|
||
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
|
| 29er-26 | Brakes | Disc Brakes | Frame Materials | Hardtail-Full Suspension | Handlebars | Lights | Lube | Pedals | Rear Shocks | Saddles | Shifter | Shocks | ShocksII | Shorts | Tubeless Tires/Rims | Water Carrier | |
Date: March 22, 2006
Aaron a weekend warrior from Florida writes:
F'izik Arione or Serfas RS are best. Complete carbon saddles if you want impotency or the need to stand up a lot.
WINNER: Tie
ergo are a nice for mountain, but a nice trad with maybe a gel insert takes the medal for road
WINNER: Tie
theres a compromise solution so saddle makers take heed do a slick lookin trad stuff with an ergo comfort an all this debate of which is best 'comes moot . for looks nuthin beats the slick traditional zen geometry! so till an ergo with trad looks is born ill stick to the classic stuff.
WINNER: Traditional
When you ride, you want to have fun. Ergo saddles are the way to go.
if you race, and want light weight saddle, go with the traditional.
WINNER: Ergonomic
When selle made the original flite, they hit the pinnacle of saddles. From then on it was just gimmic stuff.
WINNER: Traditional
The technology for ergo seats have improved so much over the years. The weight issue is nearly a non-issue when comparing the two. If you like to have your bits and pieces working, go ergo.
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergonomic are comfier but heavier. Traditional still feel fine with cycling shorts and are light weigfht.
WINNER: Traditional
Whatever will stop my balls from aching
WINNER:
i've been riding with a traditional seat for over 30 years. i switched to a terri ergonomical seat, and have never had so many lower back, psoas, sartorious and sciatic issues. to the point where i haven't riden in 2 years. Recently I became aware of the necessity of supporting the perinium/sacrum. I'm going back to a traditional ergonomic seat.erognomic looks good in design school/museums but does it work without one understanding the BODY?
WINNER: Traditional
I've raced off road using a flite saddle for years. I just recently bought the leather/ti ergo one that has the perianal cutout cause I thought it might be better for me. What a mistake. If you have ever had problems with hemorrhoids before, watch out!!!! Imagine every part of your rear being supported except the perianal area - all those veins just waiting to sag from the intra abdominal pressure, and no support = welcome back my old friend hemorrhoids
!@#$!!@#$ give me back my old seat that puts the pressure where I need it - right on my ass-hole!!!!!!!!!
WINNER: Traditional
RE:
"I practice daily for 3+ hours, and i have ridden both ergonomic and traditional. And like those out there like me, we all know that traditional is the better of the two. Traditional saddles are made of better materials, look cooler, and are just as comfortable. Its just a matter of getting used to it, buckin up and bein a trooper. Ergonomic is for panzies."
Just posting this as an example of what kind of posts to blatantly ignore around here ;) Stupid, ignorant, misleading blanket statement that is not based in any sort of solid fact. If anything, ergo saddles are made of the stronger materials, and to try to attest that trad is more comfortable when the only difference between trad and ergo seats _is_ comfort, well, it's just lame.
And how style comes into this decision is way beyond me.
Find the seat that works for you! That's the right one!
WINNER: Ergonomic
RE:
"To start I will tell you about my riding style. I am a XC racer(not too competitive) who likes comfort in my saddle. I am also a Mountain cross racer so wieght is a issue in a way becuase I want my bikes to weigh as little as possible. So here is my virdict. I think that I would go for traditional. I dont see the upside to Ergonimic saddles unless you are someone like Lance or anyone else who rides a lot. Go traditional"
Interesting how this decision was based on a number of points that are not even remotely impacted by the choice between an ergo and a trad saddle.
People, they're the same except they're not.
What I mean is, at this point there is really no difference between the selection of ergo saddles out there and the selection of traditional saddles. Same materials, same prices, etc etc...
Thus, it should be a no brainer:
If you're buying a saddle anyways, get the one that won't render you sterile. Seriously, why would you choose any other? The only valid exception here is those looking for a cheap means of attaining permanent contraception.
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergo = sex
traditional = urologist
WINNER: Ergonomic
It depends on the ergonomic saddle you choose to purchase. Some are legit and some aren't. Find the right one and you will not use a traditional saddle again........out!!
WINNER: Traditional
Traditional, commfert
WINNER: Traditional
Obviously there are many people here that have not tried a ergo saddle, they are the best and you can get them in ti and leather now too:-)
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ride a horse a western saddle is much better for any butt. Try it you'll like it.
A traditional western saddle beats all.
WINNER: Traditional
Ride a horse a western saddle is much better for any butt. Try it you'll like it.
WINNER: Traditional
Why are almost all "saddles" made for a man's pain...and a woman's pleasure?
WINNER: Tie
ouch, traditional cuts off your circulation to your hoo-hoos, and i usually like traditional things, but i like to have circulation to my....
WINNER: Ergonomic
To start I will tell you about my riding style. I am a XC racer(not too competitive) who likes comfort in my saddle. I am also a Mountain cross racer so wieght is a issue in a way becuase I want my bikes to weigh as little as possible. So here is my virdict. I think that I would go for traditional. I dont see the upside to Ergonimic saddles unless you are someone like Lance or anyone else who rides a lot. Go traditional
WINNER: Traditional
Is there any leather bulldog bike saddle available in the market?
It's the best saddle I ever ride.
WINNER: Tie
Seats weigh much and are just one more thing that can break. A good stiff seatpost will hold you on the bike much better anyway.
WINNER: Tie
SDG DECENT SADDLE A LITTLE HARD ON THE BUT AFTER A LONG RIDE...
WINNER: Ergonomic
Individual sit parts are just too variable to make a sweeping statement. What works for one body may not work for another. This one, in my opinion, can not be judged in this type of forum.
WINNER: Tie
Definitely the ergo. I didn't really realize how bad the traditional seats were for you until i switched. What I chalked up to saddle soarness was also numbness of the chode nerve. I think I would like to continue to have sex for a few more years
WINNER: Ergonomic
traditional leaves me saddle sore. thank god for innovation and cut-outs.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Honestly, it's just about what saddle fits you. Personnaly it's an ergo, was on the bike (specialzed) and fitted my but just fine.
WINNER: Tie
unless you spend lots of time sitting on the saddle or are Ron Jearmy, you shouldn't have to worry about it. Ron would take the ergonomic saddle I think.
WINNER: Tie
HEY A SEAT IS A SEAT AS LONG AS IT DONT HURT AND HAS A UNIQUE LOOK...HOLLA BACK
WINNER: Tie
its got to be ergo cause traditional with a hardtail is not the most comfortable
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomics has it's place depending on the application. A traditional saddle does not fit everyone, especially girls. I spent the first few years of my biking experience searching for the right saddle for me, isn't it still the first thing you upgrade? Fortunately for me, a traditional saddle is what fits, and I find most comfortable for myself. It's in the width mostly, that's the part that has to fit.
WINNER: Tie
There's no comparison. Traditional saddles are for numb-nuts wankers who are too mired up in tradition or are just plain ignorant of the Terry Liberator saddle benefits (not a blanket statement for all ergo saddles as some are pretty hokey). You do what you want with your own unit. I don't see the need to suffer. I don't find any performance benefit to traditional saddles and the Liberator saddle keeps me in the game.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Look, best way of birth controll is not having sex, second is the traditional seat. Go Traditional! That, and they are light, look cool, bragging rights, and just allow me to flow more on my riding.
WINNER: Traditional
I practice daily for 3+ hours, and i have ridden both ergonomic and traditional. And like those out there like me, we all know that traditional is the better of the two. Traditional saddles are made of better materials, look cooler, and are just as comfortable. Its just a matter of getting used to it, buckin up and bein a trooper. Ergonomic is for panzies.
WINNER: Traditional
Ergo...just think what dregs off sperm are left on a traditional...what sort of kids will you spawn if only the skinny dreg like sperm make it through (would explain Brummies tho)...not done sex on a saddle ;)
WINNER: Ergonomic
I feel traditional is the only way. I ride a brooks, can't get more traditional than that.
