I’ve been racing for 6 seasons, and the bike is definitely my strength. I was fit a year ago by a very reputable fitter, but I’m curious what the ST collective sees.
Saddle issue: I’m on the bontrager hilo rxl, and after 5 years, it’s still not comfortable. I tried a dash saddle 2 years ago, but that definitely didn’t work for me. Am I too far forward? I’m sitting the entire time on soft tissue… When I was fit, he said I have a tendency to “chase the bars,” ride up front, and morph more into a “cannonball”/round-back position… How detrimental is this? Should I force myself to slide back on the saddle to flatten my back and elongate my torso?
Seriously?! Come on dude that’s your issues right there. It’s the most important piece of equipment in triathlon! Splash some cash, check out some saddles and sort it out! When you find your most comfortable options go back for a fit. Good luck buddy.
This 100%. People out here dropping $3k on a bike, $300 on a fit, and then cheaping out on saddles. Spend more money on the contact points (saddles, bibs/kit, shoes, etc.) as they’re what dictates the feel of every ride.
Chamois butter is a must too in case you haven’t tried that
I didn’t take any measurements, but seat looks low to me. I think a higher seat would flatten out your back too. Maybe a touch more reach is needed. But just a guess until seat height is adjusted.
Someone more knowledgeable may have better advice.
I think my question is what really is “comfort” and how should it really feel?
At the end of the day, I tend to shift in the saddle frequently to lessen the pressure, and it’s bearable for 100+ mile training rides (I race 70.3), but I wouldn’t say it is comfortable.
You’re answering all your own questions. I rode on a Bontrager RXL about 5 years ago coming from cycling and preferring being more upright but evolved to a Dash over many saddles. If the Dash isn’t for you I would try a Cobb or Fizik Mistica or the like to get some more pelvis rotation. Until you find the saddle to fix the problem there isn’t much point trying to critique your fit IMO.