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How to Pick a Bicycle Seat

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Mountain, BMX or freestyle bikes all have dozens of different seats you can use with them. There are long, skinny banana seats, wide and long seats, short and wide seats, different colors, thicknesses and comfort levels. Choosing the right seat for you and your bike can be an overwhelming experience. Below are a few guidelines to help you pick the perfect seat and get you out there riding.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Know what kind of bike you have. If you don't know, the best bet is to bring the bike with you to the bicycle store. Consider the bike's color, style, length and height when looking at seats.

  2. Step 2

    Choose the hardness level of a bicycle seat. This is very important--if the seat causes too much discomfort or is pressed against your pressure points or sensitive areas for too long, it can cause problems such as boils. Make sure it is the right thickness for your particular needs. If you like a little extra support, go with a harder seat, such as plastic. If you just want your bike ride to be comfortable, pick a softer seat made out of foam. For a stylish look, there are also seats made out of sheepskins and other furs.

  3. Step 3

    Examine the rod of the bike seat. Where your seat is positioned is important. The position of the seat can make you more or less stable, comfortable and even increase or limit your control of the bicycle depending on how far up or down it is. Examine the length of the adjusting rod and make sure it fits your personal preferences.

  4. Step 4

    Install the seat onto your bike to try it out. This will truly determine how your bike will perform with a specific seat. If you bring your bicycle into the shop, most store owners will allow you to test out different bike seats before buying one. Install the seat by slipping the adjusting rod into the hole for the seat on your bike and by screwing it in. Adjust the height of the seat and make sure it is stable and nothing is going to come loose. Check your bike seat for comfort, support and ease of use. Make sure the rod in the seat doesn't poke you too hard and that you can ride the bike seat comfortably.

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