WINNER: Traditional
comfort
WINNER: Ergonomic
Tensioned leather saddles are the shiz nit plasic gel foam ; all for pusseies get some top grain leather or better yet get the "Real Man" saddle at http://www.sheldonbrown.com/real-man.html
WINNER: Traditional
All saddles and all asses need some breaking in, but (or butt)... I have two sitting bones, the rest is soft tissue. Don't mess with my soft tissue, it needs to be hard sometimes...
WINNER: Ergonomic
Tie both comfortable saddles
WINNER: Tie
What's with the ergonomic shit. Its not the saddle. Its all your asses. U all got soft, pampered asses that can't take the strain of a traditional saddle. I can cycle 8 hours straight on my bike with a traditional saddle, its lighter too... Bottom line: Ride more and get used to your saddles. Traditional all the way.
WINNER: Traditional
First off I really did not understand about 3/4 of what all ya'll said...'cept for maybe Hipptrigger. If your ass hurts after a ride something is wrong and buying a new saddle will not cure it. Riding more will cure it but that is a lot harder than plunking down the plastic.
Listen up fella's there is a reason that yer Doc has to stick his (her if yer lucky) finger up your bum to check the ole prostate... that's becuase it's up there a ways. So some gel or slot in the seat ain't helping it. By the way who's friggin' nuts will fit in the slot anyways...not mine and I ain't braggin either.
Brother if your "taint", as some of you so quaintly put it, is sore your seat needs to be adjusted (tilt or fore aft) or someone did a crappy job of fitting you when you bought your ride.
It's all about marketing as far as I am concerned...gotta create a new gimmic to creat a buzz so you can move product.
Bottom line...if your can hurts, ride more don't go buy something.
WINNER: Traditional
It's your ass!
WINNER: Ergonomic
i give a rats flying ass but after rethinking it the egro has the methane vent witch comes in handy. make sure your nuts dont get tea bagged though cause you can rip them right off. then theres those guys who seem to not have any nuts in the first place they dont have anything to worry about. you know who you are ya spandex wearin yuppie queers. blaaaaaaaaaaaah eat shit.
WINNER: Tie
Who cares??? its a seat. sit down, shutup and enjoy the ride.
WINNER: Traditional
Ergo all the way. No more "numbness" and my "taint" feels soooo much better since I went to the ergo saddle.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Actually, I like the old version of saddles, the leather type with cushion spring, more comfortable especially in long distances. So I vote tie for them since I don't go for both of them.
WINNER: Tie
Anyone with any since would realize that technolgy just about doubles itself every year. The ergonomic saddle makes sence because it conforms to your body where as with the traditional saddles you body must conform to the saddles which can be an unpleaseant process.
WINNER: Ergonomic
For road and MT, I'm all about the "Love-Channel".
WINNER: Ergonomic
seats arnt for sittin on. their sole purpose in life is to keep you from rackin to hard on the frame. so whatevers cheapest that wont break is whatll win
WINNER:
I like traditional for long rides, so there. I'm kinda curious just what exactly the guy who said his toes were going numb was sitting on....I hope he realizes there's supposed to be something other than a clamp at the top of the post?
WINNER: Tie
Comfort of the ergonomic sits well with me.
WINNER: Ergonomic
The saddle has to be the one single most personal item of anybody's bike. Most traditional saddles could be easily used as torture devices, especially those from Selle Italia, however, there possibly are some that fit like a glove. I went through an ordeal of selecting the one that fits me a while ago and went with an ergonomic design. There is a slight weight penalty, even though not nearly as much as if I was to go with one of those pantsy gel saddles, but in exchange you get more thoughtful design from the perspective of your scrotum and some very important arteries that possibly will keep your prostate healthy a little longer, as well as more support and comfort for the bum.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I agree with Otto from CA (3 below me): I am a gay lycra wearer and I say the seatpost is the only way to go. I must warn you though... Don't use a carbon post because it sucks when it breaks off in your a$$.
WINNER: Seatpost
WINNER:
Your future generations will thank you.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I just got an ergo seat from REI. Gel-based with a nice hole in the middle for my nuts. I rode trad seat for 10 years - a dozen rides on the ergo and I won't go back. Trad seats DO have more potential to hurt your balls. Even if you haven't and don't, all it will take is one slam onto a trad seat and your ---ed. Stick with gel-based ergo for most comfortable and future-securing results if you know what I mean...
WINNER: Ergonomic
My Rear hurts even with a car sponge straped to my �60 Traditional
so its a tie..
WINNER: Tie
Saddles can add quite a bit of weight, so I've decided to go without. One interesting side effect is that once you get used to the initial discomfort, you can clentch on to the seatpost with your sphincter and improve the power of your stroke.
WINNER: Seatpost
WINNER:
Ergo keeps the hydraulics working, but I ride 20mi/day and get numb either way.
Traditional with gel
WINNER: Traditional
Bought a Koobi Au after traditional saddle and a Specialized Geo. Would never look back. Best saddle on the market. Go technology.
WINNER: Ergonomic
i've got a Fisher Tassahara and a Sugar 4. Any one has ever experienced a Fisher stock doesn't do so for long unless they are broke. i got some cheap Schwinn ergos which made a world of difference.
WINNER: Ergonomic
i ride a 02 specialized bg pro saddle and its so good!!!!
WINNER: Ergonomic
well if uve got a nice ass like me or a female ergo is better but traditional is for all you n assed peeps out there
WINNER: Ergonomic
Honestly, I can't find the difference ( again ) except for the price and design but if the comfortability is concern, nothing really difference. Maybe to the other riders it has big difference but for me, since Im a heavy rider, I find no difference.
WINNER: Tie
Traditional is the winner here, but only if gel is used....Erg is to skinny but it looks cooler lol
WINNER: Traditional
My bike came with a nice traditional WTB saddle...I got sore bum but you always get that after 50+ miles...anywho, I grabbed a $55 bontrager with a gel insert where my prostate goes...took it home and cut out the plastic and left the gel....still sore bum (it's a little harder than the WTB) but my prostate area doesn't hurt and I am no impotent (I don't think! LOL)
WINNER: Ergonomic
My rear has always like the traditional, its flat and fits.
WINNER: Traditional
ergo makes the world go round- desighned 4 ur but simple_ ERGO IS THE WINNER
WINNER: Ergonomic
definetly traditional, ergonomic is just to skinny and ti hurts. makes for a very soar bum. traditional is much more flat and nice, especial if it has gel.
WINNER: Traditional
A lot of talk about sore arses on this page. We still talkin bike parts --not about time spent in the boy scouts or church choir, right Chester? Saddles generally suck I'd have to agree but only if you haven't been riding. Really riding, you know what I mean. Not 3 weeks ago with that pussy who damnit has a nicer bike than you. I mean big miles every day soldier; I mean blowing-off your grrl miles 'cause you can always find another spineless bambi (talking about your grrl not mine, of course) ...so just do another advil suppository if the crying starts to fill-up your sunglasses. FYI the lawn chairs they use on recumbants are much more suitable for sipping a cocktail while riding. Look into scoring one of those.
WINNER: Tie
Both sux. it hurt my ass.. i like my sofa better.. if only i could use themas my saddle... hm hm hm
WINNER: Tie
BOTH HURT MY ASS
WINNER: Tie
Depends on your arse. I've bought a Specialised body geometry saddle and it's ok but I still get a sore arse if I cycle 50 miles..
WINNER: Tie
I just got a Serfas RX and I like it a lot better than any of the cheap traditional saddles I've ridden on before. But anyone trying to give a difinive answer needs to realize that what's comfortable for one person may not be for another
WINNER: Ergonomic
TERRY FOR PERFECT QUALITY AND REZISTANCE FOR INDURANCE LONG TIME RIDE
WINNER: Traditional
Ergonomics are designed for human body . designed with tecnology and by engineers .
WINNER: Ergonomic
If you go numb you're bike doesn't fit. For those of us who do long rides, we know that traditional is the way to go.
