On yesterday's ride my left calf started cramping occasionally around mile 30. I stretched it out by planting my heel and then leaning forward as far as possible, fine-tuning the pressure using my arms to control my angle leaning against a tree.

• It seemed to help but is there something better to do?

I kept cramping occasionally and had to repeat this process about 6 more times over the next 30 miles.
[I screwed up by not drinking enough water - 3 bottles of water, 1 of cider - it was about 75 but I was riding fairly slowly and making several long (30 minute) stops - sculpture museum, hot rod car show, pizza place, farm stand.]

Unfortunately the tale has a sad ending! [Very punny!] I was trying out a new saddle, a Selle Italia Max Flite, to see if I had finally found a comfy perch and the answer was NO!