When embarking on long rides, comfort is key to enjoying the journey and performing at your best. One of the most crucial components of a smooth, pain-free ride is the saddle. The right bike saddle can make a big difference. It should support and cushion you to avoid discomfort and fatigue. This guide will explore the best bike saddles for long rides. It will offer options for different riding styles, preferences, and body types. A perfect saddle can boost your comfort, whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist.
#1. Serfas Men’s Road/MTB Comfort Saddle
With years of experience in the bike shop industry, many riders find Serfas saddles to be a comfortable and affordable option. While they may not compete with high-end brands like Selle Italia, Serfas provides good value, requiring minimal break-in time.
For instance, one user installed the Serfas RX-921V saddle on an electric bike and experienced a significant boost in comfort during commutes and longer rides. The split design effectively supports the rider, reducing numbness and soreness even on rides exceeding 30 miles.
Another rider, impressed by the longevity of their previous Serfas saddle, opted for a new one, appreciating the comfort it provides despite its bulkier size.
Pros:
- Affordable and comfortable
- Minimal break-in period
- Effective design for reducing discomfort
- Fit adjustments may be needed for women’s models
Verdict:
Serfas saddles offer an excellent balance of comfort and value, making them a great choice for both casual and serious cyclists.
#2. Brooks England Brooks England B17
Brooks Saddle Review
The Brooks saddle is a top choice for cyclists seeking comfort and quality. It arrives well-packaged with proofide lotion and an adjustment key, signaling a premium product.
Many users report remarkable comfort after just a few rides, with one noting it took less than 100 miles to break in. The leather surface allows for easy adjustments while riding, crucial for long distances. Its classic design enhances both modern and vintage bikes.
While some may experience occasional creaking, a simple application of chain lube resolves this. Overall, the saddle’s sturdy construction and beautiful design promise durability for years.
Pros:
- Excellent comfort after minimal break-in
- Easy position adjustments while riding
- Elegant design enhances bike aesthetics
Cons:
- Occasional creaking noise, manageable with lubrication
- Best for those using padded cycling gear
Verdict:
The Brooks saddle is a worthy investment for cyclists who value comfort and style on long rides, combining tradition and functionality effectively.
#3. Selle Royal Men’s Freeway Moderate
This saddle has garnered positive feedback for its high-quality materials and comfort, enhancing the riding experience on bikes like the Specialized Roll. Lightweight and well-designed, many users express they would repurchase it without hesitation.
One rider highlighted the importance of a cutout design and adequate padding for comfort. After extensive testing on various bikes, including tandem and gravel rides, they noted improvements in comfort compared to previous saddles. While they experienced discomfort during a long ride, they appreciated the lack of numbness.
Another reviewer, weighing around 160 lbs, found it to be a perfect fit for their commuting needs. They praised its balance of softness and firmness, waterproof covering, and attractive appearance.
Lastly, one user described the saddle as akin to “riding a bike on a couch.” While they mentioned that the cooling feature wasn’t very noticeable, they still recommended it for overall butt health, despite its slightly heavier weight.
Pros:
- High-quality, durable materials
- Comfortable with a well-designed cutout
- Attractive appearance and good waterproofing
Cons:
- Some riders may experience discomfort on long rides
- Slightly heavier than other options
Verdict:
This saddle is a solid choice for those seeking comfort and quality, particularly for commuting and longer rides. Its unique features and overall design make it a valuable addition to any bike.
#4. Planet Bike Anatomic Relief System Classic Bike Seat- Men
After trying two other saddles, the Planet Bike ARS became a game changer for this 6’1″, 190-pound rider. Initially used on a harsh factory saddle, the ARS provided a significant improvement for both on- and off-road rides, especially while cruising with his young child.
Comfort and Performance:
- The saddle is lightweight, making it suitable for hilly terrains without adding unnecessary weight.
- It strikes a good balance between firmness and softness, providing adequate support without causing discomfort.
- While it may not completely alleviate all male anatomy issues, it prevents critical discomfort during rides.
Durability:
- After nearly a year of use on various terrains, the saddle remains in excellent condition, although the logo has worn off.
- It’s noted that while the cover appears a bit suspect, the overall performance has not diminished.
Considerations:
- This saddle is not designed to be soft and cushy; those looking for a plush experience may want to opt for a more traditional comfort saddle.
- Ideal for riders who alternate between sitting and pedaling rather than those who remain seated for extended periods.
Verdict:
Overall, the Planet Bike ARS saddle is highly recommended for riders seeking a comfortable yet lightweight option for varied riding styles. It has proven durability, and even if it doesn’t provide the ultimate plush comfort, it supports a versatile riding experience effectively. If it were to wear out, the rider would not hesitate to purchase another.
#5. Planet Bike A.R.S. Standard Bike seat – Men’s, Black/Silver
I’m a male in my mid-30s who has dealt with prostate discomfort while biking. I switched from a plush Avenir saddle, which was too wide and mushy, to the Planet Bike ARS Standard 5020, and it’s been fantastic!
Design: Sleek and attractive, motivating me to ride more often.
1-Year Update: After many miles on a road bike, the saddle remains comfortable. A slight tilt of the nose helps with weight distribution.
Comfort: No pressure on my perineum, firm yet supportive for long rides.
#6. Ergon Men’s Sm Pro Bicycle Saddle
Saddle Review Summary
Experienced riders appreciate this saddle for its blend of comfort, quality, and performance. Here’s a quick overview:
- Longtime cyclist favorite – One reviewer, with over 70 years of cycling experience, praised the saddle for its strange but excellent comfort and efficiency. They loved it so much that they bought two extra for future use, highlighting its fit across various bike models like LightSpeed titanium, Specialized Levo SL, and Gary Fisher Mt Tam.
- Pricey but worth it – Another user felt the saddle was a bit expensive but acknowledged its superior quality and comfort for a few hours or even long all-day rides without causing severe discomfort.
- MTB Upgrade – This user replaced their WTB seat with this one and found it improved numbness reduction but lacked significant cushion improvement. While happy with the upgrade, they felt the price should be lower, around $80–$90.
- Great for long rides – One rider enjoyed a pain-free, numbness-free 60 km MTB ride with heavy elevation gain. They were concerned about choosing the right size but still found it a great improvement for their MTB.
Pros:
- Comfortable and efficient for long rides
- High-quality materials
- Reduces numbness
Cons:
- Expensive compared to similar models
- Size selection can be tricky
Verdict:
A solid saddle option for serious cyclists who prioritize comfort and performance, though some may find it pricey for the value.
#7. SMP Selle TRK Medium, Sella per Bicicletta, Nero, 280 x 160 mm
The Selle SMP saddle has been a game-changer for many cyclists, especially for those struggling with pain on long rides. One user with over 30 years of MTB experience praised its comfort after 25 miles, calling it a better option than the WTB Koda and appreciating the easy-to-clean surface.
Another rider, previously suffering from saddle sores and sit bone pain, found relief with this saddle after trying numerous high-end brands. They also made small adjustments, like tilting the saddle slightly, which improved their comfort even further.
A third rider noted that the saddle eliminated crotch numbness during long rides but warned about the tip’s dip, which caused thigh chafing. The issue was resolved by wearing longer shorts, and they’re otherwise happy with the product’s firm support and quality construction.
Pros:
- Eliminates saddle pain and discomfort
- Easy-to-clean surface
- Firm, supportive design
Cons:
- Can cause thigh chafing if not wearing longer shorts
Verdict:
The Selle SMP saddle offers excellent support and comfort for long rides, with users reporting significant pain relief. Just be cautious of its unique shape if you have thicker thighs.