What seat is right for me? Should it Hurt?

[MagnumVP]

When I ride long distances (typically 15+ miles) my butt begins to hurt? Does this indicate a riding style issue or a seat issue? Is it normally for it to hurt some? I have a Specialized seat http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCEqProduct.jsp?spid=34353 and the matching shorts http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCEqProduct.jsp?spid=31339.

Any ideas? Should I keep trying different seats until it doesn't hurt at all? Any recommendations or first hand experience is greatly appreciated.

 

[Scotty_Dog]

Does this indicate a riding style issue or a seat issue?
Could be either, both, or a bicycle fitting issue.

Is it normally for it to hurt some?
For a beginner cyclist, some pain is normal as your body adjusts.

I have a Specialized seat http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCEqProduct.jsp?spid=34353 and the matching shorts http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCEqProduct.jsp?spid=31339.
I see the saddle comes in 3 widths. How did you determine which width to buy? Did you buy the saddle from a LBS and/or use Specialized's "Assometer" to determine your actual sit bone width?

Any ideas?
1) Verify you are fitted correctly for your bicycle.
2) Verify the saddle is level, or just slightly nose down.
3) Verify the saddle width is right for your sit bone width.
4) Switch saddles.


Should I keep trying different seats until it doesn't hurt at all?
I'd would after 1-3 above. Add a few weeks to that if you're a beginner.

Any recommendations or first hand experience is greatly appreciated.
Saddle preferences are as varied as tire choices. There is a "best" saddle for everyone, but it's not the same saddle for everyone. If you keep experiencing pain, go to your LBS and let them help you pick a new saddle.

 

[MagnumVP]

Thank you for the information.

To answer some of your questions, I'm not sure which width they gave me. They didn't measure me for anything they just pointed me to this one. I wasn't aware at the time there were different width for that particular model.

I'll take it down to the shop where I bought it and see if they can help me verify that it is the right seat for me.