How Philly's Naked Bike Ride cyclists stay comfy
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Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
Philly's naked cyclists are almost back in the saddle — but that raises a bun-undrum: seat soreness.
Why it matters: Cyclists have many worries on the road — aggressive drivers, potholes, unpredictable pedestrians — but, when tush comes to shove, comfort is No. 1.
Driving the news: Philly's Naked Bike Ride rolls through town for the 16th time on Saturday, bringing thousands of hardcore cyclists and naturalists alike to town for a 12-mile jaunt, mostly through Center City.
- The ride promotes greener ways to get around and body positivity.
Zoom in: As cyclists gear up for the ride, biking group CycleScenePHL is giving away 500 seat covers to make the "bare as you dare" ride a little more comfortable without those padded bike shorts.
- And Axios chatted with some biking vets about how they avoid the day's biggest pressure point — saddle sores.
The big picture: Researchers say bikers are most at risk for saddle sores when they're doing long-distance rides, their handlebars are positioned lower than their seats, and when they don't wash cycling shorts after every ride.
- While this weekend's 12-mile ride might sound like a long way for a newcomer, it's really not that bad — especially because everyone is pedaling at "parade pace," says Maria Serrahima, an avid cyclist who has been riding in the event since 2012.
After having a baby just a few months ago, Serrahima is getting back in her cycling groove, calling Saturday her warmup before she tackles a century ride.
- According to experts, that's when Serrahima should really be thinking about the saddle zone. The best way to guard against any possible biker bumps is by donning the right ride and seat.
- Serrahima is breaking out the peach Dutch bike for this one.
Third-year rider Aaron Rabon tells Axios investing in a seat that's the "right fit for you" is key to avoiding friction, though it can be a little pricey.
- He also advises riders not to sit through the entire ride, especially when the route gets bumpy.
- "A long ride could cause some damage, but even a short ride could be uncomfortable," Rabon says.
Between the lines: Cycling magazine found that many female cyclists, in particular, suffer silently through saddle issues.
- But experts say these discussions are important to have because such problems can be linked to other issues, like disfigurement, numbness or sexual dysfunction.
Pro tips for newbies: Keep a backpack of clothes just in case, and bring some chamois cream to help with any chafing.
The bottom line: Liberation, baby, bare your soul!
- And if something feels off, shift gears.