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Captain Crash

4 posts since
Jun 14, 2008

Jun 14, 2008 10:03 AM

Profile Design Fast Forward Seat Post: Part Deux

I'm 6'1", 205 pounds. I have my saddle (the Bontrager that came stock on my 2006 Trek 5200 OCLV) set as far back as it can go. As most Clydesdales do, I push back to transfer more strength to the pedals, particularly while climbing. This results in two problems: (1) At max power, my keister is off the back of the saddle; (2) At the back part of the saddle, my left sit bone is prone to discomfort -- anywhere from a dull ache to pain that radiates down my leg. However, that problem resolves itself if I'm seated at the front of the saddle -- or if I'm all the way off the back.

So, my questions are:

1. Has anyone used a Fast Forwad Seat Post as a Fast Backward Seat Post to lengthen the extent to which one can push back (on) the saddle?

2. Is it likely that my saddle -- or its position -- is causing my sit-bone discomfort?

3. If it's the former, would it be remedied by a saddle that is wider and more padded in the rear -- or by one that is more narrow overall?

BTW: I have no perineal discomfort whatsoever.

Thank you for your input.

azazello

12 posts since
Jun 11, 2008

1. Jun 15, 2008 5:42 AM

in response to: Captain Crash

Hi,

You haven't written the size of your bike frame - are you sure it is the proper size for you? For your height you should be riding a 58 cm frame (forgive the metric system). I think it is reasonable to check this first - sorry if it's too evident.

Secondly, yes, your saddle can easily be responsible for your discomfort. Finding the right one can be a long process and sadly no one can help you with that. Personally, I'd use a narrow one but then again I weigh 160 pounds.

In any case I think your idea is somewhat odd. Are you sure that sitting 3-4 cm backwards would not hinder your performance (strain your hips) when riding flat terrain - even though it just might help on climbs? Also, you can always try to climb with high cadence instead of trying to put in maximum torque.

Hope that helps - good luck.

L

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Captain Crash

4 posts since
Jun 14, 2008

2. Jun 15, 2008 10:58 AM

in response to: azazello

This is a can of worms I hesitate to open, but my frame is 62cm (the metric system is an occupational hazard). When I bought the bike, the guy at the LBS was convinced a 58cm frame was too small. Based on his criteria, my leg length, and perhaps my naivete, I was in no position to argue. And the guy who was with me when I bought it, an experienced cyclist and triathlete, agreed with him. So, we are, as they say, where we are.

I tend to favor a more narrow saddle, as well. At this point, I think my best bet is to pony up for a professional fitting, get an informed recommendation from the fitter, and start my saddle search.

Ironically, cycling is the one athletic pursuit that bothers my hips and knees not at all. And, oddly enough, pushing myself back for acceleration on flat terrain, mashing rollers, and taking on sustained cliimbs makes my legs feel better. I move forward on my saddle on flat terrain, just to give myself a change of position.

When I took up cycling, I told myself I could stay interested as long as I was learning. At this rate, I'll be happily pedaling until I'm 300 or so.

All of your comments helped. Thank you.

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azazello

12 posts since
Jun 11, 2008

3. Jun 15, 2008 12:09 PM

in response to: Captain Crash

I see. The 62 cm frame is too big for you by regular standards, but those are calculated upon statistical averages, so it is possible that you have long legs and a relatively short torso, therefore 62 cm might just fit you well. Still, this frame and a fast "backward" post seems to be over the top.

Oddly enough, the problem you report should occur if the bike is too small - why else would you have to move back on the saddle?

I agree that your best shot is a pro fitting. I might add that it might help to go to a different shop than the one that had set you up in order to get a second opinion (let's hope this won't confuse you by contradicting the first one too much).

cheers,

L

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Captain Crash

4 posts since
Jun 14, 2008

4. Jun 15, 2008 12:19 PM

in response to: azazello

Not to worry. I wouldn't return to the shop at which I bought the bike for myriad reasons, overall lack of professionalism among them.

I'll post the results of my long, strange trip here. In the meantime, I remain grateful for your help.

CC

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freewheelbrning

1 posts since
Jun 18, 2008

5. Jun 18, 2008 10:03 PM

in response to: Captain Crash

There are also some seatposts that offer alot of setback without having to use the profile one backwards. Ive had the same probelms with customizing my bike. One thing to remember is that if you raise the seat you also are shifting the seat back as well. Some seatposts that ive tried are the FSA K Force Carbon, Easton EA50 and Truvativ XR. If you mix and match seatposts with much shorter stems you effectively shift your torso further back over your feet. Hope this helps as well!!

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Captain Crash

4 posts since
Jun 14, 2008

6. Jun 20, 2008 10:26 AM

in response to: freewheelbrning

This is it!

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/road-bikes/product-seatposts/2008-fsa-k-force-lite-seatpost-377_240_FALSE.html

With 35mm of setback, this should do it. In fact, I'm going to try it (along with a fitting) before I start playing Saddle Roulette.

Thank you for passing those along from the bottom of my ... well ... you know.

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