San Diego Newbie! Chafing Question??

[Kalidurga]

This has been mentioned before in similar threads, but either shaving or a close trim can also help. I notice a huge reduction in chafing when I *ahem* mow the lawn. If your condition is as severe as it sounds, that could also assist with treating and healing, in that it could help to reduce sweat and bacteria in that area.

As for a cutout saddle, it probably depends on what sort of riding you intend to do. Saddles vary from big cushy comfort models to thin, practically non-existent racing models. Are you planning to ride your Xenith for fun and recreation, or do you intend to work up to long distances &/or racing? That'll have a lot of influence on your saddle choice.

[drewkari]

As for a cutout saddle, it probably depends on what sort of riding you intend to do. Saddles vary from big cushy comfort models to thin, practically non-existent racing models. Are you planning to ride your Xenith for fun and recreation, or do you intend to work up to long distances &/or racing? That'll have a lot of influence on your saddle choice.

I am riding for fun/exercise, but it will eventually be long distances.

[Ninabike]

If you check out the "Saddles" treads, you will see many posts regarding preferences for saddles. A softer, saddle is not necessarily better in the long run. The softer the saddle, the more the saddle material squishes up into your soft tissue. What you want is a saddle that your "sit bones" (ishial tuberosities) fit properly onto without impacting your soft tissue. Some people prefer a cutout which relieves pressure in the frontal area. Other people do not. Personally, I like the Specialized Jett (size 143 for me). The sit bone area of that saddle is hard, but there is no pressure on the soft tissue. By the same token, there are others on this board who can't stand the Jett. Each person has to find what works for them. Don't be surprised if you go through multiple saddles. A good fitting is also a must, as the angle of your body on the saddle, affected by reach, etc. has a lot to do with saddle comfort.

[Biciclista]

also, if the bike is not fitting you properly, the BEST saddle would cause chafing. Make sure that the saddle is positioned in the best place for you and that the bike is not too big.

[wolfak]

I did a 15-miler tonight without my regular chamois butt'r and am hurting! Every time from now on! I might consider some hair removal as well.

[drewkari]

also, if the bike is not fitting you properly, the BEST saddle would cause chafing. Make sure that the saddle is positioned in the best place for you and that the bike is not too big.

Fortunately the shop we got the bikes from does a professional fit, and measured angles and adjusted fit before they let you walk out the door. I'm thinking it is probably the saddle

[RolliePollie]

Sounds like trying a new saddle might help a lot. Also, some type of lubrication...Chamois Butt'r or just plain lotion. When I started riding last year, I thought my "hoo hah" would never be the same. I had to wear skirts to work for a week until everything healed. Then I got a Terry Butterfly saddle and started lubing myself up.

This season I've discovered Queen Helene Cocoa Butter lotion...it's super cheap,it works great, smells pretty good, and washes out of my shorts easily. I use A TON. I put it on my chamois and on me. I've also used baby lotions, Astroglide, and Vaseline Intensive Care. Strangely enough, Chamois Butt'r irritates my skin...maybe it's the lanolin? Anyway, lotion would be an easy thing to try out. I tried "mowing the lawn" but that actually made things worse for me.

[wildhawk]

I had similar problems until I changed out the saddle - I went with a gel/foam cutout (Rav-X) and it is very comfortable. I have not used any chamois butter yet, but I haven’t encountered any chafing even after a twenty mile ride, so I will add it when I begin to need it. We are all built differently so it is hard to recommend a solution - try out different saddles is what I would recommend. Also, my saddle needed to be angled up slightly in the front and now it is a perfect fit for me. Good luck - I know how painful that chafing can be! And congrats on your new bike!