WINNER: Traditional
How a saddle fits you is more important than the tech claims of the manufacturer. If an ergonomic seat fits best get it, if you find a more traditional seat more comfortable get it. Remember shape plays a bigger role in comfort than padding or anything else and two seats that look similar can feel very different. Find a saddle that fits you and buy as many as you can afford.
WINNER: Tie
Ergnomic all the way, traditional makes your thingy numb.
WINNER: Ergonomic
traditional is more comfortable
WINNER: Traditional
The Banana seat rules this rooster. I can even take my Hoe on the trail and place her at the rest area where she can work her MO-JO on the ones with the cash.
[ Banana for the BANANA ]
WINNER:
As long as the Tool is still working after a ride,and the wife-girlfriend-blow-up doll are happy...I'll use any seat.Just as long as it does not look like the couch in my living room.
WINNER: Tie
Tried a S-works body geometry for a while but had to take it off it was so uncomfortable. Hard traditional best in my experience once you rack up the miles. Wider support and less, rather than more, cushioning better. Everyone knows those big beginner gel saddles end up uncomfortable as you continue to ride. My tip goes to Flite Ti, even have no problems on my cyclocross bike which is way harsher than my mtb or road bike.
WINNER: Traditional
I do not want to torcher myself with traditional saddle...
WINNER: Ergonomic
I say anyone who rides a traditional saddle deserves to become impotent. Maybe that way we can breed traditional saddles out of existence.
WINNER: Ergonomic
whitchever fits your ass
WINNER: Tie
Ever since I went ergo, that numbness in my toes disappeared. Before the ergo seat, it was spreading with every ride.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Tried them both liked them both.
WINNER: Tie
No way man, impotence is the coolest
WINNER: Traditional
No way, man. Impotence is the coolest
WINNER: Traditional
NO way man, impotence is the coolest
WINNER: Traditional
Ride what feels good. Let your cock be your guide...
WINNER: Tie
I like my junk and, eventually, I want to have kids so I'll have to stick with the ergo seats.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Traditional is much better. Tired many but still go back to my big ugly Regal because it does not hurt after 200km.
WINNER: Traditional
I prefer the traditional type saddles because they just feel more comfortable
WINNER: Traditional
Pick the "Comfy" One
WINNER: Tie
Scott O,
Call me 800-meet-men.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I'm a big fan of the ergonomic seats because the cute little dimples give me a great place to attach my special massage toy. mmmm the vibrating impulses I feel during each exciting ride make me feel like a new woman,I mean man. What I want to know is when are saddle companies going to make this a standard feature? Come on Selle Italia, let's get on the ball fellas!
See you on the trails Fernando!
WINNER: Ergonomic
My nads are always gratefull for my specialized Body Geometry Saddle. Used racing saddle before and couldnt gettit up for a while... now is history!!
WINNER: Ergonomic
Hate the ergonomis seats you ride for half an hour yuor @$$ is sore. You go off a decents jump screw up and land on the seat, it gets rammed up your @$$. unless your a XC freak go for the traditional.
WINNER: Traditional
definetly ergonomic! why, because after a year of using traditional, my dick started to hert, now it's bettert then ever
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic just go as part of you!!!, i don�t use to argue when something is clear, i guess i can�t ride a traditional even for 5 minutes after using ergonomic. Ciao!
WINNER: Ergonomic
the most important thing in a saddle is fit -- if it fits, it'll be comfortable. My choice is ergo, but that's because most of the traditional saddles aren't wide enough for my sitbones. When the saddle disappears under you, then you have a good fit (no, smartass, I don't mean disappear as in go up between your flabby cheeks!).
WINNER: Tie
Brooks. Yeah it's retro and weighs more than a piano, but it's comfy as heck. But keep it away from the rain...
WINNER: Traditional
I like traditional, but you're the one who's sitting on it for hours. Ride that which suits your ass!
WINNER: Tie
I still prefer the ergonomic seat, it is very comfortable, and a great relief during long and bumpy rides.
I have a traditional seat but have never used it after I bought an ergo seat, besides being able to walk straight and not waddle after a long ride is definitely a plus.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic all the way. Much more comfortable. No more pains after long rides. I've been riding a specialized body geometry for 2 years now and have loved every minute of it! I cant ride 5 minutes on a traditional saddle.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic all the way, most seats that come stock on bikes are nasty for us women folk. Give me ergonomic and my sex life will thank you.
I've been riding a Serfas saddle that has the dual density thing going, I don't care too much for cut outs, but I can ride the Serfas one forever.
WINNER: Ergonomic
ridden salsa, terry, mtb, sdg and a few others. terry ti race is by far the most comfortable. there's no "small pressure points". if your butt don't have the matching shape, don't blame on the saddle. and don't try to create funny theories to try to explain.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic makes for 2 small pressure points that hurt. Traditional spreads out the load over a larger area.
WINNER: Traditional
I have riden both and my opinion is that the ergo hurts less. If you ride a lot then no matter what you sit on you will get a bit of wear and tear on your nether regions, I just think this wear and tear occurs less on a ergo.
the traditional saddle I had was an absolute ball buster whereas the ergo I now ride is quite comfortable for the first 20kms thereafter everything will make you sore no matter what
WINNER: Ergonomic
I ride all the time, usually an average of about an hour a day, and i have never had any problems, and my seat is about half ergo, half traditional, and as hard as hell. i once went for a long road ride about 40k, almost no stops, and my ass was raw, but nothing wrong with the family jewels. I spend so much more time standing than sitting, but maybe thats cuz i have a FR/DS bike.
WINNER: Tie
Traditional is better. i used to ride a trans am saddle, i couldnt sit down after an hour, it was the most painful hour ive ever experienced. but we all have different asses. i go for the evolution carbon shell only saddles, i get made fun of for it, but its the most comfortable, i have three, actually 5 but 2 broke going into garages, yes twice. they are comfortable. the cusion on a regular seat is nice, but after a while, even on one ride, the cusions get pushed over and your on a hard surface, that hurts. the crabon shell flexes on bumps and softens vibrations, its consistant making it always comfortable. with the cusions your allowed minor flaws in seat positioning, but with a carbon shell it has to be perfect or the ride will suck, ill give you that.
WINNER: Traditional
ergonomic - it's today, traditional - it's last century
WINNER: Ergonomic
the trad is all you need
WINNER: Traditional
if y like comfort, stay at home! get yr ass moving and get used to the fact that life is pain.
WINNER: Traditional
support in the proper place is all u need, u can get that from either.
WINNER: Tie
you are an idiot if you think the grove is for your balls, it is not there is a nerve that if you don't ride much you won't know about. That nerve gets pinched more easily on a traditional saddle and I now ride a ergo. much improved.
WINNER: Ergonomic
you are an idiot if you think the grove is for your balls, it is not there is a nerve that if you don't ride much you won't know about. That nerve gets pinched more easily on a traditional saddle and I now ride a ergo. much improved.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Hi I am a hot Blonde 16 year old. I have neather! I love wearing a cute tiny skirt! The guy's that I pass by get a glimpse of my blue thang panties! The traditional stinks!
WINNER: Ergonomic
I have Specialized Prom MTB and my ass is heart of that but i think that it's better then traditional
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergonomic: if you care about your future kids and comfort you will choose ergonomic.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic are better all the way. Why would you want something that does not 'fit'?
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergo, definitely. I'm 15 and strapped for cash, so every time i go and ride all of my bits go numb. Traditional sucks.
WINNER: Ergonomic
These two seats weren't designed for comfort. Both seats were designed for use and style. With these bikes you're standing most of the time because of the surface conditions and activity, so you don't sit as much. For example if you were on the beach riding a beach cruiser would you install this type of seat or would you prefer the original beach cruiser seat ? The hint I'm trying to convey: the wider the seat to more comfortable, the narrower it becomes "not", even if you make the pad silicon becomes irrelevant.
WINNER: Tie
Children & Bikes don't mix.
TRADITIONAL! [think of it as a form of contraception ;-]
WINNER: Traditional
SDG BIG BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ROCKS!!!!
