Panel Shorts For Long Distances

[c_elder]

This is not strictly about electric bikes but is related to long distance cycling.

At last I have Marathon Pluses on my Pro-Connect and my commuting situation has changed so that I can look forward to (roughly) 30 mile round trip everyday.

I did a trial run last Sunday (on the original Continental tyres). On a side note, I switched between high and low power depending on the gradient and I still had 2 lights (out of 5) at the end. Anyways, my derriere was complaining a bit afterwards so I wonder if anyone has recommendations on padded shorts?

On EBay today (31-Jul-2008) there are 6, 8 and 10 panel shorts (what is a panel?). Brands include BBB, Lusso, OuterEdge, Polaris, Milano and Tenn. Prices range from £10-18. This compares to £25-40 in shops.

Any technical advice or personal recommendations on padded shorts gratefully received.

 

[stokepa31_mk2]

I use padded shorts but not sure how many panels they have or whether its that important. Getting the right size pad to fit your anatomy is key. when going out on training runs I use padded underwear too. Always make sure you come off the saddle once in a while as this ensures blood flow through the perineum is maintained. If you get numb nuts your in trouble! Never wear shorts that are not clean on as bacteria can lead to the breakdown of skin and saddle sores. Most pro / club riders use a lanolin based anti bac cream on the insert and the body to help with this.

 

[robert44]

Paul,
any recommendations of makes or suppliers of padded shorts/underwear?
I find that after an hour I need a break because of a stiff posterior.
My saddle is soft and has a sprung post, so maybe some additional padding could give some relief!

 

[stokepa31_mk2]

Hi Robert

I have some crane shorts from Aldi whick are ok but by far the best fit i've found is a pair of nike team discovery shorts. it will be different depending on your build. ive found the most important thing is making sure the pad is in the right place. if your shorts are not snug fitting they will cause you problems. I tend to do about 1hr 30 without major probs

 

[WALKERMAN]

Saddle soreness

Paul,
any recommendations of makes or suppliers of padded shorts/underwear?
I find that after an hour I need a break because of a stiff posterior.
My saddle is soft and has a sprung post, so maybe some additional padding could give some relief!

I had severe saddle soreness / pain and searched the internet for a solution including padded shorts. I bought a 'Comfort Saddle' instead which has solved the problem. It is initially like sitting on a moving bar stool but I got used to it after a couple of days. It cost about £40. I have now fitted it to my two week old Pro Connect and the cycling experience is now a joy not a pain.

 

[robert44]

Thanks for the advice gents. I think I'll try out the cheaper option, ie padded shorts, first.
I'd never heard of the "comfort saddle ". Looks interesting though.
Weather permitting, I was planning on a 40mile round trip this month, so I need to get something to soften the ride!

 

[stevew]

Do consider a Brooks B66 or B67. Very comfy for me and "real" leather.