Extreme seat soreness when bicycling, even with cycling shorts and gel seat cover. Help!?

Question

I am a woman bicyclist. I have padded Pearl Izumi cycling shorts AND a thick gel seatcover on my bike seat. Still, during my 15-20 mile rides, my crotch HURTS. What in the world can I do? Thanks!

Answer 1

I'd toss the bulky seat cover, and focus on adjusting the seat position, most likely the up v. down angle of the nose of the saddle.

It's likely more complicated than the fix this will give, for example evaluating different seats and a complete bike refitting, but it's where I'd start.  Also, women who have given birth will find that their "sit bones" are wider then those women who have not; this is another factor which means one sort of fix doesn't work for all.

You need to believe you will find a solution, and will not have to give up the pleasure and benefits of riding.

Best of luck!

P.S.  Please visit the Terry women's bicycling website below, for insight into possible solutions for your problem,

Answer 2

The PI shorts are quality. Good choice there. The gel might be more of a problem than a help.

Things to check 1st are saddle position. Height and angle with the ground can affect this.

Your saddle should support your sit bones. If it is hitting other areas, it will be less than pleasant.

I prefer Brooks saddles, but that's my choice.

Check this article out:

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/saddles.html

For Brooks saddles with ability to return if you don't like:

http://www.wallbike.com/

Answer 3

If you cycle regularly 15-20 miles with a good pair of shorts and a comfy saddle shouldn't be a problem unless something is wrong with the bike set up.  Try adjusting the seat angle and height.  Personally I find it more comfortable to have the seat angled slightly forward.  If the seat is too high you will find you move from side to side as you pedal which will cause a bit of friction and soreness.

Answer 4

you might have a hernia