More and more manufacturers want to help us bikers find the right saddle under the seat leather. Sophisticated concepts are supposed to show us the way to the end of the rainbow, where the proverbial box of gold may not be waiting, but the perfect saddle is. Which some people would probably be even happier about.
Using six concepts, we wanted to find out whether the path to a pain-free cycling experience really is that simple. We selected two test riders with different rider profiles and had the right saddle determined either using an online tool or by taking measurements from the manufacturer.
Two rider types, twelve saddles
Six saddles were selected which, according to the manufacturer, should fit each rider perfectly. Each model was mounted and aligned on the respective test bike according to the same principle. Initially in a horizontal position in order to have an identical starting point.
In the course of the test rides, the angle of inclination or the offset had to be slightly optimised on some models. However, as every saddle is designed differently, it is normal that the optimum individual position may vary slightly. All riding impressions were recorded in a detailed test report.
You can find these MTB saddle models in the test:
- Ergon SME3 Pro
- Ergon SMW M Pro
- Pro Falcon Ti
- Pro Turnix Carbon
- Prologo Scratch Pro X14
- Prologo X-Zero Nack CPC
- Selle Italia SLR XC
- Selle Italia SLR Superflow L
- Specialised Henge Exp.
- Specialised Phenom Comp Gel
- SQlab 611 Active
- SQlab 611 Race
The two test drivers
Scientific measurement at gebioMised
In order to substantiate the personal impressions of the test riders, each saddle was tested under scientific conditions in motion at gebioMised. A pressure measurement was carried out for each model - again on a personal test bike. At the same time, the measurements were recorded by two cameras, one frontal and one offset 90 degrees to the side. This also made it possible to analyse different sitting or pedalling behaviour. The test riders were selected as they did not have any anatomical conditions that would prevent them from finding a suitable saddle "off the peg".
The results of the test drives and pressure measurement
To ensure an objective evaluation, the test rides took place first. The saddles were then analysed and evaluated at gebioMized, but without knowing the results of the practical test. The collected data was summarised in a final discussion. Here are the ratings:
How measurement works at gebioMised
To prevent possible measurement errors, the measurements were carried out under standardised laboratory conditions. The following points were carried out identically for each run:
- The seat position was adjusted using a joint angle analysis in the dynamic range
- The saddle position was determined on the basis of the force application point on the saddle
- A watt-controlled roller trainer (Tacx Bushido) ensured constant pedalling resistance
- Riding with identical cadence in each case
- The room, temperature and clothing of the test drivers were not changed during the measurements
Sophisticated measurement technology
The pressure measurement was carried out for each saddle model over a specified dynamic period. 64 sensors are positioned on the so-called "GP BikeMess" pressure measurement foil, which graphically display the load distribution in the 64 zones using colour scaling.
The following data is shown in the finished graphic:
- The maximum pressure for a zone
- The averaged pressure for the measurement period per zone
- The uniformity of the pressure distribution right/left
- The force application point, which indicates the centre of gravity of the seat on the saddle
What you can read from the pressure measurement
Blue areas in the graphic indicate areas with low pressure load. The more the colour scale changes to red, the higher the pressure load in the corresponding areas. However, high pressure is not necessarily a problem. If high pressure occurs in the area of the sit bones, this is perfectly acceptable and even desirable. The ischial tuberosities are designed to absorb this load. Pressure or red areas in the pubic bone area, on the other hand, should be avoided because they can lead to pain and numbness.
Uneven pressure distribution can be an indication that the saddle is uncomfortable for the rider at certain points and that they are avoiding these points by shifting their position. This effect can be illustrated in the video analysis, for example, by an unsteady posture during the ride. In such a case, a saddle would not be recommended.
The pressure patterns of the two test riders also differ significantly. This is due to several factors: Firstly, the enduro rider weighs around ten kilograms more than the marathon rider. As a result, more weight presses on the saddle and the print image has a more reddish colour scheme. Due to the upright position of the enduro rider, there is also more weight on the saddle, especially in the ischial area. In addition, the Enduro rider is classified as a purebred ischial load, which puts even more pressure on the rear part of the saddle.
Further information on the saddle topic
Difference between ischial and pubic rami
Bikers can be roughly divided into the two categories of ischial and pubic bone strainers. An upright posture on the bike often encourages a tendency to put more strain on the sit bones. However, this is not guaranteed. Above all, the rider's mobility in the pelvis and upper body plays a major role here and varies from rider to rider. Many bikers rotate their pelvis forwards to be able to grip the handlebars. This shifts the sitting position more towards the pubic bone. Even with a sporty posture on the bike, the load shifts more towards the pubic bone. As a general rule, the right saddle should always direct the pressure away from the pubic bone area and towards the sit bones. During the ride, pubic bone users often feel numbness in the perineal area. People with ischial tuberosities usually feel pressure in the area of the ischial tuberosities.
Saddle fitting: small change, big effect
It is almost impossible to find the correct position of a saddle when it is first fitted. To begin with, the saddle should always be aligned horizontally in the seat area. If problems occur during the test rides, the saddle position can be optimised by moving it horizontally or by adjusting the saddle angle. Minimal changes can make a big difference. If there is pressure in the pubic bone area, for example, you can try moving the saddle a few millimetres forwards to shift the weight more onto the seat of the saddle. Changing the angle of the saddle can also reduce pressure in the pubic area. However, you should not change the angle by more than three degrees. Here is an example:
When no saddle fits at all
Can't find the right saddle even after an extensive search? Then you still have the option of having a customised saddle made. The company gebioMized has specialised in this area. Specially trained dealers take the measurements for the customised saddle. The first step is to determine the appropriate basic model and take a pressure measurement. The saddle surface is adapted to the rider's anatomy on the basis of the pressure image and manufactured as an individual item in a special CNC milling machine at gebioMized. The padding hardness, cover colour and design can be selected by the customer. Once the saddle has been completed, a second measurement is carried out at the dealer to check the fit of the saddle. Further information on customised saddles and all authorised dealers can be found on the gebioMized website.
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Stefan Frey
Editor
