Finally got my bike, scared to get on it!

[ny biker]

The stock Bontrager saddles that come with new bikes tend to be uncomfortable for just about everyone. There are other Bontrager saddles that you can buy that might be more comfortable. I've tried several of them and have found that none has the right shape/topography for me. But some women do like them.

As Muirenn suggested, it's worth it to read the various saddle threads here, to get an idea of how to measure your sit bones and figure out whether you need a saddle with a cutout.

Good luck!!

[Roadtrip]

I was beginning to think that I was the only one here that rode a Bontrager saddle... it's a Satellite Gel saddle that isn't too cushy. The first times I rode my Trek FX I was in agony after only a quarter mile. That was until I lowered the seat. Having the seat too high put too much pressure on all my bits and wasn't pleasant at all.

Seat like the stock one here on this Gary Fisher is what I ended up with on my Trek FX named "Louisville"



With that said I have been wondering about the Brooks saddles and what that's all about and even put a B17 on my wish list, but me don't thinks Santa will be bringing that, at least not this year.

Shannon

[ny biker]

Having the seat too high put too much pressure on all my bits and wasn't pleasant at all.

Good point -- I've had the same experience. Proper saddle position can make a big difference.

[bcipam]

Don't assume we all get on a bike and the saddle is wonderfully comfortable. In almost 40 years of riding, I have never had a comfortable saddle nor have my friends.

That said, it is a matter of conditioning. If I am riding alot (like in the summer) the saddle won't start to bother me until I've gone 40 - 50 miles. Right now, riding only weekends, the saddle bothers me much sooner (last weekend - as soon as I got on!).

I've tried all the saddles out there. I think its a rite of passage for us bike riders. I've settled on the Terry Butterfly (Ti) as being the most comfortable out there. It's not that wide but its not narrow; just right (for me). Then there is the whole idea of positioning... is the saddle tilted up or down too much, should it go forward or back? Is the seat post height correct? Where exactly is the saddle bothering you?

Something to consider is getting a professional fitting. A good fitter can address all these issues for you. If you can afford it or find someone local, do some research on line.

But bottom line you just need to ride the bike. Do short distances and allow everything to used to the wear and tear. As you ride more (and that is the key) things will get easier. Right now at your weight everything is going to be hard. I admire that you want to get out and do something about it. I struggle with weight as well (5'8" - 230) and there are times I just struggle while my skinny friends have no problems (hate them!). But I keep at it and every week find myself getting stronger and more use to the bike.

[Bike Writer]

I was beginning to think that I was the only one here that rode a Bontrager saddle...

You're not the only one. I bought one towards the end of the riding year and love it.

[hebe]

Any update, Sillz? Enquiring minds would like to know if you've been out on that beautiful bike again

I have found arnica tablets to be very good for after-ride soreness, especially if you take a couple as soon as you get back.

[Sillz]

Any update, Sillz? Enquiring minds would like to know if you've been out on that beautiful bike again

I have found arnica tablets to be very good for after-ride soreness, especially if you take a couple as soon as you get back.

I actually have not even had a chance to ride it yet! It has rained almost every day since I bought it and when it is not raining it is really windy and freezing cold! I think I'm going to get an indoor trainer for Christmas so I can get used to my seat faster.

Thanks for checking on me though, I appreciate you thinking of me.

[hebe]

I hope you didn't mind me asking I have friends in Seattle and I'd seen their posts on facebook about the rain, so did think maybe the weather was stopping you.

[NbyNW]

Welcome to TE and hope you get some better weather to enjoy your beautiful bike!