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While biking is one of the most fun and healthy sports, the bike saddle is something that many people complain about.
It can make riding long distances a pain and can even lead to medical problems like chronic back pain, and issues with the prostate or tailbone.
To make this hobby fun for you, we bring to you the best and the most comfortable bike saddles that can be easily used for long rides. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about them.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Road Bike Saddles For Long Rides
- OUR TOP PICK: SGODDE Gel Bicycle Saddle
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Brooks England Cambium Bike Seat
- MOST COMFORTABLE ROAD BIKE SADDLE FOR LONG DRIVE: Pioneeryao Universal Fit
Comparison of the Best Road Bike Saddles For Long Rides
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What Makes a Road Bike Saddle Great For Long Rides?
If you have a long trip planned on your bicycle, then you want to make sure that you have a quality bike saddle. Here is why it is so important to have one and how it will make your riding trips so much easier.
Comfortable
Before becoming a hit on Pinterest and Instagram, bike saddles were busy performing a much more important function: making your bike rides more comfortable.
Seats that normally come on bicycles are hard, stiff, and do not allow a comfortable position for the rider. This makes them wary of long rides. Now, bike saddles have solved this issue and ensure that you are comfortable enough to get on that bike whenever you are in the mood. It’s time to say goodbye to that padded underwear and ride the way it was intended.
Safety
Being all squished up down there is not just uncomfortable, but it is also not good for your health and can lead to serious medical conditions. A quality saddle will consider all these factors and be designed such that pressure is distributed evenly, and chances of you developing a medical condition would drop drastically.
Style
Although safety and comfort are the prime functions of a bike saddle, we don’t mind the fact they seriously glam up the look of your bike. Whether it’s a classy leather seat or any other type, chances are it is much better looking than the one that came with the bike.
Are All Bike Saddles The Same When it Comes to Long Rides?
No two products are identical, and the same is the case with a bike saddle. Every person has a unique bone structure, width, and preference; hence, having one standard design would not work. Therefore, manufacturers have come up with various designs and features so that everyone can find what best suits their needs and buy something that works for them.
There are also different qualities in a bike saddle. Some companies use cheap materials to line their seats, and while it may look perfect on the outside, it soon starts to disintegrate or cracks up.
However, some companies go above and beyond to craft a comfortable and durable saddle so that you don’t have to buy the same thing again and again. Hence, you must do proper research before buying a saddle.
Review of the Best Road Bike Saddles For Long Rides
Since we have covered important aspects of this topic, let’s move on to the section where we discuss something that most of you are keen about. It is time to get down to our exclusive list for the best road bike saddles for long rides.
Each of them has been carefully studied before they were added to the list. Hence, rest assured that we only bring you the most quality products.
Best Overall:
SGODDE Gel Bicycle Saddle
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found it to be a lot more comfortable than the seat that came with their respective bikes, and they have been much more comfortable with this. They appreciated its design, padding, and size. Many commented that they would happily order this product again and would recommend it to their friends.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There wasn’t one special feature that made a case for this seat; rather, what you get is an entire package with all the features is that got us interested. The craftsmanship, design, easy installation, safety features, and the overall riding experience make it a product that is well worth your money.
Some customers reported that they used it in harsh weather conditions as well, and it did not get ruined, which is a great feature. It gives you more room to freely move around your thighs, which reduces friction between them, and you don’t get any burns.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is definitely a product that you can rely on. The comfort it allows you will actually get you more interested in riding a bike. Hence, you will develop not just a cool hobby but will actively participate in the activity too.
Best for the Money:
Brooks England Cambium Bike Seat
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Many riders took it out for long test rides and were delighted with the results. The seat gave them the comfort that they were missing on their original option, which prompted them to look for a change. Many people that had a larger build reported that this proved to be a good option for them.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Although this seat is a tad different in its components from others, that is precisely what makes it unique and a great option. The top allows the rider to be comfortable and yet remain in charge of where the bike is going.
Moreover, the weather-resistant shield and the waterproof exterior work well, even in heavy rainfall or harsh conditions, making it a lot more resistant to damage. Not everyone wants a leather seat, which is for all those who want something else yet still demand comfort.
Bottom Line
Just because everyone demands one thing doesn’t mean you have to go in that direction as well. Brooks has come up with a stellar option for people who do not go for overly padded or leather seats and introduced this new stylish and very effective seat.
Most Comfortable Road Bike Saddle for Long Drive:
Pioneeryao Universal Fit
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most people did not expect to get such a comfortable seat at such an affordable price. They reported that they did not feel the need to wear padded underwear with this, and that was a huge relief. One of them gave a useful tip to raise the back end a bit, which will make it even more comfortable if you are having any issues.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a top-quality product with great construction, and there isn’t much to not love. The gel and foam padding makes it very comfortable for men and women. Add on the hollow design, and that gives some breathing room and allows riders to relieve sweat and heat, the importance of which cannot be overstated.
