In searching the forum posts, I have seen that a lot of people have replaced their saddles in the past. I didn't however, find many recommendations on models.

I'm looking to replace my saddle on my commuter bike (Trek 700), and would appreciate any model/style suggestions, anecdotes, personal history, observations.

I ride 5 miles each way to and from work, and errands within a mile or two of home. I'm not planning on going back to bike shorts or padded undershorts, yet, so, I'm leaning toward well padded and elevated bone perches.

Thanks for any help.

Jonathan

If the price dosent scare you, try a specialized body geometry.
I bought one of these two years ago and have never been sorry since.

Steve.

Or is that never been sore, since!?:D

Jonathan,

I use a "cheapo" Body Geometry and I really like the way it supports my "sit bones". I am sure that some day, when I get more experience, I will learn of better seats. But I am very content right now. My seat is, however,
much firmer than you have mentioned your preference should be.

Pete :)

Do you have the SBG "Comp" or the "Sport" model? My guess is the Comp, since you mention price. It was $100, while the Sport seems to have a street price of $39 ($29 on sale).

Thanks. These both look like good contenders.

Jonathan

Thanks, Pete.

I wondered about the cheaper models of the Body Geometry. I think if the seat is split like the BGs are, I shouldn't have too much trouble. My ride is short enough that having the split in the middle like many newer seats, incl. the Body Geometry, the seam in my work clothes shouldn't abraid too much.

Thanks.

Jonathan

I find that for shorter rides, any clothing works, but I would avoid saddles with stitched pattern.

The most comfortable saddle is a firm one that is shaped to fit your rear-end configuration, and support your sit bones. It may not work for someone of a different shape, so personal recomendations should be viewed with caution.

Like many old-timers, I like Brookes leather saddles. If you have the patience for a few weeks break-in period (much less painfull than people suggest), you will have a saddle that is custom moulded and will last for years.
For more upright riding, the sprung models are good, but for most riding the Professional or B17 models work well. B17s have bag loops for fitting proper full-sized saddle bags.

I second the Brooks leather saddle recommendation. All my bikes have them. Nothing looks better, either.

I have a not so expensive body geometry seat, and I really love it. Some of the guys I work with refer to it as the butt wistle seat, and I think that is really funny.

Thanks, everyone.

Yesterday, over lunch, I went to the LBS to have my PowerGrip pedals installed. As I pulled out onto the main road to head back to work, I saw a 2 inch chunk of foam flip off the front of my saddle. Apparently, the friction from my accellerating twisted it off where the cover had worn away. Needless to say, I needed to hasten my quest for a new saddle.

I went to my LBS and tried a few. I ended up getting a Trico Sport saddle with raised ischia support, and split center. It is much more comfortable than my blown out Trek seat.

I had wanted to try out the Body Geometry, but none of my LBSes had any. They were happy to tell me about the *other* ones that are similar. I noticed Nashbar has both the Body Geometry saddles on sale. I have thought of ordering one, just in case.

Thanks!

Jonathan

The Serfas RX saddle has been great for me. The split saddle design is really functional and comfortable.

A little late, but the old machine has been down.
I have the sport model of the body geometry, a little high but the old back parts like it so well I think its worth it.!

Steve.

I have a FloLite "Liquid" WaveFlo saddle on my old Nishiki road bike and have liked it a lot. It may be similar to the Specialized saddles mentioned here. It learns your contours and remembers them. It's not squishy but gives good support. Really pretty remarkable.

I don't know if it's still made--mine is pretty old.