Triathlon Split Nose Saddle on my Racing Bicycle?
- Gerhard Wanninger
- Sep 6, 2019
- 5 min read
Updated: May 23
When riding a bike, only three points connect you directly to it: your hands, your seat, and your feet. These points determine the comfort and efficiency of your ride.
Riding Position on a Race Bike
When comparing the general riding position throughout history, one will notice that earlier cyclists, even in races like the Tour de France, rode larger bikes in a more upright position. In contrast, today's riders sit more 'in' their bikes than 'on' them, adopting a low profile to cut through the air efficiently.
These shifts in riding style have been made possible by advancements in materials, transitioning from traditional metals to carbon fiber. Initially used extensively in the aerospace industry, carbon fiber became more prevalent in the bicycle industry during the 1990s. This versatile, man-made material offers high stiffness, high tensile strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high-temperature tolerance, and minimal thermal expansion. Woven carbon sheets are layered in various directions and molded into complex shapes to meet intricate requirements. Time trial and triathlon bikes exemplify the remarkable possibilities of carbon fiber in today's bike industry, featuring designs that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Elements from these specialized bikes have been incorporated into race bikes, and aero bikes were previously unheard of.
Compromise between Efficiency and Comfort
As I near my 60s, I'm no longer a young racer. However, age shouldn't prevent anyone from focusing on comfort and efficiency while cycling. When German time trialist Tony Martin transitioned from Team Omega Pharma-Quick Step to Katusha-Alpecin, he lost his edge because the new bike did not "fit as well." Though it was efficient, it lacked sufficient comfort over the time trial distance, costing him valuable seconds. Bicycle designers should consider both aspects.
Right Saddle
I had a hard and narrow race saddle on my mountain bike and moved it without hesitation to my road bike. However, in a more forward-leaning position, I experienced numbness in the lower contact area of my body. This discomfort was particularly noticeable on rides longer than three hours.
Two years ago, I trained alongside an American and an Australian in preparation for an upcoming triathlon. Prior to our joint cycling and running sessions, I examined their bikes and observed that both of them used an American brand of triathlon saddles featuring a 'split nose' design. We talked about their saddles, and they were full of praise for them.
Once I was back home, I considered, 'Why not test them on my current road bike?' I discovered an affordable (Chinese) replica online and bought it. After installing it, my narrow pelvis and consequently narrow butt felt significantly more comfortable, as confirmed on longer rides. My sit bones felt more 'cradled' than 'contacted,' riding more 'on' rather than 'in' the saddle. The additional padding might be the key to the comfort for my 'end.' I believe that comfort leads to confidence, and confidence leads to speed.
Saddle Profile
The other 'secret' of my triathlon saddle is a subtle yet significant rise or step in the saddle profile, visible from the side. In the 'race position', I sit on the split nose, leaning forward like a time trialist, leaning more over the handlebar. When I need more power to 'push' the pedals, I shift my position slightly backward. This results in a slightly elevated position on the saddle. During climbs, I have the same options; I can choose between the forward position for pushing the pedals downward or the more backward position for pushing the pedals forward.
Saddle Adjustment
A saddle is a seat that still has to be adjusted to the needs and preferences of the riders. When adjusting a saddle, it must be done with the hands (handlebar/stem), the butt (saddle), and the legs (pedals) in mind. I see the riding position as a triangle; when changing one parameter, it should be considered to adjust at least another part to 'compensate' for the change. When e. g. the saddle is moved forward, you should consider to change the stem. A lower stem would bring the handlebar down and the rider a more aerodynamic position.
a. Saddle Height
My new split nose saddle has a more generous padding, is therefore built a higher than the former road race saddle. Therefore the overall saddle height (distance butt→pedal) should be adjusted.
b. ←Fore & Aft→
The saddle can be moved forwards (fore) and backwards (aft) on the seat post. To remember or detail these adjustments, some manufacturers have printed gauges in mm on the rails.
c. Saddle Tilt (Angle)
Some riders like to position the saddle with a downward angle ('nose down'); however, if it's too steep, the saddle provides little support. I attempted to lower the nose, but found myself sliding downwards without any grip from the saddle. Once back home, I returned the saddle to its original position.
.
Experience
Switching from my former narrow road bike saddle to the wider split nose triathlon saddle offered me a much more comfortable and pleasant riding experience. I can choose between several seating positions, have the freedom to move on the saddle (forwards and backward), and can find the most comfortable and efficient position for every section of the road.
While the overall shorter saddle has longer rails than my previous saddle. On my rails, I mount a saddlebag and a bottle cage frame for two additional water bottles. On this split nose saddle, there is enough space for both - much appreciated on longer and unsupported rides.
For the added comfort and versatility, I am more than willing to take the weight penalty of around 60 grams compared to my previous narrow racing saddle.
Conclusion
I encourage everyone to pay more attention to the crucial body parts that connect you to your saddle. Experimenting with various saddle shapes, materials, and positions is not only intriguing but also a valuable investment of time and money in a bike fit. Many bike shops provide test saddles that you can try for an extended period, and perhaps a friend might be willing to lend you their bike or saddle for a short ride around the block.
Take care, Gerhard
A Word of Caution
Always wear protective gear, such as a helmet and gloves, and ensure you are in control of the bike, not the other way around. Ride responsibly, defensively, and safely! It is not worth gaining a few seconds if it means spending weeks recovering in a hospital or at home. Your body, parents, family, and friends will definitely appreciate your precautions during a bike ride.
I own this saddle, installed it myself, and personally use it. I purchased the saddle; I am not endorsed or sponsored. Subscribers or followers are more than welcome!
Comments