The Most Effective Ways to Make Your Bicycle More Comfortable

There are many benefits to riding a bike. However, one of the most significant impediments to riding is discomfort on the bike. Small, hard-looking saddles, thin cycling shorts, and aggressive riding positions might be intimidating to beginners. 

A bad setup can lead to saddle sores, numbness, back pain, neck knots, and other issues. But it doesn't have to be that way.

The sections below will provide various ways to make your bike more comfortable so that you can enjoy those long rides without any needless discomfort.

Change the Length of Your Reach

Along with saddle height, the horizontal distance from your bottom bracket to your handlebars - often known as your reach - is one of the most crucial bike fit parameters. You can wind up with tired shoulders, a stiff lower back, an unstable aero position, and more if you reach incorrectly.

An incorrect reach is also exceedingly inconvenient and can even contribute to the formation of saddle sores. The most effective way to alter your reach is to try a different length stem. Most of the time, your reach is too lengthy; therefore, you should try a shorter stem.

A longer stem may help lengthen your reach and provide for a more comfortable riding position if your reach seems too short and your bike frame is on the small side.

You may adjust your saddle by sliding it forward or rearward for the cheapest and easiest adjustment. Keep in mind that your saddle height may be affected by your saddle angle, so double-check the height before dialling in your reach.

Adjust the Height of Your Handlebars or the Angle of Your Stem

You may modify the height of your handlebars as well as the distance to the handlebars in your reach. This can be done in several methods, the most common of which are adjusting the stack height or stem angle.

Many have slammed stems, meaning they've removed all the spacers between the stem and the headset. It's what the professionals do, and it looks cool and aerodynamic. 

However, the beautiful looks of a slammed stem aren't always worth the sacrifice of power and comfort. It's ideal to raise your handlebar height by placing spacers between the stem and headtube to improve comfort. 

This will relieve pressure on your shoulders, wrists, and hands by putting you in a slightly more upright riding position.

You may also change the height of your handlebar by changing the angle of your stem. Buying a new stem is the most expensive option, but you may also try flipping your present stem.

Remember that when you change the handlebar height, you're also changing your reach, so double-check those measures to ensure a proper fit and increased overall comfort.

Measure the Height of Your Saddle

No matter how many times you've checked your saddle height, it's always a good idea to double-check it. Over time, a seat post can easily move a centimetre, or you may have grown or shrunk. 

A saddle that is too low can significantly reduce your power production and pedalling efficiency, but a saddle that is too high can induce IT band syndrome, one of the most common causes of knee pain in cyclists.

It's clear to see why saddle height is so crucial, yet it's also a simple alteration that won't break the bank. Measuring your inseam and subtracting 10cm is the simplest way to determine your saddle height. 

The height of the saddle is measured from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the saddle, and it may be changed in less than a minute. It's never a bad idea to double-check.

Conclusion

Cycling should be enjoyable. After all, you're riding your bike to get some exercise, escape the stresses of life, and maybe even catch some rays. 

You have lots of causes to feel discomfort while cycling, whether it's from lactate in your legs or a burning sensation in your lungs. Riding your bike should not be one of them.

Get your comfortable, breathable bicycle saddle and more from Cushbike! We sell premium comfort bicycle seats that can fit your requirements. Visit our shop today and take your pick!