[ST] Re: st-digest V2004 #236

["B Parker" <bparker15@xxxxxxx>]

ahh, the butt thread. something we can really sink our teeth into..so to
speak. let me take a crack at it.

i see this as four issues: maximum psi, distribution of pressure,
ventilation, and time on saddle.

max psi is complex; it is the additive topology of your derrier and the
shape of the seat. if you have small-radius pelvic points and soft surface
tissue, you will have a high point-of-contact psi on a flat surface.

your butt shape and padding can be comfortably modified temporarily with
bicycle undies.

why is a hard Corbin more comfy to most riders thana soft stock saddle?
because your weight is spread over a larger area, and you aren't settling
down on the seat pan.

the seat will be worse for you in particular if the seat has thin padding
and a ridge under the pad that matches the distance between  your bone
peaks.

your arm / leg length etc. will dictate your 'sweet spot' fore and aft on
the seat. if the seat isn't level fore and aft, you can get pushed away
from the bars or crowded into the tank [ouch...].

your riding style will affect which seat shape is the best compromise:
more straights or curves, do you sit still or hang off. with more curves,
you will have slightly more force on the butt; if you hang off, the shape
has to let you move sideways.


the shape of the seat should 'more than' match your shape; it should match
your shape under the stress of sitting - perhaps even softer spots where
the bones are. the more area the seat has, the lower the psi on your rear
[that's why those old cast iron tractor seats were shaped that way].

so - the Long Distance saddles are bigger, bowl shaped, and carefully
padded. some saddle makers will tailor the seat to your shape [though no
one has come up with a measuring system like the circumference/cup size
standard others enjoy]. sport saddles are minimal - go check Rossi's bike,
that ain't exactly a Sargent.

no one position will be comfy all day. you need to move around, or get up
on your pegs and shake your booty [don't tempt cops to ticket you for
that].

nothing matches an air cushion for equalizing the pressure.

if you perspire, that will get uncomfortable in a half hour or so.

bottom line:
as much saddle area as you can use without cramping your style in the
twisties
a shape that matches yours
built to match your best position on that bike, and, like racquetball
racquets, a maximum sweet spot.
padded to minimize 'hot spots'
breathable

what does your butt want?
a Mayer http://www.ibmwr.org/prodreview/saddles.html with an Airhawk
http://www.ibmwr.org/prodreview/airhawk.html and a sheepskin pad...ugly,
but good for those Iron Butt rides.

i've been sitting here typing too long. my butt hurts. i'm gonna go sit on
the bike.

happy gluteals to all
bp


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