Originally Posted by
Jay_M
Hello fellow friends, I currently weight 330 pounds at 5ft 10 Inches. A stroke or heart attack away from leaving this planet and family behind. I bought a used trek bike that holds my weight comfortably and was excited to ride but immediately started having bad problems with chafing and saddle discomfort to the point of I can no longer ride. Please help what should I get to help ? Don’t know which saddle or what biking shorts or what I should do ? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
I would say be patient with yourself.
At 330 you are twice the weight of many riders who weight 165, yet you share the same anatomical features that rest on the saddle ie. the "sit bones". Most people have to acclimatize their butts so yours will take longer as there is more pressure being exerted on them. The advice of regular but shorter rides with some rest time between is good.
For chaffing try some baby powder and non cotton shorts, or other material that clings or retains moisture. Nylon shorts with nylon underwear helps the fabric to slide if you can't find dedicated bike shorts.
Try those for a bit before spending more to hunt for the right saddle etc... Many find that to be a long process and you should try to get over the initial acclimation process first.
Ps. Good for you for getting out there!