WINNER: Traditional
As a sufferer of very painful and bloody chronic hemorrhoids I would have to say ergonomic. I'm sick of seeing blood on the TP.
Tip... keep your Preperation H in the freezer next to your water bottles. It really puts out the flames!!! LOL
WINNER: Ergonomic
the truth??? O.K. I beat off alot so my nads are usually rather swollen. The trad saddle that came with my bike was too uncomfortable and I would avoid riding after porn night. Now with my Koobi ergo, I ride every chance I can, so much so that I am too tired to whack. So you see, my life has improved tremendously as a result of an ergo seat.
WINNER: Ergonomic
the truth??? O.K. I beat off alot so my nads are usually rather swollen. The trad saddle that came with my bike was too uncomfortable and I would avoid riding after porn night. Now with my Koobi ergo, I ride every chance I can, so much so that I am too tired to whack. So you see, my life has improved tremendously as a result of an ergo seat.
WINNER: Ergonomic
more comfy but ergonomic is lighter but im not a weigh weenie
WINNER: Traditional
Ergonomics pinch a stick, get a flite..........
WINNER: Traditional
I was just wondering, as I always do when I begin to ponder the absurdity of things, what in Gods name makes men put ANYTHING made of metal and plastic between our legs???
Think about it! We put a bicycle seat made of plastic and metal between our legs. That bicycle will be subjected to vibration and constant pounding by whatever surface it will be traveling on, and much of that pounding and vibration will invariably transfer to the area most men hold very dear.
Think about the current design of the seats: it is designed so stress is transmitted to a spot that has little padding. The riding position causes your body to put yet more stress on that area.
What the hell are we doing???? It just doesn't make sense!!!!
Yet when some guy buys one of those seats you actually sit on, he gets ridiculed. The same guys who ridicule will also bitch and moan when their balls ache, their dick is numb and doesn't work. "Ergonomic" saddles are not a solution, true seats are.
Show me a guy who says his seat is "broken" in, and I will show you a guy who has some kind of tissue damage in and around his crotch. Or a guy has such a high level threshold of pain, that he might as well be riding with his nuts on the frame, or a eunuch (or well on his way to self inflicted eunuch-dom).
I for one care for my nuts more than the appearance of my bike, so I have on of those seats that you actually sit on. The kind where the two halves move with your �cheeks�.
Ergonomic vs. Traditional is stupid, and too limited.
WINNER:
Ergo. Your sciatic, your urethra, prostate, back, vas, will all thank you. A Terry Liberator on my commuting bike and a Terry Fly on the MTB. No stress, no tiredness in the land of tain't after a long ride.
WINNER: Ergonomic
why ride it if theres a chance you will end up like bob from the uk?
WINNER: Ergonomic
2 arguments.
1: As for balls, ergonomic and traditional both hurt as much, I don't know what everybody else is talking about.
2: The ass bones hurt much more on an ergo then on traditional, so
ergo: -2
trad: 0
you do the math.
WINNER: Traditional
its a personal preference. ive tried both. most ergo i've tried were well padded. now im back using a dh saddle (like azonic,titec,tioga dh/fr saddles - tradidional style) it is well paded and big enough and a lot more comfortable compared to any saddle i have used before. if your worrying about your balls then wear a supporter (ya it is uncomfortable but i'd rather wear it than having no children). because tight lycras can't give the extra support that you will be needing. anyway i ride with baggy shorts.
WINNER: Tie
Ergonomic. You children will thank you for it....
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergonomic helps reduce the infamous "@ss sweat"!
WINNER: Ergonomic
YHour choice! Do you race--traditional or keepfit/polaris/endurance---ergo. I have to admit my spuds loose their feeling after about 1/2 hr in the saddle and quite right too the seat then feels moulded to my arse. the saddle is a bit of a pain on the mag trainer. Trail buzz is a pain on the hand, I go one handed on flat straights to rest the hands.. you should stand every so often on the bike either down hill or climbing to rest your arse. So the answer is horses for courses have both! is your seat anchor at the frount or back of the rails? thats incorrect. get a longer shorter stem or a layback seat post and get the rails in the center of the post anchors, then the suspension effect works best. Keep riding its great
WINNER: Tie
If it hurts don't ride it (!) Simple really.
WINNER: Tie
I road many traditional saddles for the last 15 years and didn't start noticing slight problems (like freaky urination) until a couple years ago. Even though I didn't like the styling of the ergonomic saddles, I thought it was in my best interest to give it a try. I ride around 50 miles a week (weather permitting) and noticed a big difference not only my problems going away, but in comfort level too.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I like to have some extra room for my balls. If you don't mind your balls being crushed, go traditional. No sex for ya, either.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I prefer no seat at all. What better ergonomics are there? Those suspension seat posts are fabulous!
Ciaio
WINNER: Ergonomic
I prefer no seat at all, what better ergonomics is there? those suspension posts are fabulous!
Ciao
WINNER: Ergonomic
My balls are big. I need hole in seat for comfort. No hole seats suck....my balls...are big. Good night.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Saddle choice is pretty personal, but I'll give my two cents because I just can't stop talking. I've had success with a few traditional saddles, but ergonomic saddles like Koobis and the high-end models of the old-school Specialized Body Geometry (with the pronounced groove all the way up to the tip of the nose) do an incredibly consistent job of supporting my weight on my "sit-bones" and keeping my perineum from feeling like it's been used as astroturf at a Chicago Bears game after I do a 30-miler with a bunch of climbing where I'm up on the button spinning. I'll use any saddle that works - I've got a traditional-looking WTB with cutouts in the shell that seems to work pretty well right now - but when I've got a little windfall money and I'm saddle shopping, I'll always give the ergo saddles first shot.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I am a uk resident. In August I go to France to have a pudendal operation. It will cost me �2000. The injury was sustained from 12 years of cycling on a regular seat.
You guys are all missing the point. It is not your 'stuff' that is affected. It is the perineum that can be damaged; the perineum contains the nerves that supply penis and allow orgasm.
I now have no sensation or orgasm most of the time. I am 30.
Beware!
WINNER: Ergonomic
Both are pain in the ass!!!!!
WINNER: Tie
Both are pain in the ass!!!!!
WINNER: Tie
Traditional. Lovely Selle Flite with titanium rails. Never hurts the winning package
WINNER: Traditional
ergonomics the way to go
WINNER: Ergonomic
all about trdaitional
WINNER: Traditional
Ive got a traditional
WINNER: Traditional
I have the Terry fly on my cyclocross bike which gets lots of road miles...it's way comfortable and super light. I have a Fizik on my mountain bike which is not comfortable when riding slow or on road. HOWEVER..if you are riding off-road, your ass should never sit in one spot long enough to hurt the "stuff". For road (when you're going slow) or fitness bikes where you sit too much, get something to protect the package. Off-road and serious?...go light, go durable, whatever, but ergo is no good, heavy, and feels weird.
WINNER: Traditional
Trad all the way, stop giving into the hype, I have riden for years on hard seats and there has been nothing wrong with my stuff. Ergonomic seats are for people who don't ride enough to get used to being in the saddle, so get off your sorry butts and go for a ride.
WINNER: Traditional
ergo because it doesn't hurt your package when you ride long and hard
WINNER: Ergonomic
It depends on bike and rider feeling. I use both of them but on different bikes. Let's call it a draw.
WINNER: Tie
Don't know which is better, still havn't found a seat that fits me well... I was thinking of trying a Brooks leather next...
WINNER: Tie
I rode traditional for about 15 years... Then i turned about 18, and ever since then, i Cannot Sit Down on a bike. I dont know what the hell kind of nerve damage i did, or if growing to full size (250lb) just made physics say, "you cant put that much force on a 3 inch wide strip of ass." I hope getting a ergo seat soon fixes my junk.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I've tried a few ergonomic saddles, including Specialized and Terry. Didn't care for the feel...especially the Specialized...really uncomfortable.
Then I tried a used traditional ti-Flight saddle my boss had sitting around the bike shop. Felt great once dialed in. 300 miles later, still felt great...but had to give it back.
