A bicycle saddle ( open siduha ) is a part of a bicycle that takes over most of the weight of a cyclist (along with pedals and a steering wheel ). The bicycle saddle on the one hand should be comfortable for sitting on it, and on the other hand should not create difficulties for pedaling. The saddle is mounted on the seat post , which is inserted into the seat tube of the frame .
Content
History
Until the mid-70s, leather saddles were widely used. Such a saddle consists of thick leather stretched over the frame. These saddles are stiff and require some care (the skin should not dry out or get too wet, it should be periodically lubricated with oil). However, with regular riding, leather saddles gradually take the form corresponding to the anatomical features of a particular cyclist. This, according to their fans, justifies the difficulties with caring for the saddle and the inconvenience during the "break-in" of such a saddle [1] [2] .
Sizes
Depending on the purpose of the saddle, its width, stiffness, length, and profile shape may vary.
In general, wider and softer saddles are designed for short trips, and during long trips they can rub the inside of the hips . Narrow and rigid saddles are designed for long trips , however, with a rare ride cause discomfort in the pelvic area. Usually, women's saddles are wider (since on average women have a wider pelvis ).
The optimal width and shape of the saddle depends on the anatomical features of a particular cyclist. To select a saddle, there are special measuring devices. [3]
Seat Design
An ordinary modern saddle consists of four parts [2] :
- The frame, most often metal. It is attached to the seat post with a clip.
- A plastic base that attaches to the frame at three points ("at the corners" of the saddle). She sets the shape of the saddle and spring under the weight of the cyclist.
- Lining that makes the saddle soft. Made of foam material, more expensive options with gel inserts.
- Case
Sometimes a hole is made in the middle of the base so that the saddle presses less on the crotch area. The material of the cover must be wear-resistant, non-slippery , if possible, "breathe".
Shock Absorbers
To mitigate shock when riding on an uneven surface, springs or elastomers can be installed between the seat frame and base. Also, the suspension can be integrated into the seat post .
Seat Position
Usually it is possible to adjust the position of the saddle in three degrees of freedom:
- height - adjustable by pushing the seat post out of the seat tube of the frame;
- tilt - adjustable with a clamp securing the saddle to the seat post;
- a small shift back and forth - is regulated by shifting the frame in the clip.
Height adjustment and a forward-backward shift allow the saddle to be positioned relative to the pedals in the most suitable way for pedaling. Incorrect adjustment can lead to increased load on the knees (most often this is too low a seat) [2] .
Most often, the saddle is horizontal, but a slight tilt back or forward is possible. Too much forward inclination can lead to an increased load on the arms, shoulders and back (since, in order not to move forward from the saddle, the cyclist will have to put more pressure on the steering wheel) [2] .
Bicycle Saddle Repair
Like any other bicycle mechanisms and designs, the saddle can break and must be repaired. The most common saddle problems are:
- seat spring fatigue stress;
- failure of the seat bolt thread;
- deformation of the landing pad;
- mobility and unstable;
- cranked saddle position;
- damage to the landing pin;
- mechanical damage;
- material tears.
Other
To give the saddle more softness or change the appearance, a special additional cover can be put on it.
See also
- Seatpost
Notes
- ↑ www.realbiker.ru An article about a saddle.
- ↑ 1 2 3 4 Sheldon Brown's “Saddles” and “Leather Saddles” articles by Jeof Hazband “Saddles Brooks”
- ↑ Body Geometry Saddles (inaccessible link) . Date of treatment July 18, 2013. Archived July 23, 2013.