Bike Forums - Is numbness normal?

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Quote:

Originally Posted by KristenGilbert

I've been riding 12 miles every day for almost a month, finally got past the sore butt and now I'm developing numbness in my groin area during my ride. I have a women's bike so I assumed the factory bike seat would be for women in particular. Is this due to me doing something wrong or is that just how it is? To not get sore butt anymore, I adjusted the seat pretty high because I have short legs. Any recommendations?

I set my saddle with a level to be level.

Recently I purchased a new bicycle; which has a WTB saddle with a lot of curves; which made it difficult to level. The front of the saddle would rub and irratate my groin after about 15 miles. I have since adjusted the nose of the saddle down a very slight amount and viola! no problem at all on a 45 miles ride yesterday.

I prefer a small racing type saddle that doesn't rub me anywhere; rather just a place to sit. It seems to be the most comfortable on long rides.

Anyway saddles and saddle position is one of the most personal items in cycling.

I get a similar thing, i get it after around 30 minutes and it feels like i got nothing down there! I might adjust my seat down when i get a new one :P.

-Ben

Quote:

Originally Posted by velogirl

We're here for questions, so ask away. By the way, you might want to invest in some padded cycling shorts. I wouldn't skimp on them. You touch your bike in three places: hands, netherregions, and feet. Take care of them all (and your head-wear a helmet).

No doubt! Get yourself some nice cycling specific shorts and feel the difference. Now, you don't have to go blow your paycheck on a pair, but a really nice pair will go a long way in terms of comfort. I know there is a women's forum section somewhere around here, so hop in there and get some feedback.

If you don't already know about the women's section, pm Koffee Brown for entrance. She'll show you the secret handshake and everything!

I never get numb on the crotch but have occasionally on the fingers. But...by moving the seat down a bit to more even with the bars, you are not leaning into the bars, thus not numbing your fingers. I would think the same holds true with seat. If you seat is pointing down, then your butt is sliding always downwards...thus putting pressure on your crotch,...numbing the little goodies down there.

Might just try adjusting the seat....

Buy a pair of bike shorts with a cushy chamois. I have a Pearl Izumi pair and they are worth every penny. If you are riding 12 miles daily you'll need bike shorts eventually since they make a world of difference on your sensitive bits. Make sure you go commando underneath them though, underwear is not recommended. They wick away moisture and have an anti bacterial lining, since you don't want an infection and numbness!