HOW DO I CHOOSE SADDLE WIDTH?

Understanding the importance of saddle width

Saddle width is not just about comfort—it directly affects your posture, pedaling efficiency, and risk of injury. An improperly sized saddle can cause numbness, chafing, or long-term discomfort. Choosing the correct width ensures proper support for your sit bones.

Sit bone anatomy

The sit bones, or ischial tuberosities, are the primary points of contact with your saddle. Their width varies among riders, and measuring them accurately is the first step to selecting a suitable saddle.

Impact on performance

A saddle that’s too narrow concentrates pressure and can reduce pedaling efficiency, while one that’s too wide can rub your inner thighs and impede leg movement. Correct width balances comfort and biomechanics for better cycling performance.

• Supports sit bones properly

• Prevents chafing and discomfort

• Improves pedaling efficiency

• Reduces risk of numbness and injury

How to measure your sit bone width

Accurately measuring your sit bones is the most reliable way to choose the correct saddle width. Measurements can be done at home with simple tools or at professional bike shops.

Home measurement methods

Sit on a piece of corrugated cardboard or memory foam and mark the points where your sit bones make impressions. Measure the distance between these points in millimeters to determine your ideal saddle width.

Professional fitting options

Many bike shops offer professional saddle fitting with tools like pressure mapping and adjustable rails. These methods can identify subtle differences in posture, helping select a saddle width tailored to your anatomy.

• Use a foam or cardboard test at home

• Measure sit bone width in millimeters

• Consider professional bike fitting services

• Test pressure points on different saddles

Choosing width based on riding style

Saddle width should also match your riding style. Different types of cycling, posture, and duration of rides influence how wide or narrow your saddle should be.

Road cycling

Road cyclists often ride in a forward-leaning position, which shifts weight onto the sit bones and requires a slightly narrower saddle to allow unrestricted leg movement while maintaining support.

Mountain biking

Mountain bikers often need more support and stability due to rough terrain and varied positions. A saddle slightly wider than a road bike may provide better comfort and prevent side-to-side sliding.

Commuting and leisure rides

For upright riding, such as commuting or leisure cycling, a wider saddle supports more body weight on the sit bones and reduces pressure on the perineal area, enhancing comfort for longer rides.

• Road bikes: slightly narrower for aerodynamics

• Mountain bikes: moderate width for stability

• Upright bikes: wider for comfort

• Consider ride duration and frequency