Saddle-Sore Cyclists: Try a Laid-Back Solution

“Uneasy Riders” (Feb. 8) contained important information on a major health hazard associated with bicycling. However, the prescription of an improved saddle for the conventional bicycle design, while cost-effective for many, may not be the best solution for all.

The best and safest solution, for those who are willing and able to purchase an improved bicycle, is the recumbent bicycle. There are many variations of the recumbent design on the market, but they all feature a comfortable lawn-chair type seat that puts no pressure on the crotch region of the anatomy. No variation of the standard bicycle saddle can make this claim, because the riding position of the standard (wedgie) bike requires straddling some form of crotch wedge.

Also, recumbent bicycles utilize a feet-forward riding position almost identical to the driving position in a car, with a seat almost as close to the ground as in a modern automobile. In an accident, the recumbent rider will not fly head-first over the handlebars. This is a common cause of serious injury and even death with conventional bicycles. If the recumbent rider does fall, it will be to the side, and the height of the fall before impact with the ground is considerably reduced.

The recumbent bicycle is much kinder to the back, shoulders, neck and wrists than a conventional bicycle. No neck craning is necessary to see everything around the rider, especially when using a rearview mirror. The arms are relaxed, eliminating any risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.

--GERALD E. PEASE

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Three years ago I was averaging 15 to 20 miles on a wedgie when I developed a sore tailbone. I was off the bike for six months before I was pain-free. I then rode 10 miles one day and hurt for two weeks. That was when I discovered the wonderful world of recumbent bicycles (those strange bikes that you recline on with the pedals in front of you). What a difference to be able to ride 15 to 20 miles in the mornings during the week and 40 to 60 miles on a Saturday and feel no pain at all.

I have noticed that when I ride with others and it comes time for a break, the first thing that the wedgie riders do is hop off of their bike. I look for a tree that I can lean the bike on while I stretch out in the seat.

Once you try a recumbent bike for an extended period of time, you will never go back.

--BILL LOITZ

Altadena