Comfort At Last

18/09/2011

New bike seats and middle aged bodies are not a good match.  After my first ride, it was time to do something about rider comfort so I can spend a few hours in the saddle and still be able to walk.

I’ve looked at all options, from seat covers to seat rebuilds and have settled on the following:

·         Sheep skin covers for rider and pillion seats for everyday use

·         AirHawk for longer rides

After reviewing the different seat cover option, I chose Black sheep skin covers for rider and pillion seats from Good Wool Store ( www.goodwool.com.au ). The covers are very comfortable, well priced, fit perfectly and look great.  I fitted the covers in about 5 minutes and took the bike out for a short test ride.  The seat was definitely more comfortable, but I didn’t feel I’d be able to spend hour after hours in the saddle with just the sheep skin.

Next stop was to check out the various options for softening up the seat.  I read dozens of reviews about the pros and cons of seat rebuilds, gel inserts, airbags and replacement seats.

After much consternation, I decided I’d bite the bullet and invest in an AirHawk from AirHawk Comfort Seating Systems ( www.airhawk.com.au ).  Fitting and adjusting the AirHawk took less than 10 minutes and the difference it makes is amazing.   No more hip pain, no numb bum, nothing.

Best of all, Tom from AirHawk, is a long distance rider based in Whyalla, SA. When I let him know I might be heading his way in October, he kindly offered to meet up and show me around his neck of the woods.

I’m looking forward to catching up with Tom and checking out some of his favourite places…