Men's Planet Bike ARS Seat: Competition or Standard?

  • Thread starter Thread starter jaws747
  • Start date Start date
J

jaws747

Guest
I'm trying to find a replacement seat for for my road bike which I plan to use on use on century rides. Did one century last year on the stock saddle that wasn't too kind on my backside.

I've narrowed down to two choices in Planet Bike's Mens A.R.S. anatomical seats. The problem is, I can't seem to tell the differences. Any help would be appreciated!
http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-5020-Standard-Anatomic/dp/B0015R1VVY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1230320052&sr=1-1
http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Bike-5022-Competition-Anatomic/dp/B0015RA1TW/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1230320052&sr=1-5
 
Typically, the differences comparing a racing saddle, versus a regular saddle, is the racing are a bit narrower in the thigh area so there's lower chance of friction in that area. Think of it as if it fits someone with really big thighs. Also, the area where the sit bones are, the racing is shaped for a position less upright than the standard. They're also thinner on the padding and lighter too, appeasing to the gram counters.

But, since everyone's buttocks is different, definitely try both and see what fits better. Thinner padding doesn't mean less comfortable, as I have two bikes and the one with the thinner padding fits me better. Too thick padding, as in some comfort bikes, are actually not good for long rides since your sit bones sinks into the saddles and restrict some blood flow.

If I have the choice of these two, I would probably pick the competition fit, since it looks like its more for road bikes; the other one seemed more for hybrid/mountain bikes. But, again, I would much prefer to test them out first before I buy.
 
Back
Top