How do I buy a bike that that won't hurt my neck when I ride it?

Question

My last bike was a Specialized Hardrock mountain bike. It was a pretty good beginner bike but whenever I would ride for more than 20 minutes my neck would start to hurt from looking up. Not to mention that the seat left my butt in a huge deal of pain. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

First is you need to get your body used to riding. It isn't going to be comfortable as you would wish for the first while. Second, get a bike that sits a little more upright and maybe a shorter stem - you may be too stretched out over the bike. Then learn how to adjust the seat to put the pressure in the right places - it's worth the money to get a good saddle though...not a big cushy one, you lose a lot of control and function with those, but a good traditional saddle. Adjust it correctly, then ride a bunch. You will get bruising the first few times then you're body will adapt and you'll never notice it again.

Answer 2

go to good bike shop and they will fit you for a bike the bike riding is not the right size.

Answer 3

Mountain bikes have a forward riding position to them. I would raise the handle bars up and back with a stem riser or riser handlebars. For your next bike I would look at a comfort/path bike that's what I ended up going to.  You may need to adj the seat, if it is too far back or tilted to far forward it will cause you to put more pressure on you arms and shoulders.  Check this site out.

http://sheldonbrown.com/pain.html

Answer 4

Does the bike fit you? You should be able to ride for more than 20 minutes at a time without pain if the bike fits. Have that checked out first before buying a new bike.

Technique can help you with the neck issue. Keep your head lower with your neck straighter. Look up with your eyes, not your head. That's the reason so many cycling glasses are huge at the top.

You can buy a new saddle and put it on your existing bike. There are lots to choose from. Your local bike shop is the place to start.

HTH

Answer 5

What you need is a recumbent bike, one that your riding posture does not strain your body.  try this site:

http://www.recumbent.com/recumbents.html

click on the different Brands, then see who is represented in your area.

I had your problem several years ago.  NOt any more.

I ride bents and semi bents.