Moreover, this seat is compatible with most bikes, and the installation process is simple and easy enough. Although looks are not your prime concern in a bike seat, you can’t dent loving a stylish seat, which is exactly what this offers. Another great feature is that you can even use it in the rain as it doesn’t retain any water.
Bottom Line
The smart and innovative design of this bike seat makes it ideal for long rides and is fit to be used by both men and women. Most of its customers have loved using this, and we believe it will really be a good decision keeping it in your shortlist.
Editor's Pick:
Origin8 Pro Uno-S Saddle
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
One thing that almost every other customer pointed out was how this unit is ridiculously durable. They have had it for some time, and despite using it regularly, it did not disintegrate. Moreover, they loved that it allowed them to explore their biking passion in a much more comfortable manner.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Many people think that the more padded a seat is, the better it can be. While that might prove to be true for shorter distances, experienced riders will tell you that it isn’t the best combo for a long ride. This saddle has just the right amount of padding, even for those who are on the lighter end. To achieve this balance is a challenge.
The look of this saddle is also a huge attraction. Although it shouldn’t be the sole purpose of your purchase, it does tip the scales in its favor. Moreover, you will find just after a little use that your crotch is in a much better state, and you would actually be grateful for this.
Bottom Line
The Origin8 Pro Uno-S Saddle is another ingenious product from the brand that, too, at a reasonable price. Many products are advertised to be a lot better than the original piece but not this one; it delivers on all its advertisements claims.
4. Bikeroo Padded Bicycle Saddle
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
People found this to be a huge improvement from their original seats and claimed that it was soft and padded on areas that were sore earlier. Moreover, they reported that it stood the test of distance and could entertain you for longer tracks and riding sessions.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Its smart design is perhaps its most defining feature. One great feature is that it distributes pressure from your backbone across the saddle surface. This, in turn, relieves pressure from your tailbone and makes the ride much more comfortable.
Your butt needs to be in a comfortable position while riding. Some people also develop chronic back pain, prostate discomfort, or even erectile dysfunction. This can help with all of that as its smart design makes sure to account for anatomical problems. Even though it is made for men, it is fit to be used by women as well.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this is a seat that is appropriately padded, large enough to support big and small people, comfortable, and medically intelligent. It allows its user a much better riding experience, which is the entire point of buying a new saddle.
Are Comfortable Road Bike Saddles Important on Long Rides?
If you are just running to the grocery store to grab a few things, then your bike's original seat will work for that. In such a short time, you will not feel any particular discomfort and can easily enjoy your ride.
However, the story is much different on longer rides. Your crotch is constantly squished against the hard and rigid seat of the bike and will soon start to hurt. That’s where you think of investing in a comfortable bike saddle as it will allow you the comfort and safety to put your bike to good use and enjoy your long rides. If you are uncomfortable, you wouldn’t be too keen on taking your bicycle out of the garage.
How Do I Choose a Road Bike Saddle For Long Rides?
The market for bike saddles is overflowing with products. The presence of so many different brands, features, and styles can make it hard to choose, especially when you don’t know what you are looking for. This section will highlight the important things that you should look at before making a purchase.
Sit Bone Width
Just like other features of our body, our sit bone widths can also vary greatly. A general rule of thumb would be to measure the width of your sit bone and add 20mm to get an adequate saddle width. If it is too narrow, then your bones would not be supported, and if it is too wide, then the extra room would mean excessive rubbing. Hence, you must have this factor right.
Design
Another key feature that needs consideration is the design. Not every design is fit for everyone. Some are only for men, while others cater to only women. Make sure you get the appropriate one.
Moreover, some people like more padding, but others prefer something more light yet comfortable. All these factors need to be researched before coming to a decision.
Material
This factor will largely determine the construction quality and durability of your bike saddle. If it is made from cheap materials, then it would start cracking up after just a few uses. However, if you invest in a brand that uses quality products and is waterproof, you will find that it will be more comfortable and last longer.
Conclusion
There is no one size fits all product for a bike saddle. Your due diligence is required, and you need to know what you are looking for. With that being said, there are many good options, like the ones on our list, that will make your rides much more comfortable and fun. Happy Riding!
People Also Ask
The satisfaction of our readers is our utmost priority. Hence, we try to make sure to add everything that might add to your knowledge before making a decision. This section has some common questions that people asked, and we want to answer them for you.
How Do I Make my Bike Saddle More Comfortable on Long Distances?
Make sure that you have chosen a well-built, comfortable saddle, and have taken into account all the features mentioned above. Set it at the right height and adjust it to fit your riding position. Make sure that you take up the whole seat and don’t go for excessive padding. Contrary to popular beliefs, it could increase pressure on the sit bone.
How Much Does a Bike Saddle For Long Rides Cost?
The exact price or even the range can vary largely. It depends on the brand, construction quality, and the features it offers. However, for the sake of an idea, you can find a good bike saddle between $25 and $50. However, pricier and better options could cost up to $150 as well.
