If you’ve been riding for a long time, you know that it’s not only spin bikes that have uncomfortable seats!
Most bike seats on road bikes and mountain bikes are also uncomfortable to sit on when riding. Most of the time, it could be the saddle that is causing the discomfort. However, to find the source of the discomfort, you need to understand why saddles have their unique shape.
The saddle shape determines how your weight is distributed when cycling. Saddles are long and narrow to help cyclists spin faster and get more out of their workout. A wider saddle would hinder your movement when cycling on a spin bike or a road bike. Too much padding on the saddle will also limit your pedaling.
What Causes Spinning Bike Seats To Be Uncomfortable?
Bike seats can be uncomfortable due to several reasons. You might not have had the chance to test out the spin bike at the store. Or, you need more time to adjust to your new spin bike. We made a list of other reasons why your bike seat is uncomfortable for you.
Saddle Size and Shape
Bike saddles are different from seats because they are not meant to carry your entire weight. When on a spin bike, the majority of your weight should be on the pedals. Aside from the weird shape of bike saddles, they are stiff and skinny. You will find it surprising that hard and narrow bike saddles are more comfortable when on your spin bike.
The contact point between you and the spin bike is your sit bones. These bones are necessary to keep you in position when cycling. You need to distribute your weight, but getting wide seats may cause more discomfort than needed. The nose at the front of the seat is also narrow in shape to offer more room for your thighs when riding. There are different saddle sizes, so you should try them out to get the ideal one for you.
Related article – Why Does My Bike Seat Keep Coming Loose?
Proper Form
As a first-time rider, you might not have the proper form or stamina to stay on the spin bike for long periods. You are more likely to sit further into the seat, which causes discomfort. The saddle soreness will last a few weeks before your body adjusts to the saddle. If you are still experiencing soreness, you might have the wrong saddle size, or it is not well fitted for you.
Cushioned Seats
This part of the saddle has to do with your personal preference. Some cyclists may prefer padding on their bike seats, while others may find it very uncomfortable. You can either have seats with gel or foam padding. New riders might prefer to start with seats with a lot of padding.
They will probably end up changing to more rigid bike seats later on. You should avoid getting too soft or wide seats that can lead to aches and chafing in the long run. Gel padding can also deform over time which makes the seat uneven and cause more discomfort!
Related article – Can Indoor Cycling Help Improve My Running?
How To Make Your Spinning Bike Seat More Comfortable
Here’s the secret – you don’t have to buy a new spin bike to be comfortable the next time you want to get on your spin bike! Here are some ways to make your spin bike seat more comfortable.
Proper Cycling Gear
You can get away with wearing your gym clothes during the first couple of rides on your spin bike. However, for indoor cycling, you need more specific cycling gear like a pair of cycling shorts.
Bib shorts are popular and comfortable at the waist when cycling for long periods. These padded shorts are better at staying in place and minimize the risk of saddle sores.
Padded Seat Cover
If you are experiencing saddle sores and are thinking about changing your bike seat, a seat cover could be the solution you need.
Seat covers are removable and come in various sizes and textures. These covers can make your seat slightly wider to better distribute your body weight when you are starting. It makes adjusting to the hardness of the bike saddle easier and cheaper.
Proper Bike Set-Up
As soon as you get your spin bike, you need to make sure the adjustments are suitable for you. It will help if you position the handlebars to the same level or slightly higher than the saddle to ride comfortably. If your handlebars are too high or too low, you end up leaning too forward on the spin bike when riding.
Adjusting the saddle can also help when it comes to comfort. Try moving the saddle up, down, and level it with your hip. The angle saddle also matters. When the saddle is too far forward, you end up sliding forward. This angle puts more pressure on your wrists which causes discomfort when cycling.
Consistent Cycling
Experienced cyclists will tell you that saddle soreness doesn’t last long, and over time you will get used to it. No matter how you feel after your first ride, this is true. Your first ride on the saddle will likely be uncomfortable, but as you make progress, your body will adjust. Your sit bones will be more accustomed to the saddle shape the more you keep on riding.
Incorporating standing intervals when on your spin bike can add to your comfort. Standing when cycling helps relieve pressure on your sit bones while diversifying your workout routine.
Standing intervals is also a great way to mimic outdoor cycling on a road or mountain bike. After consistent cycling for a couple of weeks, you might not even notice any pain or soreness.
Related article – How To Convert Exercise Bike Miles To Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get used to spinning bike seats?
If you are a regular rider, it will take you less time to get used to your spinning bike seat. A little discomfort is expected when riding a new spin bike.
If you are new to spin bikes, it can take a couple of weeks before you get comfortable cycling on the bike seat. The discomfort also depends on how much time you spend on the spin bike. The more time spent on the bike, the faster you get accustomed to the seat.
How do you sit comfortably on a spinning bike seat?
To be more comfortable when sitting on your spin bike, you need to make sure the saddle is even and adjust it to the right height for you. Wearing the right workout gear like a pair of bike shorts can also make you more comfortable riding your spin bike.
Does bike seat pain go away?
It is usual for your bottom to feel sore, especially after a long ride. Bike seat pain will go away after some time off the spin bike.
Saddle soreness may, however, last longer than a couple of days. If you get a saddle sore, you can use antiseptic cream or ice to help ease the pain or swelling. If the pain does not go away over time, you should see a doctor.
Final Words
Spinning bike seats are uncomfortable the first time you start riding. You’ll need time to get used to the spin bike seat. It might take a few days or weeks, depending on your consistency. Don’t let bike seat soreness stop you from getting in that daily workout!
If the soreness persists, you should try adjusting the saddle height and angle for more comfort. Another solution could also be changing your workout gear to bibs or more comfortable cycling shorts. If the discomfort persists, you can speak to bike specialists or your spin class instructor to find the best solution!
Related article – How To Make Your Bike Seat More Comfortable
