Bicycle seat question

[Medusa]

Well, Richard, I'm a nerd. It's only a 3 speed and I don't have riding gear, etc. But what you say about the seat and handle bars makes sense because I kept sliding forward and when I shifted my weight, the stabbing pain in my tailbone appeared. When I bought it, the seat felt fine but then it's probably like buying new shoes. They feel great in the store but later on they hurt. No, I won't let him talk me into an expensive seat because the bike itself didn't cost that much.

[Husky_mom]

if you are slipping forward.... can the seat be untight... and maybe its leaning a bit forward?....

there are also seats with a "divider".. it has two bigger cushions for the butt and leaves the tailbone "floating" in the middle section...

[Jessika]

How wide is the seat? I've found the narrower seats hurt more for me than the wider ones. And yes, the gel ones are awesome

[RICHARD]

Bike/frame size is important.

THere are no nerd bikes or riders.

GET A HELMET. Even if you have to buy a used one at a yard sale until you can getone that fits you.

You should be able to straddle the bike (if it's a man's model) without hitting the frame. I think you may have a 'beach comber' model?

You can adjust the handlebars and seat to your frame. To check the seat prop the bike up against a wall, stand back and look at the level of the seat.
It should be horizontal. Get the handlebars adjusted - If you have the straight or longhorn models, so your forearms are pretty level with the ground. Your body weight should be split between the seat and bars. If you lean too far forward your shoulders and neck will get tired from shifting your weight back and forth as you pedal, trying to get going and keeping your momentum.

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Fingerless gloves and shoes?

Even if you think you look funny or dumb, be prepared.

Gloves will protect your hands from road rash should you tip over and shoes with a stiff sole are a good idea. Your feet will thank you! As you pedal, your heel takes the stress of the 'push'. The pedal pushes your arch up and your foot flexes to keep it centered, you also stretch the ligaments and tendons of your forefoot, not a good thing after long rides.

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Also, get some pepper spray for pesky five year olds and dogs!

[Kfamr]

Oh gosh, I feel your pain!

My friend and I have been going on bike rides pretty often. The other day we went on a 5 hour ride. My butt was killing me!

I've got a very narrow seat and a small bike (it's a racing/trick bike, totally not meant for what I'm using it for.) I imagine the gel seats and a wider seat would be much more comfortable.

[Glacier]

I use a cheap ol' WallyMart brand gel seat on my bike. It's awesome! Much more comfy!

[Alysser]

My mom's bike seat is like that and of course I can't find the old gel seat I had! I feel your pain. Gel ones are awesome although some people complain they slide off the seat. I've never experienced that before if it is applied properly. You can buy one just about anywhere. I got mine at wal-mart