Broken hearted, I bought a new traditional ti-Flight with the little gel insert in the crotch area. At first, it was a little uncomfortable. A hundred miles or so later, my saddle started to gain that comfy feel of the old Flight saddle. A couple months later, I don't know it is there.
A properly adjusted saddle will leave little contact/pressure on your crotch, regardless of the design (traditional or ergonomic). A saddle will need to be broken in...ask any seasoned rider who loves their Flight or Brooks saddle. The rails will actually lose a little tension strenth over time and become very slightly forgiving, as does the plastic. The leather and thin foam will comform to your tush.
My 2 cents: When you buy a new ride, keep the saddle that you have on the bike (regardless of what the LBS staff my say...they always love love newbies who buy a 100.00 ergonomic saddle along with their bike purchase). Spend some time on the saddle, and be sure that you have it properly adjusted (ask your LBS or experienced riding peers for assistance). Don't be afraid to tweek the adjustments a little bit (a LITTLE bit!). If after a couple hundred miles or so, you are not comfy on your tush, then possily check out another design.
BLUNT: Give your current saddle a fair shake. If after a couple hundred miles and a little tweeking, it still kills your rear, then try something different.
WINNER: Tie
if you got no balls and a little dinky winker then go traditional but if you got the porn star thing goin on then go ergo and save your seeds
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic all the way.. My tail bone was hurting after about half an hour of riding, so I bought an ergonomic saddle and the pain is gone.. Plus it looks pretty cool too.
WINNER: Ergonomic
If you ride more than 10 hours a week go ergo or suffer the fate of my brother. They are taking part of his inner cheek to rebuid his shredded urethra next week. He is currently on his couch, with a catheter, in pain, playing my ps2.
Save the traditional for the races.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I like a hard racing board. I get moreleverage to the pedals, and there is less chaffing. Besides, it is cheaper usually because you are no paying for as much engineering.
WINNER: Traditional
If you get the right traditional seat, it will put pressure in all the right places and not the wrong places. My nuts prefer a decent traditional seat over any ergo, and so does my ass, especially on long rides.
WINNER: Traditional
Listen to your butt. Ride what it likes.
WINNER: Tie
It's a tie, whatever your butt likes is the best.
WINNER: Tie
ergonomic= soft, forgiving, cushy, comfy, added source of shock absorbtion from unexpected dips and bumps. a little bit heavier
traditional= hard, uncomfortable. yet...light weight
WINNER: Ergonomic
I started with a traditional and decided to go to the ergonomic thinking it would be more comfortable. I did not feel a big difference but rumor has it that the cut out takes a significant amount of pressure of f the prostate. This is a good thing since biopsies are done with long sharp needles up the........ You get the point........or hopefully you don't
Out
WINNER: Ergonomic
I started with a traditional and decided to go to the ergonomic thinking it would be more comfortable. I did not feel a big difference but rumor has it that the cut out takes a significant amount of pressure of f the prostate. This is a good thing since biopsies are done with long sharp needles up the........ You get the point........or hopefully you don't
Out
WINNER: Ergonomic
i've ridden traditional and i've ridden ergonomic and a traditional that's great for a begginer but for a racer the ergonomic gets my vote
WINNER: Tie
I want the most comfortable ride at all times, but I used regular seats for the first 11 years of riding. Then when Ergonomic seats came out I switched about 2 years ago to see what all the hype was about. I got a Specialized seat and it is much more comfortable, especially on long rides, than the old standby. No more pressure points aching, and Jimmy thanks me every day.
Lets put it this way:
BUY AN ERGONOMIC SEAT!
It's like buying a $39.99 extended warranty that guarantees no harm will come to your purple-headed yougurt-spitting pal.
You can be a 4-star general for life with an ergonomic seat, because you know your soldier will always salute.
If you consider yourself a good sailor, buy a good ergonomic seat so you will always be able to hoist your main sail.
And most important: Your girlfriend or wife (or both) will be able to thank you down the road, over and over and over again! =)
WINNER: Ergonomic
In the old days leather was the only saddle to have for real comfort. After about 500 miles, they'd be custom shaped by your body. Leather is still around, but now there are all these gel and ergonomic saddles. I have the best of both worlds--a leather,ergonomic saddle. It's a world of difference to me, not only between my legs, but on my back as well. The biggest benefit was to my lower back. I'm sticking with ergonomic from now on, though I can understand how people might prefer a leather traditional saddle instead.
WINNER: Ergonomic
The impotence thing may be crap...but then again maybe not. I'm not taking the chance of some Doc giving me the word that the "junk" is junk. Crap or no crap, the ergos are more comfortable and that means better and harder and longer riding. Right?
WINNER: Ergonomic
I GOT THAT SAME SPECIALIZED ONE THAT IS ON THE PICTURE! anyway i love it and my ass doesn't get sore like it used to. Plus its easy to get back off of and doesn't weigh 500 pounds with a gel seat on it and springs underneath (those rock btw most comfortable thing ever)
WINNER: Ergonomic
So your saying Ergo? I have issues... Severe pain in my nuts.. and Numbness on the ride side of my genitala. It hurts.! Right now i use traditional, but if i do go with Ergo how long is it going to take for this pain to go away? Theres no use going to a doctor becsaue all he is going to say is change your seat, new bike shorts, and stay off your bike. Whats my solution? It hurts just sitting in my chair at work.. F*CK
WINNER: Ergonomic
I use both saddle types and decided you should be standing and stretching enough to prevent any saddle related problems unless you are a triathlete or timetrialer hammering in the aerotuck position for extended times
WINNER: Tie
I agree.If the seat is adjusted just right,it's fine.Of course,traditional seats aren't for everyone so,it's up to you.
WINNER: Traditional
i've never ridden an ergo saddle. I'm fine with my regular one. If it's adjusted properly, it won't make you numb. You have to ride a lot and get used to it too...
WINNER: Traditional
traditional is better
WINNER: Traditional
Look guys its ur dick, not mine (but mines fine...for the record)...i am using ergo...and i feel comfy...if u guys wanna have the jello-like wiener...than use the traditional...there i said it.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic; my ass tells it!
WINNER: Ergonomic
I go with ergonomic. I don't get numb when riding.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Eronomic all the way. Tried all kinds of traditional saddles and still the same old numbness would return. I can ride all day on my Specialized saddle without any pain or numbness.
WINNER: Ergonomic
oh so much more comfortable.....
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergonomic are more comfortable, and lighter, and that's all that matters!
WINNER: Ergonomic
My ergo seat put an end to chafing and numbness.
WINNER: Ergonomic
because i is more comfortable...
WINNER: Ergonomic
No contest. The ergo does it. Of course, your saddle ALWAYS needs to be in the correct position. But man, my life is so much better with the new WTB ergo saddle!
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergonomic are shit tradition rule
WINNER: Traditional
About six months after I started road cycling my "unit" stopped working so well. I only had about 25% of my normal wood. I had always experienced a lot of crotch pain from the pressure of the saddle and the extended sitting. I hadn't made any lifestyle changes and the only cause that I could come up with was the saddle. I got a few of the cheap Specialized BG sport saddles and thankfully I returned to normal after another six months. Maybe it was some sort of weird coincidence but I'm not going to risk it. Ergonomic is for me.
WINNER: Ergonomic
My Ergonomic seat has proved far more comfortable to me both on and off road.
WINNER: Ergonomic
18 months ago I switched from traditional to ergonomic - Specialized Ergo saddle and I would not change back for MTB - however for road bike I still have the fabulous Flite Titanium
WINNER: Tie
Ergo if that's your thing. I use a koobi and love it but some butts fit tradtional better.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I've tried both, traditional on the road and mountain and the junk savers on the road. It just doesn't matter, if the saddle isn't properly adjusted then it just won't work right for you. It's my oppinion that you should just stick with your trusty Flight (old style) or whatever saddle fits your bum the best.
