Choose the right saddle width: How to sit really well on your (e-)mountain bike

The saddle is one of the most important contact points between rider and bike - and also one of the most common causes of discomfort. Pressure points, numbness or pain are often not caused by "the wrong saddle", but by the wrong width. Making the right choice here will noticeably improve comfort, efficiency and riding enjoyment - whether on a mountain bike or e-MTB. The right saddle width is no coincidence, but the result of measurement, riding position and riding style. Anyone who takes the time to determine their sit bone distance or carry out a bike fitting will be rewarded with significantly more comfort and less discomfort.

Why the saddle width is so important

When sitting on a bike, the so-called sit bones should bear the majority of the weight. This is the only way to relieve sensitive soft tissue. If the saddle is too narrow, the sit bones sink sideways - the pressure moves to areas that are not designed for this. If it is too wide, it can cause friction and chafing. The right width therefore ensures that the pressure is optimally distributed, the power is efficiently transferred to the pedals and long rides are possible without discomfort. The most important value for choosing the saddle width is your individual sit bone distance. You can determine this in various ways:

• At the specialised dealer: Many bike shops offer measuring systems where you sit on a special cushion. The imprints show exactly how far apart your sit bones are.
• At home: The distance can also be roughly determined using corrugated cardboard or aluminium foil - a simple but effective method.

The driving style plays a decisive role

The optimum saddle width depends heavily on how you sit on the bike - and this in turn is determined by your riding style. Therefore, depending on your riding position, add a few millimetres to the calculated distance to determine the right saddle width. An upright, comfort-orientated riding position is typical for leisurely tours or many e-MTB riders. The pelvis is relatively straight and the sit bones bear a lot of weight. This can make a slightly wider saddle useful. In a sporty trail position, bikers sit slightly tilted forwards, actively on the bike. The pelvis tilts forwards and the pressure is distributed slightly differently. This can make a medium saddle width ideal. Very sporty bikers and cross-country racers usually prefer a strongly stretched position with a lot of pressure on the pedals for propulsion. This puts less weight on the saddle and requires more freedom of movement. In this case, a rather narrow saddle can be useful.

The professional solution: bike fitting

A professional bike fitting goes one step further. Here, not only the sit bone distance is measured, but the entire sitting position is analysed: From pelvic rotation, upper body tilt and pedalling movement to pressure distribution. The result is a personalised recommendation for saddle width, shape and position. This investment is particularly worthwhile for frequent complaints or long tours.

Special features of the e-mountainbike

E-MTBs are often ridden longer and more relaxed in comparison. At the same time, the motor support means you are in the saddle more often, even uphill. This can mean more sitting time overall and also higher comfort requirements. This is why many e-MTB riders opt for slightly wider and better padded saddles. Nevertheless, the same applies here: The width must match the sit bone distance - not your gut feeling.

Width is not everything

In addition to width, other factors also play a role:

• Saddle shape: Flat or curved
• Recesses: for pressure relief
• Upholstery: not too soft, otherwise the pressure increases

A saddle that is too soft can be counterproductive, as the sit bones sink in deeper and the pressure moves back to sensitive areas. Bikers in particular who tackle long distances with sporty demands are therefore better off choosing a slightly harder saddle. The shape and cut-outs must suit the individual anatomy.

Conclusion

To find the optimum saddle width, I can only recommend: Measure instead of guessing. I had to try out several models, but I found the perfect saddle many years ago. I can sit on it for 20 hours at a time without any major discomfort. Soft and wide equals comfort: that can be a fallacy. Personally, I need a narrow, hard saddle. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

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