3D saddles - before you buy , watch this

Summary

The video discusses the benefits and challenges of 3D printed bicycle saddles, highlighting the hype in the cycling industry. It covers the importance of saddle shape, shell width, curvature, and perineum cutouts in achieving comfort. The host tests a budget-friendly 3D printed saddle from AliExpress, comparing it to more expensive brands, and finds it performs well over long rides. Key takeaways include matching saddle shape to personal preferences and ensuring precise bike measurements for comfort. The video concludes that higher cost doesn't necessarily mean better comfort, with budget options also providing excellent performance.

Takeaways

• 🛍️ The cycling industry is promoting 3D printed saddles as a solution to cycling discomfort, available on various online platforms like AliExpress, Amazon, and eBay.
• 🔍 To find a suitable saddle, one should try it in the same position as the old one and go for a long ride to test comfort.
• 💰 Branded saddle manufacturers invest in R&D, resulting in higher prices, but there are cheaper alternatives available that offer similar benefits.
• 🔑 The key to a comfortable saddle is the shape of the shell underneath the padding, which dictates comfort more than the 3D printed top layer.
• 👍 The narrator found a 3D printed saddle from AliExpress under the Riot brand, which was inexpensive and had positive reviews.
• 🌡️ 3D printed saddles have perforated surfaces, which can increase airflow and reduce chafing but may also collect dirt and water.
• 📏 The width of the saddle, from the widest part to the other side, is crucial for ensuring a proper fit.
• 📏 The curvature of the saddle, whether flat or round, affects comfort and personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right shape.
• 🕳️ The size of the perineum cutout or channel can affect comfort, with larger cutouts leaving less surface area to sit on.
• 🦵 The width of the saddle's nose can prevent thigh chafing for those with wider thighs, and personal experience can dictate preference.
• 🛠️ The flexibility of the saddle's shell material, whether plastic, glass fiber, or carbon fiber, can impact comfort, especially on rough terrain.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video script?

The main topic discussed in the video script is the use and evaluation of 3D printed bicycle saddles, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for cycling comfort.

Where can 3D printed saddles be purchased according to the script?

3D printed saddles can be purchased from various online platforms such as AliExpress, Amazon, eBay, and other online bicycle parts sellers.

What is the importance of trying out a saddle before committing to buy?

Trying out a saddle before buying is crucial to ensure it provides comfort during long rides. It helps to avoid spending money on multiple saddles that may not be suitable.

What are some of the brand names mentioned in the script that manufacture 3D printed saddles?

The brand names mentioned in the script that manufacture 3D printed saddles include Specialize, Physique, Sellia, and a few others.

Why do brand name 3D printed saddles tend to be more expensive?

Brand name 3D printed saddles tend to be more expensive because they invest significantly in research and development, which contributes to their higher price.

What is the brand and where was the saddle reviewed in the script purchased from?

The saddle reviewed in the script was purchased from AliExpress and is from the brand Riot R, ye T.

What is one of the advantages of a 3D printed saddle's perforated surface?

One advantage of a 3D printed saddle's perforated surface is increased airflow, which can lead to a drier and less chafed area for the cyclist.

What is the importance of the saddle's shell in determining comfort?

The saddle's shell is crucial in determining comfort as it provides the foundation and shape of the saddle. If the shell's shape is not suitable for the individual, the saddle will not be comfortable regardless of other factors.

What are some factors to consider when choosing the width of a saddle?

Factors to consider when choosing the width of a saddle include personal comfort, the most common size which is 143mm, and the availability of wider or narrower options to suit individual needs.

What does the script suggest about the relationship between price and comfort in saddles?

The script suggests that there is no direct correlation between price and comfort in saddles. A more expensive saddle does not necessarily guarantee comfort, and cheaper alternatives can also provide a good fit and comfort.

What is the significance of the saddle's flexibility in terms of riding experience?

The flexibility of a saddle is significant as it can affect the riding experience, especially on rough terrain. A softer saddle can act like suspension, absorbing more vibrations and reducing harshness and fatigue on the cyclist's backside.

Why is it important to ensure the saddle's shell does not stick out further than the cushioning?

It is important to ensure the saddle's shell does not stick out further than the cushioning to prevent chafing or leg irritation, as the legs or thighs could rub against the harder plastic or carbon fiber instead of the cushioning.

What is the role of the seat rails in the overall comfort and functionality of a saddle?

The seat rails play a crucial role in the overall comfort and functionality of a saddle. They need to be compatible with the seat clamp and provide enough adjustment range for the cyclist to find the optimal position. The rails also contribute to the saddle's weight and stiffness.

What is the significance of the saddle's profile height in relation to the seat post?

The saddle's profile height is significant as it affects the height at which the seat post needs to be set. A lower profile saddle may require the seat post to be raised to maintain the same riding position.

How does the script suggest measuring and transferring saddle settings from one bike to another?

The script suggests using a sit bone template or other measuring tools to record the height, length, and tilt of the saddle. These measurements can then be transferred to another bike to ensure a consistent and comfortable riding position.

What was the outcome of the test rides with the 3D printed saddle from Riot R, ye T?

The test rides with the 3D printed saddle from Riot R, ye T were positive. The cyclist found the saddle comfortable even after long rides and did not experience any discomfort or chafing, leading to the decision to keep it as a permanent saddle on the bike.