WINNER: Traditional
I have tried all kinds of saddles, the traditional ones left me numb and sore days after a long or hard ride. I tried the Specialized Body Comp and no more numbess. I can ride for hours on end without any problems
WINNER: Ergonomic
The whole junk-saver saddle craze is a bunch of hooey. No one's gonna go impotent from riding a properly adjusted "traditional" saddle. Wake up guys......it's a marketing ploy. I'll stick w/my trusty Flite.
WINNER: Traditional
It's got to be Ergonomic, why you might asked? It's all about when you've reached an hour of riding and started feel uncomfortable, you know where.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Got to go w/ the traditional- as a matter of fact, ride my Ideal leather saddle from a 70 Peugot PX10 I rode for decades. It now sits on a Stumpjumper I commute on.
WINNER: Traditional
I tried many types of saddle, the last one a WTB SST-K that made my arse so sore I could`nt sit down. I now use a Terry Liberator, great no pain at all. I will neVer use a traditional saddle again, sod the extra weight.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I have a Koobi Au Chrono on one of my bikes and agree with their blurb. In does make you seat correctly and relieve undue pressiure on your 'nads!
WINNER: Ergonomic
I have a Koobi Au Chrono on one of bikes and agree with their blurb. In does make you seat correctly and relieve undue pressiure on your 'nads!
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergos let me switch easily from muddy Illinois MTB trails to 100km road rides without death by saddle sores. They really help my ischial tuberosities.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Save the Jewel Without a doubt
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ok here it is. I have been trying for the last 6 months to find and purchase a seat to which I do not get the "numb crotch" syndrome.I have recently pruchased and tryed the "Italia-Prolink" saddle and have had alot better success thus far. This is by far the best saddle I have tryed.
Anyhow my search conntinues for that "perfect" saddle. Oh! and if you know of anyone who might be intrested in a "new-used" saddle, I have 18 to choose from.
Best Regards,
Greg Wainscott
"Ride hard, ride fast, make it last"
WINNER: Ergonomic
You guys make it sound like numb genitallia is a BAD thing!
WINNER: Traditional
Always Worked, Always will.
WINNER: Traditional
Oh no! My nuts are numb! I gotta quit riding? No, I got an ergo AND a gel cover. It's heavier, but...NO WIMPS!
WINNER:
I've ridden both and it depends on how much time is spent in the saddle on a weekly basis. For me the break point is around 100 miles per week. Anything less than 100 per week, ergo is best, 100 and above I'll take the traditional saddle.
Another plus for the high-end traditionals is that they are usually lighter than the high-end ergos.
One final: I've never had problems getting it up. I know if I ever did have problems, I would probably switch to ergo for a while to see if things got better, otherwise, who cares? If it's not broke - don't try to fix it.
WINNER: Traditional
Traditional? To me that means Brooks or Idale LEATHER not some modern wana be. I played that game 20 years ago spent $300.00 on a host of "Modern" scientificly designed saddles, I NEVER found one I
could ride for more than three or four hours without pain! I broke down and ordered a leather sadle from my then LBS in Ft. Worth TX
They came up with an Ideale 90 saddle that was more comfortable right out of the box than any saddle I'd ever riden! I still use that same 20 year old saddle. Those $300.00 dollars of Plastic and whatever went
to the city dump where they belong. DON NOT LET SADDLE MAKER SNOW YOU WITH THE "MODERN ERGONOMIC/ANTATOMIC" CRAP IT'S AS LIE, BUY LEATHER, BUY BROOKS BE HAPPY FOR LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WINNER:
My new bike came with an ergo seat. Simply the best seat i ever had...
WINNER: Ergonomic
hmmm. . . let's see; a bit of extra weight versus happy genitals no foreseeable end to my sex life. this IS a toughy . . .
WINNER: Ergonomic
Numb-out of the peckster was a real problem on long, steep grinder hills. I purchased a Terry Liberator Ti Race saddle and the problem has been about 80% cured. I now have ergo saddles on my HT and FS rides.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I�ve got ergonomic saddles, they really work, no discuss!
WINNER: Ergonomic
I use the Specialized ergo saddle pictured above and find it quite comfortable.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Even though I think that the SDG Bel Air is one of the best seats I ever put my ass on, I have to go Ergo. My privates are much happier now.
WINNER: Ergonomic
This is a pretty lame comparison but I go with traditional. I've never had any problems really, but I guess ergonomic is a nice option for people but it tends to add at least 100 grams.
WINNER: Traditional
ergo 4 me ...i'm much more comfy w/ the ergo design...no more numbness or discomfort of before....i really diggin my koobi...later
WINNER: Ergonomic
They are almost always lighter,and some ergo seats are not comfortable.
WINNER: Traditional
Brooks Swift is the most compfy saddle made.
WINNER: Traditional
traditional
WINNER: Traditional
Traditional Saddles still do it for me.
WINNER: Traditional
Ergonomic takes getting used to, but now I love it, no competition
WINNER: Ergonomic
Look here people! Since I lost my buttocks in the war (yeah I know, what a pain!) I have been ridin without a saddle!
Thats right folks! NO SADDLE! "How?" you may ask.
Well here is how: You take your good ordinary aluminum seat post, you buy yourself a lock ring about 4 inches in diameter, slip that puppy about 3 inches down the post and tighten.
Then you buy some water soluble female lubricant, lube the 3 inches thats stickin up past the lock ring, cut a hole in your shorts, and slide it on up!
Guranteed that you will NEVER slide off that post!
Just don't forget to warm that post before insertion if you ride in the winter!
See ya!
WINNER: Tie
it dosn't fill up with water as fast
WINNER: Ergonomic
I like ergo saddles more, because an uncomfy ride is a bad ride. However, if you sit so much that you go numb on a traditional, you are lazy, dude.
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergo 4 me!!!!!!!!!!!!no numbess more cumfy!!!!!!!
WINNER: Ergonomic
I switched to a Terry Liberator a few years back. I've never had any saddle discomfort since. And my 43 year old butt isn't as tough as it used to be! I think Terry was one of the original ergo saddles because of their work designing women-specific saddles. I didn't have any dysfunction with the traditional saddle, just a sore butt. I haven't had one day of soreness since I switched to the Terry. I recommend it 100%.
WINNER: Ergonomic
The answer is not cut and dry people. A crappy ergo seat can be the worst experience while a quality ergo can be perfect. Overall, I would have to say that a good legit ergo seat is the best.
WINNER: Ergonomic
i think traditional is the way to go, they're lighter weight, better looking, and i think most are better materials, although a lil bit a gel near the boys aint bad.
WINNER: Traditional
After hating my bike's OE saddle, I tried two:
- Titec Berzerker (really just a traditional saddle on steroids)
&
- Specialized Body Geometry (GODAWFUL! Split in back kept my ringpiece comfy, but annoyed my cheeks!)
Now I use an SDG Grand Prix. It has gel and cutout, but both are covered, giving it a traditional look, and, for the most part, feel. I gotta call it a tie since it's a combination of the two. My point is, you gotta find a saddle that borrows a little something from each.
WINNER: Tie
I bought a new bike this summer that came with a traditional seat. After using it for about a week I began to experience numbness in my genitals. After trying every adjustment I could think of on the seat and post I bought a Fisher Liberator. This cured my "problem". Ergonomic gets my vote.
WINNER: Ergonomic
ergonomic does not displace unwanted pressure, it just localizes it to isolated spots and amplyfies it.
WINNER: Traditional
TRADITIONAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WINNER: Traditional
Ergonomic FOR SURE!!! I rode across Europe on a mountain bike this summer on a traditional until I had a pee problem. I had to pee everywhere all the time. I couldn't hold it in, until I got an Ergonomic seat and now everything is back to normal. Mmm...peeing normal... I actually bought the one that is in the photo above. Since then I've been doing lots of xc riding and I still love the Ergo.
WINNER: Ergonomic
jamo-7....YOU'RE THE MAN. Only a real man would dare to ride a all leather BROOKS or IDEAL saddle
WINNER:
Go traditional, you shouldn't sit so much you go numb nuts, anyway! The seat is there for balance at speed. Put your weight on the pedals ((Pushing down=speed)=win race)). For the math geeks. Take it as a hint that your form is off, and adjust your style to fix the situation. This is one case where money can't always fix the problem.
