frugihoyi

The saddle on my new mountain bike is really uncomfortable. Actually, the saddle on my city bike was uncomfortable too. And I'm going on a two week bike tour soon. I won't be able to manage it like this. I don't know what to do about it. I'm not sure if getting a softer seat would solve the problem, maybe I need a different shape or maybe I need those padded biking shorts or maybe some combination of all these things. Biking shorts might help, but I don't want to have to use them on a day-to-day basis while riding around the city. Then there are also those padded seat covers. What do you think I should do? The area around my nuts gets really uncomfortable, but my buttocks are not in paradise either.

Hobartlemagne 

Gel seats are good for confort.

Also- Is there any chance your saddle is too high?

pyroguy_3

Your saddle may also be too low. Getting a softer saddle wont always be the best option either. I just bought a Bontrager something or other, it's hard as a Brooks basically, but it's the most comfortable saddle I've ever owned because it fits. Go to your lbs and ask if they can fit you for a saddle. You'll sit on this bench that indicates where your sit bones are. You could also try a fitting service, if it's available, for your entire bike.

Also check the angle at which your seat is positioned. Check the fore-aft position, your knee should be over the pedal at horizontal foot positions, at least that's how I fit mine and it's worked so far.

Hobartlemagne 

Another saddle comment- yours may be too narrow for your sit-bones.

ProFail

Nope, it will feel good on your sit bones but the padding will push into your soft tissues and make them sore.


Unless, by "Gel" you mean saddles like the Selle Italia Flite Gel Flow, which is epic win.

Bike Lover

Bike shorts are great. Nothing helps more. That being said, there are many items to consider about saddle placement and most settings come down to personal preference (other than the "seat bone" comment). The angle of the seat itself also has a lot to do with comfort. We don't know where the discomfort is so it's difficult to say what's going on but by playing with the adjustments I'd bet you will find something that will work.

Cone Wrench

Try a saddle with a cutout.

scrublover

1. bike shorts.

2. play with your seat height and angle.

2a. don't sit on your nuts.

3. different seat if none of the above works.

rallykid

I learned the hard way on long rides, ditch the boxers and go for something a little more supportive for your treasured items.

frugihoyi

I adjusted my seat again and I think I have it set up pretty well now. I'll also get biking shorts for the long rides.

RT

Cycling shorts with a chamois are a must. Feels like I'm riding on a block of granite if I don't.

And I cannot say enough for the Selle Italia Flite Gel Flow saddle. Got it on deep discount from Performance and it is comfortable without being bulky.

bac

Perhaps his balls are just too low?

... Brad

wolfbrother

I might recommend a brooks b17 for the bike tour (assuming it's a road tour?). I don't think I'd use one on an mtb, but I put one on one of my road bikes and it's the most comfortable saddle I've ever used. Put a few miles on it before the tour, though, so it forms to your butt.

JamesDaniels

Change the saddle man or go to the doctor!

Old School

OK, this where "briefs" win over "boxers" every time! You need support, my man!

legalize

I do fine with boxers. And I don't feel as lame, either. Maybe you're sitting on the seat with your balls. I don't get it.

Ducky

I bought a seat, which resembles a seat from the 50's. Its a little wider than my stock seat on my Trek, and its a little shorter I think... Its pretty close to the same size leangth wise... but its got two actual springs under the padding. Its about 15yrs old now and man, that seat ROCKS above all else! Over the years I have tried a bunch of different seats, and this one, hands down, is the best!

Ducky

it squeaks a little bit when riding, but I think that has to do with the fact that it sat on a shelf for almost 10yrs. But it is the most comfortable seat I have ever sat on.

I know it looks a bit ********, but hell, my ass dont hurt and thats what matters!