Basic Modifications For A More Comfortable Ride

Though you purchased the bike to fit you, soon you find that long rides are becoming slightly uncomfortable. Below are a few basic modifications that you can make to any bike to ease discomfort, and help you enjoy those long rides ahead.

Seat
Though many companies have made modifications to make their bikes more comfortable, for some reason many seats still seem to be lacking. Changing out the seat on your bike can make you more comfortable, thus allowing you to focus more on the road and less on being uncomfortable. Check out Corbin and Mustang for some good alternative seats for your bike. You may also want to check some of these out at a store for first hand experience.

Changing the height of your seat will also help in the comfort of your ride. Riding with your seat is too high or too short can be a safety hazard. If you’re not confident in making these changes you can simply take your bike to a shop to have them adjust the seat height for you.

Handlebars
The handlebars contribute greatly to the riding position and overall comfort you will have on your bike. If you sit on your bike, close your eyes and imagine where you would like your hands to be. Obviously there may be some comprise between comfort and reality. Once you’ve determined where you’d like to be, you can raise or lower the handlebars, and even adjust the angle at which they sit. By doing so you will find your riding position will change, making you overall more comfortable.

You may also want to play around with changing the handlebars. You can find ones that are wider and narrower. Deciding how you want to ride will guide these purchases. You may also want to check out different grips. There are grips and lever covers to reduce vibrations, ones that are moisture resistant, and even ones that are heated.

Gauges
A final basic modification is the gauges. While they may not bother you as much as the seat or handlebar height, gauges are an important comfort and safety modification. You want to make sure that all controls are easy to reach and gauges are easy to see. Gauges can be backlight, illuminated, colored and more! Easy access to any necessary gauges and controls is a must for your safety. And with safety and ease of access comes comfort!

It’s important to remember that bikes rarely come perfectly fit to each individual person. Making a few small changes to your bike will help to improve comfort and overall handling of the bike.

-Julie