Whether you ride a beach cruiser, a mountain bike, a ten-speed, or a Peloton, having a comfortable bike seat can make all the difference to your bike-based workout. Many stationary bikes have no suspension, which can make a soft seat feel firmer, and a firm seat feel downright uncomfortable. Even if your bike has superior suspension, it can only absorb so much impact, which means any added comfort depends on the softness of the seat. And the quality of a stock bike seat made to fit an average rider isn’t likely to be a size or softness that suits your comfort level. A custom bike seat is the solution! Depending on your riding style and your physical requirements, it might take a little trial and error to find a bike seat that works for you. Here’s a list of five possibilities that have been custom chosen for their quality, size, and comfort.
Once you have the right bike seat to suit your needs, you’ll need to tackle installation and adjustments. If your seat of choice doesn’t include tools for installation, be sure to have some on hand to remove the hardware and attach your new seat. Adjust the tilt to accommodate your riding style and remember to raise or lower the seat post to allow for the extra padding that may change the reach of your legs when riding. And don’t forget to tighten everything up once you’ve finished so your seat stays put when you peddle. Think of the whole process as a necessary upgrade that helps you enjoy your bike in a new way. You’ll find riding a much more pleasant workout when you have the right seat for your…well, for your seat!
