Getting your bike properly fitted to your body size and type is one of the most overlooked aspects of mountain biking—especially for new riders. Many cyclists ride with stock setups that may not suit their unique body geometry, leading to discomfort, potential injuries, and a less enjoyable experience.
Nothing cuts a ride short faster than numb hands, an aching back, or a sore bottom. The good news? Many of these issues can be resolved by making a few adjustments to your bike’s contact points—the parts of the bike where your body makes direct contact.
What Are Contact Points?
Contact points are the areas of your bike that you touch directly:
- Handlebars – Affect control, stability, and hand comfort
- Saddle – Impacts your seated comfort and pedaling efficiency
- Pedals – Play a role in foot support and power transfer
Making small changes to these components can significantly improve your comfort and overall riding experience. Here are the five best ways to make your bike more comfortable:
1. Adjust Your Handlebars for a Better Fit
Tingling, numb hands can make a ride miserable, but a well-fitted handlebar setup can solve many of these problems.
What to Consider:
Handlebar Width: Wide bars offer better control and shock absorption, but if they’re too wide for your body size, they can make steering difficult. Cut them down if needed.
- Rise and Angle: Higher-rise bars can create a more upright position, reducing strain on your back and wrists.
- Stem Length: A shorter stem brings your handlebars closer, making steering more responsive, while a longer stem can stretch your riding position for more stability.
- Material Choice: Carbon fiber handlebars absorb vibrations better than aluminum, reducing fatigue. If you suffer from wrist pain or numbness, this upgrade is worth considering.
Pro Tip: Carbon fiber bars from OneUp Components offer excellent vibration damping and control.
2. Upgrade Your Grips for Better Control
Your grips play a crucial role in hand comfort and fatigue. Choosing the right grips can reduce vibration, improve handling, and prevent blisters.
Grip Material Options:
✔ Foam Grips – Soft and shock-absorbing but wear out faster.
✔ Silicone Grips – Tacky and comfortable, even in wet conditions, but prone to tearing.
✔ Rubber Grips – The most durable but may feel slippery in wet conditions.
If you have hand pain or need extra cushioning, Wolf Tooth Fat Paw or ESI Chunky grips provide extra thickness for better shock absorption.
3. Find the Right Saddle for Your Body
A poorly fitting saddle can cause discomfort, chafing, and even long-term injuries. To find the perfect saddle, consider:
- Riding Style: Trail riders need a moderate-length saddle, while XC riders benefit from a longer saddle for better support.
- Sit Bone Width: Your saddle should match the width of your sit bones. Get measured at a bike shop or use a home method to find the right size.
- Saddle Shape: Some saddles have ergonomic cutouts to relieve pressure and prevent numbness. Women-specific saddles often have wider designs to support pelvic anatomy better.
For more details on saddles and pelvic health, check out Dr. Bennett’s latest article on saddles and pelvic flooring.
4. Choose the Right Pedals for Your Riding Style
Pedals come in two main types, and choosing the right one can drastically improve comfort and control:
- Clipless Pedals – Provide better pedaling efficiency but can cause foot numbness if not adjusted correctly.
- Flat Pedals – Allow more freedom of movement and make it easier to bail off the bike in technical terrain.
If you experience foot pain or hot spots while using clipless pedals, adjusting the cleat position can help. Otherwise, switching to flat pedals with a wide platform and grip pins may be a more comfortable option.
5. Get a Professional Bike Fit
Even experienced riders can benefit from a professional bike fit. A certified fitter can:
✔ Assess your posture and weight distribution.
✔ Adjust your saddle height and angle for optimal support.
✔ Fine-tune your handlebar position for better control.
If you’re serious about improving your comfort and performance, a professional fit is a worthwhile investment.
Small Changes Make a Big Difference
If you find yourself cutting rides short due to discomfort, making adjustments to your handlebars, grips, saddle, pedals, and overall bike fit can make a world of difference. These small changes will help you ride longer, feel better, and most importantly—have more fun on the trails!
