Road Cycling - Saddle Wear

Is it normal for the saddle to get worn n perhaps tear off gradually at the sides after usage? Using the stock selle san marco on the trek OCLVs and have noticed these signs... :(

How many miles have you put on it?

had around 5000km on it

I certainly don't think it should be starting to break up after 5000km. You should be seeing minimal signs of wear but nothing like tearing.

I had a real cheap saddle on my bike and it started to crack and break down after about 15000km.

Even a stock selle san marco should give you better wear than that.

hmmz then what could be the cuase of it ? seems that there is more wear on the left side of the saddle.. the little cut is on the left as well... can sweat cause it ?

Can you post a picture of the saddle?

unfortunately no .. dun have a digi cam ... the wear is at thebottom side edges leading towards the front(tip) of the saddle...

Maybe this is too simple, but could it be the case that while pedalling your legs rub against the saddle? That easily happens, especially if you like to sit 'backward' (or have enormous thighs ;) ). And you don't always notice it.

If one side shows more wear, it might be that the saddle is not perfectly 'centered'.

Good luck!

hmm but dont the legs always rub against the saddle as we pedal?

Originally posted by SniperX
hmm but dont the legs always rub against the saddle as we pedal?

Errr... Good point. :blush:

Let's say that in some positions they rub more than in others. Okay? Just trying not to entirely lose my face here :-)

i guess the only conclusion that i can come out with is that the selle san marco aspide doesnt last =|

Originally posted by SniperX
i guess the only conclusion that i can come out with is that the selle san marco aspide doesnt last =|
Sorry, but I respectfully disagree.
your legs should NOT be rubbing the sides of the
saddle.
You should get more than 5k Kilometers from a saddle
like the aspide. Some folks are still riding 50+ year old
Brooks saddles, 30+ year old Cinelli Unicanitors, and
25+ y/o concors.
(see, I didn't just tout Brooks!)

Marty

but isnt it kinda unavoidable... when u pedal yr legs are actully moving up n down.. theres bound to be friction

yeah i agree... i have really thick thighs.... there's no way i could avoid rubbing except by spreading my legs open while riding.... LOL and I highly doubt that would be comfortable or efficient!

heck... my thighs TOUCH when I am just standing up straight!!