If you’ve ever cut a ride short because of nagging discomfort or numbness, you’re not alone. For years, cyclists were told that pain was just part of the sport-something to push through or ignore. But what if the problem wasn’t your toughness, but your saddle’s width?
For decades, the 160mm saddle was dismissed as a comfort-oriented product for casual riders. Today, it’s becoming a secret weapon for performance-oriented cyclists who value both speed and well-being. This isn’t about a trend-it’s about biomechanics finally getting the attention it deserves.
The Science Behind Saddle Width
Your sit bones-or ischial tuberosities-are meant to bear your weight when cycling. When a saddle is too narrow, it fails to support these bones, shifting pressure to soft tissue and compromising nerves and blood vessels.
Research has shown that incorrect saddle width can reduce blood flow significantly and contribute to issues like numbness, pain, and even long-term health concerns. Getting the width right isn’t just about comfort-it’s about riding healthier.
Who Really Needs a 160mm Saddle?
It’s not just about size-it’s about structure. Riders who benefit most from a 160mm saddle often include:
- Those with wider pelvic structures
- Gravel and endurance cyclists seeking stability on long, rough rides
- Anyone who’s experienced numbness or discomfort on a standard-width saddle
How to Find Your Ideal Fit
Guessing your saddle size is a recipe for discomfort. Follow these steps to get it right:
- Measure your sit bone width using a dedicated tool or a DIY method like corrugated cardboard.
- Add 20-30mm to that measurement to determine your ideal saddle width.
- Test before you commit-many shops offer demo saddles or generous return policies.
More Than Just a Number
The shift toward wider saddles like the 160mm isn’t a rejection of performance-it’s a redefinition. Comfort means efficiency, and efficiency means speed. It’s time to leave the era of “suffering for the sport” behind and embrace a smarter, more sustainable way to ride.
Your body will thank you-and your cycling will too.