Vintage bike doesn't work with new seat?

Question

I bought a vintage bike at a yard sale recently. The seat was pretty uncomfortable so I bought a new "retro style" one. When I went to put it on though, the new seat didn't fit the bike's seat post. The seat post was too small in diameter. I don't know if a larger seat post will fit my frame. Any ideas on how to make them fit? I'd like to keep the new seat if I can.

Answer 1

It would really help if we knew the brand and model of your bike.

Assuming that both saddles are held to the seat post by clamps mounted under the saddle, simply change the clamps. It is a bit frustrating if you never did it before but it is possible...

There are 5 pieces to the clamp- the clamp (c shape), 2 "t" shaped pieces, 2 "u" shaped pieces, and the bolt.

Place a "t" against the clamp with the knurled sides facing each other. Slide this assembly between the seat rails with the "t" nestled on the rail. Take the other "t" and, while tilting the other assembly up to make room, insert it on the other side of the clamp, again with the knurled sides mating. Push the whole works between the rails. Place the "u" pieces on either side of the rails and place the bolt through. Install on seat post and tighten.

Simple operation... lots of words to explain!

Answer 2

Ok, your description is confusing but here is the general deal. There is the bike -- can't change that. There is the seat post and there is the seat and both are interchangeable. So you can put any seat on any bike, as long as you find a seat post that fits. Get one - about $20 - with some suspension if you can. Much more comfy. Usually, the size on the post is written on it, so you can find another one with the same diameter.

EDIT: Now wait a minute -- if you have the old seat post, use that one. If that's impossible (I can't see why not, though), get a new one.

Answer 3

The easiest thing to do is what mirage... stated. Simply change the old clamp to the new saddle. Look at it closely before you disassemble to see how to put it together again.