Replace a bike saddle - How to mount a new saddle on your road, mountain or gravel bike

The saddle is a very important part of your bicycle because it contributes to how comfortably you sit on your road bike, MTB or gravel bike. A saddle that is not right for you can cause all sorts of discomfort during cycling. As a cyclist, you want to avoid this because a painful ride is anything but enjoyable. Many physical complaints are caused by the wrong saddle. If this is the case for you, you should look for a saddle that suits you best. When you have found and bought the perfect new bike saddle, all you have to do is mount it. In this blog we explain how to replace your bike saddle.

Eliminate or prevent physical discomfort

A new bike saddle can make any physical complaints, such as saddle soreness, disappear as if they were snow melting in the sun. To avoid aches and pains while cycling, you need a saddle that is right for you. Since everyone’s build is unique, every saddle is not suitable for everyone. Some prefer a wide model, others like one with a recess or a raised shape. To find out which bike seat is best for you, please refer to our Saddle Selection Guide.

Replace your bike saddle in due time!

If you have been cycling for years with a saddle that fits you perfectly and does not cause any physical discomfort, do make sure to replace it eventually. After a number of years, it may start to cave in and no longer provide the support you need and are used to. It is, therefore, important to replace your bike saddle in due time.

Locate the mounting points

When replacing your bike saddle, take a minute to locate the mounting points. These can be in several places depending on the type of seat post on your bike. Look for bolts that use an Allen key and that are located on one side or on both sides of the clamp at the top of the seat post; in some seat posts the bolts are on the underside of the clamp.

Buy a compatible saddle

When buying a new bicycle seat, pay due attention to the saddle rail! Several options are available; if you go for the standard titanium or steel 7 x 7 mm rail, it will fit virtually any seat post.

If you choose a saddle with a carbon rail, there are two options: 7 x 9 mm or 7 x 10 mm. Check the specifications to see if your seat post is compatible; in most cases you will need a saddle rail adapter but it is also possible that your seat post is not compatible and cannot be adapted for a carbon saddle rail. If the latter is the case, you may have to buy a new seat post that is compatible.

Replace the bike saddle

When you have found a saddle that suits you better than your current one, it is time to replace it. Replacing a bike seat is a job you can easily do yourself. In this blog, we will explain what you need to do, step by step. Here we will replace a saddle whose mounting points are on both sides of the seat post clamp.

For mounting a new bicycle saddle you need the following items:

• Allen key 4 or 5
• Torque wrench (preferably)
• Spirit level

Double-check that your saddle is positioned correctly

Having tightened the bolts, double-check that your saddle is positioned correctly. If it is not, it can cause discomfort after all.