Online: The Sunday Times

Cycle Doc Your cycling problems solved by our expert rider

Q. When I sit on a bicycle seat, I suffer terrible pains in my perineum.
What do you advise?
AB, north London

A. The discomfort you describe is not that common, but various saddles have attempted to solve the problem. One is the ECD seat (ecdsports.com). It is similar to a conventional saddle but has no “nose” between your legs. It would eliminate the problem you describe, but it creates an odd feeling of not being properly on the bike.

More satisfactory is the Manta saddle. This is a radical reimagining of the bicycle saddle. The rider’s weight is supported by a platform of nine plastic struts, most of which pivot around a central spine to allow your legs to move up and down. It is very different from a conventional saddle, but is surprisingly comfortable.