WINNER: Traditional
better for speed riding
WINNER: Ergonomic
Brooks leather saddles rule! Let your own tush do the customizing. Traditional should mean, Turbo, Concor, Avocet. Don't fall victim to the narrow saddle pitfall.
WINNER: Traditional
For sure we all looked for comfort and support in any saddle. I have try SDG saddles and SPECIALIZED saddles, even that I found sopport in SDG saddles I prefer the SPECILIZED ergonomic saddles which provides me with both comfort and 75% support compare to SDG.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I am new to the sport but have put enough hours in the saddle to understand the arguement. My bike (see my review of the Rocky Mountain Elevation) came with a Traditional saddle. It sucked. It hurt the...uh...ummm...well you know. So i began shopping for a new one. I tried both ergonomic "junk savers" and traditional saddles. I ended up with an O2. I think that's traditional. But the point is, neither is better. You just gotta go out there and try 'em all to see what's best for you. I know that didn't help you but shopping for a saddle isn't exactly like shopping for a hub or headset, there isn't a best (go CHRIS KING!)...there's my 2 cents
WINNER: Tie
Ergonomic saddles were brought out in a rush of panic after a flawed piece of scientific research about cycling and the bits 'down below'. Am I being cycnical in thinking that saddle manufacturers saw this as a chance to tap a market that was never there?
WTB used to make their prototype saddles out of wood before they made it into leather and plastic, it's not about the padding on a saddle but the shape, how do you think that 5mm of padding and funky shapes and holes behaves when you put your fat ar$e on it?
WTB or Flite, no padding, no embroidery, no holes.
WINNER: Traditional
ergonomic. Traditional saddles hurt.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Once your a$$ gets ussed to the ergo your set!! And you can have some kiddies later
WINNER: Ergonomic
I've had different traditional seats on my Cannondale Road bike trying to get an comfortable fit. I went ergo with a Serfas Reative Gel seat (~$40), and I am sold. It's vey comfortable fully seated or jumt poised on the bumps. I've been doing 18-40 miles on it almost every other day and would never go back.
WINNER: Ergonomic
WTB MAKES UNDERCOVER "I DON'T WANT TO GO NUMB SADDLES" THAT REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE W/OUT A WEIGHT PENALTY.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I ride both a mt bike and a road bike. My naughty bits have very rarely gotten numb riding off-road. I'm pretty sure that this is because of all the standing and shifting I do offroad. I used to get numb a lot on the road, even when I deliberatedly reminded myself to stand up whenever the terrain steepened, etc. To make road riding as comfortable as offroad riding, I got a Terry Liberator saddle some years ago. The thing is incredibly comfortable but is too wide for regular riding (3-4 hours for me) so I now use it for commuting. I then got a Terry Fly (for my road bike) which is narrow, light, very well-made and very comfortable. I don't get numb except when I sit for hours on end, so the speak. I don't know if the obvious superiority (for me) of this saddle is due to the hole or because the gals at Terry know what they heck they're doing. Who cares??
On my mtb, I found that the Selle Italia Trimatic (a traditional saddle with Ti rails and minimal elastomer bumpers) was definitely more comfortable - for my sitz bonz at any rate. Still, I found that on my aluminum hardtail, I would get bruised if I really pushed it on downhills, so I got a USE suspension seat post. While this is definitely a different topic, using a suspension seat post eliminates any back or kidney problems and I think it would allow me to ride on any saddle I want. They just eradicate any saddle questions (as long as the saddle is narrow).
As for the traditionalists that say you just have to toughen your nether regions for the abuse a saddle gives you, I used to have a small bump just forward of the anus. I first noticed it sometime after I started riding a lot. I figured this was simply the toughening of tissue that comes with getting used to sitting on something that is extremely unnatural. Maybe this extra tissue was preventing discomfort because it was protecting my plumbing and/or electrical systems. Who knows. What I do know is that with the suspension seat post on the Mt bike, the Terry saddle on the road bike and a couple years, the bump is mostly gone. Also, when I occasionally ride a traditional saddle, they are immediately uncomfortable. I now know why the definition of a pain in the ass is "an obnoxious and unnecessary irritation" - accent on "unnecessary."
I would agree that the hoopla about erectile dysfunction is hyped beyond reason and that companies are using the sensational nature of the hocus pocus to sell more product. I also cannot see any reason whatsoever to stop riding on a comfortable saddle. But why put up with a pain in the ass when you wouldn't do this in any other area of your life? Just get a not-too-soft saddle that is no wider than it needs to be to support your sitz bonz. Then get out and ride. If things still get numb, do what the doctors all say: ask an appropriate person to massage the area - while obeying all local ordinances, of course.
WINNER: Ergonomic
The new saddles are so sweet compared to the traditional garbo... If you're still riding the old shiat.. get off of it right now.. It's a pain in the ass and the balls. You'll be loving the new technology in biking with the better saddles with a more comfortable ride.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I don't ride every day, nor do I hink I'll die if I can't ride every day. OK, call me normal. I tried the regular saddles. Not bad for a while. Then I tried ergonomic - I'm not going back.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Traditional is fine for short rides (i.e. up to 3 or 4 hours), but on those occasional 100+ milers there's no question here. Everybody I ride with has made the switch. I'm still using the Flite gel which quite frankly isn't any different from a traditional saddle. In fact, it almost seems that the gel is harder than the rest of the saddle! Of course, it is a Flite which makes up for that in a big way. Still, after 6 hours of sitting in the saddle (road riding) it's not good enough. For mountain biking, the difference is much less noticeable since I do a lot more standing.
WINNER: Ergonomic
If your butt hurts, you're probably not on your bike enough.
If your prostate hurts, your bike isn't set up properly.
Your seat should be level, nose up does the damage.
Nose down and you're tiring out your arms and hands from holding yourself on your bike. Don't buy into that corporate crap and keep your good ol' traditional saddle, it'll be best for you in the end. Just don't use a seat that's too wide and don't buy a gel padded seat to compensate, you'll just chafe the skin right off your thighs.
For xc (i've ridden xc since 1990) a good narrow seat like Flite is best. I have an Atlas Fizzik saddle on my downhiller, but to be honest, the banana seat on my Apple Krate is by far, the most comfortable seat I have, on any of my bikes.
Remember bio-pace chainrings? Now think ergonomic saddles...
WINNER: Traditional
Being female and riding many differnt saddle designs both designed for men and women I feel the ergonomic designs are better. Making sex specific ergonmic saddles takes it one step further. There are some sensitive areas on both men and women and any way designers can take some of the stress off a delicate area make the nights after a ride more fun too!!!
WINNER: Ergonomic
I started cycling over 25 years ago. When the debate was still between "Brooks" or "Ideal" leather saddles, and just how long you had to own one, before they finally broke you in. Back when real men rode bikes and didn't worry about having kids. Back when no-one talked about erectile dysfunction. Back when you had to ride a saddle for a year or two, to just break it in. Those were the days when a cyclist could not be charged for sexual assault, because the most you could be charged with....Was assault with a dead weapon.
Ever since then I have tried almost every new saddle that has come out. Looking for that "Magic" saddle that will keep my backside comfortable for hours on end. Even todays Traditionals are more comfy than the best NEW "Brooks". But, I still meet some old guys who swear by their old leather saddles, which after decades of riding look more like a hammock than a saddle .
I even remember the first time I saw an "Ergonomic" saddle. It was originally marketed towards women and their delicate anatomy. I must admit though, that I really do appreciate the first few men who were brave enough to give them a try. Even if I did tease them and call them a sissy for riding a "womans" saddle...Sorry guys.
Now I'm one of those sissy guys. But hey, the boys and I are a lot happier these days, and I must admit. That I am very glad those saddle companys changed their marketing stratagy to include us men
and decided to call them "Ergonomic" saddles. I now have one on both my road and Mt. bikes.
