Originally Posted by
tony_merlino
I've now tilted the seat up a little, and, after three rides, I'd say it's better - not perfect, but better. But I still can't just forget about it - still have to keep changing my position, standing, etc, to avoid tingling. And I don't mean every once in a while - I mean I need to change my position every minute or so, and stand up to let the pins-and-needles subside every couple of minutes. I was figuring that this just goes with the territory of being 60-70 lbs heavier than I was when I used to ride a lot more. Now, I'm wondering if that's true.
I think I'd like to try your solution. Did you approach it in gradual stages? I set the height of the saddle using the method of putting my heel on the pedal at the 6 o'clock position, and setting the height such that my leg was almost straight, but not locked. (This is what I was taught.) As far as the fore-aft position of the saddle, I always just sort of eyeballed KOPS, with me sitting in the saddle and looking straight down over my knee at the pedal (never really used a plumb-bob). Did you depart significantly from these guidelines?
I've been considering something like a Selle-Anatomica saddle, but before trying a gear-oriented fix, I'd like to experiment with making some adjustments to what I have.
KOPS by eyeballing, but KOPS slightly behind the spindle for a bike I ride upright is the norm for me. The saddle itself makes a big difference, many are designed for a rotated pelvis position and those heavily padded things are simply montrosities. I guess the default recommendation for upright riding is a B17 with the nose slightly tilted up. (Most of the saddles I ride on fast bikes would be pure torture if I tried to ride upright, they are designed for another purpose.) I think overall fitness is big factor as well...when I started riding years ago I suffered all kinds of seat / position issues at first, then again when going over 60 miles. Now, I don't give it much thought...even if it's 8-10 hours in the saddle. So, I would lean toward the conclusion that assuming your saddle choice and its position is in the ballpark, you need saddle time and some improvement your general fitness to get where you want to go. I would also be nervous about getting a bike fit from someone skilled at putting riders in a "optimal" position, you may not like that idea so much.
Also, if you stand when you accelerate and over short grades you will get fitter faster, and you improve circulation.. standing can be your friend.