Searching for a saddle - what to try next?

[hulagirl]

Trying moving your current saddle forward/backward and tilting as Owlie mentioned above.

If not, you can buy saddles from REI and return them at anytime used for a full refund if you don't like it.

[nscrbug]

Since you are having some relative success with the Toupe, I would say to try either the Specialized Ruby or Jett saddles in the same size - 143. Most Specialized shops have a 30-day return policy (at least the 1 shop near me does) as long as the saddle is BLACK. They won't let you return a white one. That is where I would start. FWIW, I'm currently riding on a Ruby 155 for about a year now.

[Susie Derkins]

Most Specialized shops have a 30-day return policy (at least the 1 shop near me does) as long as the saddle is BLACK. They won't let you return a white one. That is where I would start.

Interesting! Thanks.

[OakLeaf]

Spec' dealers I've dealt with look at me crossways when I ask for a return policy, but I've pointed out to them that ordering from Spec's website gives you that option. I kept the Lithia I asked for the option on, though, so I don't know if they would've actually taken it back or not had push come to shove.

Ruby comes to mind for me too, or maybe a SI Turbomatic (expensive though, and the place I got mine at a deep discount is both out of stock and showing a higher price right at the moment).

[loopybunny]

I have a Specialized Ruby saddle and was immediately in love with it after I tried it in the parking lot so I bought it to try it out on a longer ride. It's worked out quite well so far!

[KnottedYet]

What are your sit-bone measurements?

[bluebug32]

I used the Toupe for a while. It's definitely a hard saddle. Your sit bones will get used to it, but it takes a little time. If you like a plusher saddle, this one probably isn't it.

Is your bike shop fitting you to the saddle? When you say you're moving around a lot, this could be because the saddle needs its fore/aft position adjusted. In general, you don't want to be tipping the saddle up or down to achieve a comfortable fit. This is an indication that the saddle is a bad fit and could lead to other issues (like hand numbness) later on.

Where are you at in Upstate NY? I'm in the Hudson Valley and have a great Specialized dealer, depending on where you are.

[smittykitty]

I am also in the processes of changing out the stock Lithia on my Ruby. Yesterday I rode about 45 miles on a Jett Comp. Much better, but the Angels weren't quite singing. Around mile 25 the sits were a bit sore, then got way better. Some mild tenderness in the "bones" this am, but I feel like I could get right back on and go again today.

I was also a bit aware of my bits. If I remember right, we tilted the Jett on my FX down just a hair. I'm thinking I might try doing that today. The saddle is level. And I think the Lithia was too. My FX is a couple hrs away on loan, so can't check it.

The fitter at lbs thought I might also want to try the Ruby. I know it is highly recommended by many TEers. Wondering what to expect if I were to try the Ruby.

Thanks all.