How to Make Your Bike More Comfortable

An uncomfortable bike isn't something you should have to get used to. Follow these simple steps to achieve the ride you deserve.

Things You'll Need

• Bike Shorts
• Bike Grips
• Bike Helmets
• Bike Seats/saddles
• Bike Shoes
• Bike Stems
• Bike Tires
• Biking Gloves

Instructions

1. Consider fit. This is the most important aspect of your comfort on the bike. Is your bike too big or too small? Is the stem too long or too short?

2. Adjust your position on the bike. Try moving the seat back on the seat post. Try raising the stem. Lower or raise the seat.

3. Consider your saddle. Is it too narrow or too wide? Is it too hard or too soft? (See "How to Buy a Bike Seat," under Related eHows.)

4. Consider your grips or your handlebar tape if you have hand pain or numbness. There are many options - foam grips, cork tape and so on. Gloves can also help.

5. Consider your tires. Wider tires will give you a smoother ride. (See "How to Buy a Bike Tire," under Related eHows.)

6. Consider your fork. On a mountain bike, a suspension fork will help ease the bumpy ride. On a road bike, a carbon fiber fork will help smooth out road vibrations.

7. Consider a suspension stem for a mountain or hybrid bike.

8. Buy bike shorts, especially if you plan to ride long distances. The extra padding prevents a great deal of soreness.

9. Consider bike shoes if your feet are getting numb or feel uncomfortable on the pedals.

Tips & Warnings

• Relax on the bike. If you're sitting too rigidly or gripping the bars too tightly, you'll feel every crack in the pavement and every bump in the trail.

• Always wear a helmet when cycling.