large bike seat
Bontrager makes a nice over-sized seat and you can find these at most specialty bike shops. They are gel seats and come with a leather or neoprene cover. The nice thing about purchasing at the bike shop is they will likely install the seat for free. Doing it on your own can be a bit frustrating. Now these seats will set you back anywhere from $35-$60, but I can tell you they are worth every penny....your behind will thank-you too.
If the Bontrager is a bit pricey for you, you can find over-sized seats at Wal-Mart. I've seen two different brands, Bell and Schwinn. You'll have to install the seat yourself and once again can be a bit frustrating depending on the seat post and clamps you have currently.
If it were me...Bontrager hands-down.
It's good you're looking for a new saddle - those tiny seats can be so uncomfortable, taking all the enjoyment out of your ride in just a short period of time. If it hurts, you're not going to stick with it.
Best Wishes!
Cards Fan
"STEP OFF THE SIDELINES AND GET IN THE GAME!"
The problem with getting those larger "softer" bike seats, and is not something many people take into account when purchasing them, is that they tend to put more pressure on the nerves running through the sciatic - which causes numbness in the legs and feet.
In all honesty; the smaller, harder bike seat will be much more comfortable in the long run as it most likely will not induce the numbness. The key is getting both the seat position and your position on the bike dialed in correctly (something a LBS can help with). Along with that, building up the butt toughness to withstand sitting on the seat for long periods of time. Something that needs to happen regardless of which seat route you go.
- Kelly
And I couldn't agree with you more now that I'm at 175 pounds and have a BMI below 25....but let me tell you, when the tushie is still larger, the little seats cause so much discomfort and do so little to support the entire body, it's darn near impossible to ride. We want to encourage riding, not discourage it.
I switched my seat out long ago - but the over-sized seat is what made it possible for me to ride when I otherwise could not have. There are times when it is appropriate and times when there are better options.
Some of the big box stores (Walmart, Target, Sports Authority, Dicks Sporting Goods) will carry replacement seats. Also try some of their on line stores. There are also many bike stores across the country in the larger metro areas. I am not sure if you are in the country or a metro area.
Christine
Open RNY May 7
260/155/140