Here's a lil side note too...after riding for years on a traditional saddle and many of those years, on a leather one...I still have 4 semi normal kids. So maybe it was how I was sitting, or perhaps my bikes were set up correctly. Either way does not really matter, because now all of my bikes (road and mountain) have the ergos.
So if ya think yer tough enough and you can sit juuuust right. And you really think that "Traditional" is the way to go....Then be "Traditional" and go out and get a Brooks leather saddle. Otherwise, who really cares which one is better. It's what YOU and your anatomy are comfortable with.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Saddle? What saddle? Just ride the post baby, you'll save a lot of weight and money.
WINNER: Tie
ergonomic without a doubt! You gotta be gentle on the genitalia!
WINNER: Ergonomic
it's how you sit, not what you sit on
i have used both styles of seats and i can strongly say that ergonomical seats are really a joke. they were simply made to make money and play on males fear of losing something very near and dear to them. if you are properly fit on your bike you will have no problems no matter how hard your seat is. putting a line down the center isn't going to help anything anyways. all that does is create pressure points on the side of your ass.my selle italia flite is all i need. remember it's all in how you sit, not so much what you sit on.
WINNER: Traditional
it's how you sit, not what you sit on
i have used both styles of seats and i can strongly say that ergonomical seats are really a joke. they were simply made to make money and play on males fear of losing something very near and dear to them. if you are properly fit on your bike you will have no problems no matter how hard your seat is. putting a line down the center isn't going to help anything anyways. all that does is create pressure points on the side of your ass.my selle italia flite is all i need. remember it's all in how you sit, not so much what you sit on.
WINNER: Traditional
I never relized that the wee bit of annoying back pain I was experiencing as a result of riding hours and hours per week was so easily relieved by the use of an erogonomic saddle. I just wanted one because other saddles were causing me pain in the perineal (which is the part of your body which rests and rolls on the fore part of the saddle when you lean forward--on men at least). There were times I had to take a few days off from riding because of pain, but after about a year and a half on an ergonomic saddle (made by TFI of Italy) I can swear that those problems are completely gone.
WINNER: Ergonomic
No race. Ergonomic
WINNER: Ergonomic
specialized pro is the best saddle availible
WINNER: Ergonomic
Flite was the only hard-ass saddle that cut it, but i prefer the few more paper clips of weight for a nutsaver saddle. I hate padded shorts too. They plug up the cutout and defeat the purpose.
WINNER: Ergonomic
i ride a sdg belair comp and i think i like it but its the only one i've ever ridden.
WINNER: Traditional
I have been riding for over 30 years. I started out with Brooks and we all know how that was. I now use a Specialized ergonomic and find it comfortable as well as less damaging to vital organs.
WINNER: Ergonomic
absolutely, hands down, no question...that numbness...well, i don't like it one bit. this is, of course, probably personal, and certainly not scientific. if you don't get the numbness near the onions, then ride what you like, but if you've got a traditional saddle, and you lose feeling in that area, give an ergo saddle a try.
WINNER: Ergonomic
I've used a few traditional saddles and two ergonomics. I don't know a thing about studies having to do with erectile dysfunction, but I have to admit that I have more feeling in my taint after riding the ergos than I do with the traditionals I've tried, especially after long, hard climbs. I haven't had problems with actual erectile dysfunction per se (or maybe I just won't admit it to you!), but I have noticed, at different times, both numbness and a discomfort bordering on pain in my perineal area that definitely felt like it was excess-compaction-related during and after use of some traditional saddles. Like I've said, I've noticed no actual erectile dysfunction to go along with the discomfort, but I feel no compulsion to subject myself or such saddles to further testing for the sake of scientific accuracy in establishing such a link! Who knows if the saddle would give me erectile dysfunction? Who cares?! I'm switching to a saddle where I don't have to find out personally and letting other, less selfishly motivated individuals do the research!
I have found that moving to ergonomic saddles has corrected this problem to a measurable degree - even with an ergo saddle that isn't as comfortable in general, this specific sort of compaction-related wear and tear can disappear completely and immediately. I think the most important thing, especially if you climb a lot, is to make sure that the saddle has a groove that goes all the way to the front. I especially like the Koobis for this - the nose is completely split (I have an Enduro I like quite well, though it could be vastly improved by cutting the back end narrower by a cm or so to facilitate sliding off the back for descending) and it really does make a difference. I figure a saddle with a bit of taint-groove in the back is better than one with none at all, but you're still losing your benefits where you really need them most - when you're up on the nose climbing and really punishing that tissue (and logically, for all of us chicken-littles out there panicking and waiting for the sky to fall, that one big artery or vein or whichever it is that runs right through your perineum).
Even if you use an ergo saddle, you still need to get the right one, and ergo saddle design is no panacea or proof against poor shape or fit - I think they work, but it's still just as hard for me to find an ergo saddle that's shaped just right for my chode as it is to find a good traditional one. Also, if a friend of mine recommends a particular traditional saddle based on what he or she knows about my saddle shape preference, I'll certainly try it, and if it works and I like it, I'll buy it, too. But for me it's nice to know that there is a reasonable selection of saddles to choose from that are specifically designed to be gentle on my delicate bits. They really seem to work for me.
Of course, in my opinion, there is no cooler-looking saddle than the red, sparkle-flecked, white-trimmed Schwinn Stinger. But there's a reason they call it the "Stinger". Ow!
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergro saddles have to me always smacked of the sort of marketing hype that all too commonly plagues bike mags. After doing a little rooting around the internet, I came across the following archived thread which strongly suggests that the whole errectile-dysfunction smokescreen seems to be based on a statisically unsound, carefully fudged piece of research:
"The claim is that it solves ED (erectile dysfunction) based on a
spurious "study" of a population of bicyclists and swimmers in which
the bicyclists had a greater occurrence of ED. The sample and had 13
occurrences, all of whom were in the over 50 age group, something that
was not revealed in the published data. As it turns out, both
athletic groups in the sample had a lower incidence of ED than the
public at large. Beyond that, bicyclists had a lower occurrence than
the swimmers when corrected for age, since this is a natural function
of aging that ultimately reaches all males. The bicyclists were 10
years older than the swimmers who reported the deficiency."
The complete thread can be found at: http://yarchive.net/bike/seats.html
I myself have used two saddles- a narrow Viscount and my current Selle Italia Flite, which are for me completely fine. If you are unsure, try out your saddle of choice and return it if it doesn't fit, but don't just swallow whatever rubbish the marketing drones at Corporation X throw at you.
WINNER: Traditional
I love my new Specialized Body Geometry saddle. It provides me with total comfort while riding. No more sore backside after a long ride. If anything can increase my ride satisfation I am all for it.
WINNER: Ergonomic
After having the big V, Ergonomic was the only way to go. Trust Me..
WINNER: Ergonomic
Ergo is the way to go. Much easier on you which means longer time on the trails.
WINNER: Ergonomic
i would'nt know i never sit on mine
WINNER:
I tried a ergonomic selle italia flite trans am and I hated it.
I think traditional saddles are much better because they are flatter than ergonomic and cutouts hit me in the wrong sensitive areas.
WINNER: Traditional
true ergonomic seats are a progression. its that simple. no more numbness on long rides! look at a traditional seat, it is dome shaped were you sit. that means it is going to push up in areas that it shouldn't be. an ergonomic seat is much flatter and has material removed were the seat would normally put to much pressure on a certain part of your anatomy. (selle italia max flite) this is the most comfortable and easy to move around on seat i have used. i like it!
I want to give Graham a little advice,( a fellow rider, stop sitting on your balls and they won't hurt anymore.
WINNER: Ergonomic
Koobi AU Chrono- Second Koobi and loving it.
WINNER: Ergonomic
For mountain biking I like traditionals better. This is because you tend to move around on the saddle alot, you tend to move off the sweet spot on the ergos. Also you tend to stand rather than sit for extended periods so theres not as much pressure on your privates.
Now for road use, I'm all for ergos. You tend to spend alot longer times sitting in the saddle, and you shift around less.
WINNER: Tie
actually, there is a research showing that with traditional saddles the circulation of blood in the testicles is reduced