Plow13

So I got a new saddle last year and I didn't race on it at all. I probably have 1500-2000 miles on it and I like it. Today was my first crit of the year and after about 20 minutes in, I started to go numb down there. I know you slide up a bit while racing but do you think a small tilt downwards is what I need to do?

Campag4life

It doesn't make a lot of sense really. Crits are high exertion and that means a lot of pedal force which typically unweights a rider. I can see getting numb when out training with long hours in the saddle with lower exertion.

Typically tilting a saddle down is a bad idea. Some do it but it puts more weight on the hands and can contribute to more sit bone pain because the rear of the saddle is more kicked up.

What kind of saddle do you ride? I suggest finding a saddle like a Specialized...I am testing the Toupe this spring which has a cutout. This makes a big difference and promotes the proper pelvis forward and a straighter back riding posture.
Whatever you do, change your set up. Numbness shouldn't be tolerated...not good for you.

mkadam68

Make sure you're rising out of the saddle occasionally and stretching. I find that when in crits, due to concentrating on the race, I forget to do this. When I'm training or "just riding" I'm out of the saddle much more often.

BruceGr

Try tilting down. Nothing to lose. If you are cycling faster at higher cadences and spending more time on the drops, then down tilt will help ease pressure on your perineum. You won't slide forwards dramatically if you use your arms for support and focus on making circles with your legs.

ahumblecycler

I tilt all my saddles down between .6 and 1.2 degrees (yes I have a digital balance).

Campag4life

While Bruce is right, tilting a saddle down is a bandaid for an improper fit. Virtually all top riders ride with a level if not one degree or so nose up which translates to the rear of the saddle being level where you rest your pelvis.