Question for Bike Riders

gabriel0915

Hey ladies,

I just got a new Trek about 2 days ago and have gone riding the past 2 days. My silly question is, how long until that seat stops hurting your butt? I thought I would cry getting off my bike today. FI thinks it's funny, it is, a little, but it seriously hurts. I got capris that have the cushion pads (which I used to laugh at FI for, but now understand completely). I'm definitely not giving up, but I'm ready for my tush not too hurt!

msuprincess04

Start with shorter rides and work your way up to longer ones. You should get used it pretty quickly. If not, then you may just need a new seat. I bought a Trek tri bike at the end of last season and I've only ridden it twice so far. Yes, a little sore after each ride, but it's better every time.

gabriel0915

That's what I was thinking but didn't know if anyone had other experiences. Something about Trek, they don't make a comfy seat lol.

anna.oskar

Every spring/summer it takes me about 2 weeks or riding before I manage to toughen up the old skin again.  I tend to wear an extra pair of shorts for added padding.

Lobsters25

What type of shorts do you have (brand and level of padding)?  I recently upgraded my shorts and it was pretty much the best decision I've ever made.

And are you using the seat that came with the bike?  I had to replace the seat on my old Trek, but so far am having no problems with the one on my 2011 model.

gabriel0915

I bought the Nikishi biking capris. I'm not sure the level of padding. I just went somewhere I knew I could buy them so I could bike today. I know they aren't the best but they are pretty comfy and cute (I know, that's doesn't really matter). FI just bought it for me on Tuesday so I haven't changed the seat. I wanted to see if it would break in before I went and bought a new seat.

Lobsters25

It's likely that you'll adjust to the seat just fine.  I would recommend stepping up the brand of biking shorts and trying quite a few pairs on.  There are different levels of padding according to intensity/distance level, and each brand tends to style the padding a little differently.  It's sort of like finding the perfect running shoe - everyone needs extra cushioning in different places.

To get you through in the interim, watch your posture on the bike.  Most people accidentally slide up on the seat as they ride, which really makes for an uncomfortable time.  Every now and then, just check in with yourself and make sure your rear is pushed back toward the back of the seat.

RailWayWife

I use a Gel Seat Pad. Much nicer for long rides

BlackRose21

i have a cushion seat on mine it works very well! i suggest tht kinda seat! 

lozza116

Saddle soreness is common when you first start out - but the seat plays a huge part! I rode on a saddle for a year that was all wrong and changed mine to balance my sit bones better and also with a cut out to help reduce pressure on the sensetive areas - helped me a lot! Good quality padded shorts help as some of the ladies have mentioned

Stick at it and build slowly!

lorisamarie23

Also, try Chamois Butter Euro - it sounds funny but makes a WORLD of difference...

Ninanita

I had a pair of bike shorts with padding that actually made it worse. They were probably to warm or the seams were at a sensitive spot. I would suggest that you wear your bike shorts at your desk for a while or go running with them, just to see if they actually chafe. Also, you know that you cannot have anything between your skin and the chamois? No panties, liner, nothing.
BTW, I am just fine without chamois at least for rides under 4 hours, maybe my seat fits me very well. I feel much better when the moisture is quickly wicked away and does not have to through the chamois. Less chafing, I guess.