Take Care of Your Tushie: Preventing Saddle Soreness

Riding a bicycle is a great hobby that lets you get excellent exercise while enjoying the world around you. Biking for more than a few minutes, however, can be a pain in the butt—literally. One reason for this is saddle sores, which form on the rear due to abrasion.

You can avoid saddle sores by using high-quality bike accessories in Naples, FL, but there are other tricks and tips that can also prevent you from this painful side effect of biking. Read on for more information:

• A good fitting saddle: The first mistake you can make is jumping on a bike without paying attention to the saddle. You’ll want to consider two main things when choosing a saddle. First, you need to pick a saddle that fits your rear end, and that means measuring how far apart your sit bones are. Second, you need to think about how you like to ride: are you someone who does long and relaxed rides, or someone who likes to race? A local bike shop can help you determine which type of saddle will work best for your riding style, and it has to do with whether you need padding in the front or rear of the saddle. Finally, keep in mind that finding the right fit is not always a science but also an art, and that you may need to try a few different saddles to find the right one.
• Shorts that fit like a glove: Another accessory you need to fit well are your cycling shorts. Most cycling shorts come with a chamois layer that provides padding, but as with saddles, these can differ a lot depending on brands and styles. Try on several, and make sure to buy shorts that are both tight enough that they don’t shift around while you move and loose enough that they don’t squeeze you in uncomfortable ways.
• Wear it right: When it comes to bike shorts, make sure that you are not wearing any additional layers in between your skin and the shorts. They are made to act like underwear, in a way, to prevent any extra chafing from additional layers. Because of this, you will need to wash them after every wear to kill off any bacteria.
• Treat any sores: If you still end up with saddle sores, you should treat them to prevent them from getting worse. Make sure to clean and treat the sores thoroughly and wear loose-fitting clothing if possible. Apply an antibacterial cream to help them clear up, and stay off the bike for a bit. If things worsen, head into the doctor’s office.

The right bike accessories in Naples, FL can go a long way in preventing saddle sores and helping you enjoy your ride. Big Momma’s Bicycles boasts an exceptional staff that can help you with any of your biking needs. On top of offering accessories, Big Momma’s Bicycles also does tune-ups and repairs on your bike, and can even rent out bikes to you as needed. We’re your one-stop shop for all your cycling needs. Stop by today for more information!

Categorised in: Bike Accessories