Triathlon Split Nose Saddle on my Racing Bicycle?

While riding a bike, there are only three points where you make direct contact: your hands, your seat, and your feet. These contact points influence the comfort and efficiency of your ride.

Photo of a Triathlon Saddle or Split Nose Saddle on my Road Bike

Riding Position on a Race Bike

When examining the evolution of riding positions over time, it becomes apparent that earlier cyclists, including those in races such as the Tour de France, used larger bikes and maintained a more upright posture. In contrast, modern cyclists position themselves more 'in' their bikes rather than 'on' them, adopting a lower profile to enhance aerodynamic efficiency.

These changes in riding style have been enabled by advancements in materials, moving from traditional metals to carbon fiber. Initially widely used in the aerospace sector, carbon fiber became more common in the bicycle industry during the 1990s. This versatile, synthetic 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 different directions and molded into complex shapes to meet specific requirements. Time trial and triathlon bikes demonstrate the extraordinary potential 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 integrated into race bikes, and aero bikes were previously unheard of.

Former World Champion Tony Martin

Compromise between Efficiency and Comfort

Approaching my 60s, I'm no longer a young racer. However, age shouldn't stop anyone from prioritizing comfort and efficiency in cycling. When German time trialist Tony Martin moved from Team Omega Pharma-Quick Step to Katusha-Alpecin, he lost his competitive advantage because the new bike didn't "fit as well", as he stated in an interview. Although it was efficient, it didn't provide enough comfort over the distance of a time trial, costing him precious seconds. Bicycle designers and riders should take both factors into account.

Selecting the Right Saddle

I transferred a hard and narrow race saddle from my mountain bike to my road bike without much consideration. However, in the more forward-leaning position of the road bike, I felt numbness in the lower contact area of my body. This discomfort was especially noticeable and bothersome on rides longer than three hours.

Two years back, I got ready for an upcoming triathlon event by training alongside an American and an Australian. Before our combined cycling and running sessions, I examined their bikes. I observed that both had American-branded triathlon saddles featuring a 'split nose' design. We talked about their saddles, and they praised them highly.

When I returned home, I thought, 'Why not try them on my current road bike?' I found an affordable Chinese replica online and purchased it. After installing it, my narrow pelvis and consequently narrow butt felt much more comfortable, especially on longer rides. My sit bones felt more 'cradled' than 'contacted,' riding more 'on' rather than 'in' the saddle. The extra padding could be the key to comfort for my 'end.' I believe that comfort leads to confidence, and confidence leads to speed and endurance.

Saddle U-Shape

I look at the U-shaped saddle with an oversized cut-out and the nose cut off. When I sit on the dual-nose, my male parts and the tissues do not touch the saddle, but the sit bones do. Together with the thicker and softer padding, the saddle feels very comfy right from the start.

Saddle Profile

The other 'secret' of my triathlon saddle is a subtle yet significant rise or step in the saddle profile, which is clearly visible from the side. In the 'race position', I sit on the split nose, leaning forward like a time trialist, with more weight over the handlebar. When I need extra power to 'push' the pedals, I adjust my position by moving my body back. This results in a slightly higher position on the saddle. While riding uphill or climbing, I have the same options; I can opt for the forward position to push the pedals downward or the higher position to push the pedals forward.

Saddle Adjustment

The saddle has to be adjusted to the needs and preferences of the riders. When customizing your 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. For example, when the saddle is moved forward, you should consider changing the position of the stem. A slammed stem would bring the handlebar down and give the rider a more aerodynamic position.

a. Saddle Height

My new split-nose saddle features a thicker padding, making it higher than my previous road race saddle. Consequently, you should consider the saddle height or the distance between your seat and the pedals.

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 prefer to tilt the saddle downward ('nose down'), but if the angle is too steep, it offers minimal support. I attempted to lower the nose, but ended up sliding down due to lack of grip from the cover. When I got home, I restored 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 positions on the saddle. The overall shorter saddle has longer rails and I can adjust the saddle for my most efficient position for every section of the road. Behind the saddle, there is ample space for a saddlebag (with spares and tools) and a frame for two additional water bottles - 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 and the bike. Experimenting with various saddle shapes, materials, and positions is not only intriguing but a valuable investment of time and money for more comfortable ride. 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

#Saddle #SplitNoseSaddle #TonyMartin #BikePosition

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!