What comes to mind when you think about your next bike ride?  If you are like most, you think of scenic spots and fun in the sun.

Intrusive thoughts about bike seat comfort and potential maintenance might also creep in.

Let’s face it.  The comfort of your bike seat plays a big part in the quality of your outdoor ride.

Here’s how to maximize that comfort.

1. Upgrade to a New Seat

Standard bike seats are designed for economic efficiency as opposed to physical comfort.  Upgrade to a new bike saddle and you’ll minimize soreness and chafing during those lengthy rides.

Take a close look at the seat on your bike and you’ll likely find it’s made of plastic, steel and/or leather.  Each of these materials is uncomfortable.

There’s no need to buy a completely new bike.  Check out the bicycling accessory market for alternatives.  You’ll find ergonomic options including those with foam lining and other comfy niceties.

2. Maintain the Bike Seat

Every bike seat deteriorates in due time.  Be proactive to maximize the lifespan and comfort of your seat.  Use saddle soap to clean the seat, ensuring it retains its shape for optimal comfort.

Add a little bit of leather conditioner after cleaning the seat with soap.  The conditioner keeps the material soft to minimize tearing and cracking.

The last piece of the bike seat cleaning puzzle is saddle cream.  Apply oil-based cream to the leather and perimeter for a soft surface and edges.

3. Mind the Seat Padding Thickness

No two bike seats are exactly the same.  In particular, seats differ by padding thickness.  Some riders automatically assume the thickest padding is the best.

If the padding is too thick, it will add unnecessary pressure.  Such pressure makes the cycling experience uncomfortable and that much more challenging.  Test out different padding thicknesses and you might find a thinner cushion is superior.

4. Position Yourself Properly

The subtleties of cycling seats matter.  The ideal sitting position is a balanced one.  Resist the temptation to sit completely upright with the entirety of your weight on the saddle.  Such positioning results in back pain and a sore derriere.

It is also a mistake to sit toward the front of the seat as it pressures nerves that reduce blood flow and cause discomfort.  Strive for a balanced happy medium between the two extremes and you’ll ride in comfort.

5. Wear Padded Cycling Shorts

Cycling shorts with padding are lightweight, tight and comfy.  The best padded cycling shorts are made of specialized moisture-wicking fabric such as spandex or nylon.

Sift through the options on the market and you’ll find some even have soft padding in the crotch area called a chamois pad.  These unique shorts cushion your rear end and crotch while preventing the inner part of the thighs from contacting the seat.

The end result?  Comfort without chafing, rashes, scrapes or worse.

Lotz Has Your Outdoor Needs Covered

When it comes to thriving in the great outdoors, turn to Lotz for biking gear.  We invite you to create an account today.

Start shopping, referring and earning 5% off biking and other purchases along with discounts today!