, 2010

A Long Day in the Saddle

It wasn't actually until I'd ridden a few days consecutively on a tour through Montana that I figured out just how really, really, TRULY important a comfortable saddle is for a bicycle tour. I know it's not something brought up in polite conversation, but, let's talk as cycling buddies, shall we? There is nothing more miserable than pedaling along, mile after spectacular mile, the sunlight dappling the trees, your new friends conversing about their latest bicycle upgrades, and you, consumed by discomfort, unable to focus on anything other than your poor, painful, rear end.

Luckily, a good saddle can make all the difference, and, although some folks are blessed with bottoms that can take almost anything, most of us spend some time, like the Princess and the Pea, figuring out just what saddle works best. Personally, I'm a fan of the Terry Liberator X Gel Saddle for women; it's not too hard, not too soft, and has a nice, streamlined fit. I spent some time figure out just what tilt worked for me and how far back I needed the saddle to sit and now I can pretty much ride all day long without complaint. Pretty much.


Josh Tack, writer of our much loved Gear Review weekly update, and also my frequent bicycle touring companion, trends towards the more traditional when it comes toward bicycle travel. He goes for the Brooks Standard Saddle, and loves it for, among other features, the way it breaks in so uniquely.
A good saddle investment can make all the difference in the world--especially during the latter miles of your tour, when you're tiring anyway, and tend to push more weight down your backside. Take your time choosing what works best for you, ask around, and don't forget those bike shorts and chamois cream. In the end, your gluteus maximus and your traveling companions will thank you!

photos by Terry and Brooks

--

ON THE ROAD is posted each Tuesday by Sarah Raz, Adventure Cycling's Tours Specialist and Intrepid Traveler, and shines a spotlight on the daily delights that take place on Adventure Cycling Tours.

0 comments:

Post a Comment

We appreciate your comments! We encourage lively discussion and dissent. Constructive criticism is welcome. However, if your comment flames the author or topic, or is considered spam, it will be deleted.