New Bicycle Saddle Prevents Damage Associated With The Genital Area

July 12, 2013 — Researchers at the University of Alicante have developed a novel bicycle saddle that prevents chafing, pain and other damage associated with the genital area as impotence and prostatitis. 

It is a hinged articulated saddle whose coccyx-support narrow front and wide back have been articulately joined. The front part is mobile while the back is fixed, and both may change their positions at the user's will. This new concept of bicycle saddle is designed and patented by researchers from the University of Alicante's Institute of Physics Applied to Science and Technology and the Department of Physics at the Polytechnic Higher School. The UA researcher, Alfonso Panchón Ruiz, head of the research work, explained that "the main advantage of this new design compared to traditional saddles, is that it allows -at the user's will- to rest and recover from fatigue the perineal area suffering lasting intense compression for which they are not designed anatomically."

     "The classic bicycle saddle has a unitary structure formed by a rigid body in anteroposterior direction which makes that, permanently, the perineal tissues, which are soft and not ready to withstand these forces, are being compressed, independent of the position taken by the user. For this reason, soon after starting the exercise, nerves and arteries reach high levels of compression, which causes problems associated with lack of blood supply, such as numbness and affection of the genitals in both men and women, and in the long run, significant pathologies requiring medical treatment may appear," Alfonso Panchón says.

     Up to date, only two solutions have been found, either to go up on the pedals, on a typical pedalling, visible both in professional races and gyms, or dismounting the bike and standing up, abandoning thus, the exercise started. In this sense, Alfonso Panchón explains that "with this new design, it is not the user who must be separated and rising from the seat, but it is the saddle which separates spinning or scrolling down to the perineal area of the user. Thus, it radically prevents pressure on that area, immediately improving the blood supply to the affected areas, resulting in functional recovery of the tissues concerned.

     Another advantage is that the user does not lose balance control ability in driving, regardless of the conditions of use, race, walk, gym, mountain, etc.., and this allows users to make new lateral movements on the anterior mobile part as well as immediately recover -at their will- the traditional full seat with a slight initial reverse movement.

     Also, with this model of saddle, more than ten centimeters can be released between the seat and handlebars, which can be availed with competitive advantage in declines as it allows an aerodynamic position on very steep slopes. 

    The research team has a prototype that allows them to check the health and medical benefits of this innovative aerodynamic concept of saddle. Currently, there is nothing similar on the market, so it is a technology with great potential for international marketing.

NEW BICYCLE SADDLE PREVENTS 
CHAFING, PAIN AND OTHER DAMAGE 
ASSOCIATED WITH THE GENITAL AREA

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/07/130712084439.htm

CYCLING IN INCREMENT WEATHER

Don’t’ let the rain keep you indoors. The right equipment, proper clothing and these few tips will keep your wheels spinning in good weather and in bad.  

WET WEATHER CYCLING

• LIGHTS:  Use a front headlight and a flashing red taillight.
• AVOID PUDDLES:  Puddles can hide potholes and other roadside debris.
• AVOID FOG LINES:  Painted features can be slippery when wet.
• AVOID WET LEAVES:  Wet leaves can cause you to lose control.
• BRAKE EARLY:  Stopping distance while riding (unless you have disc brakes) will be increased. Lightly pulse the brakes to remove water from the rims – avoid breaking hard. Never brake or corner in the center of the roadway at intersections - these are some of the oiliest sections of the road.
• TIRE PRESSURE Check your tire pressure. Proper air pressure is related to the rider, bike weight, road conditions, cycling trails and weather in your area. A cycling coach or cycling vendor/sales representative can help you determine the right tire pressure.
• TAKE YOUR TIME:  Slowing down lets you detect and react to hazard roadways.
• STAY ALERT:  Driver’s see what you see and in increment weather you are equally challenged. Bright clothing and lights aren't always visible in heavy rain and nighttime fog. Be guarded – don’t take chances, be watchful – when things look really bad they are really bad, take cover, be extra cautious 

WET WEATHER GEAR.  

The wetter you get the colder you are going to be. Being cold and wet is a quick way to get sick. Keep your core warm – enjoy the ride regardless of the weather.

• FENDERS:  Protect yourself, your equipment and other cyclist. Reduce road spray kicked up by your bike, while protecting your feet and lower legs. Today’s fenders are an upgrade from earlier fenders. They are versatile, easy to put on, easily removed, and a must have in increment weather.
• WATERPROOF CLOTHING: A waterproof cycling jacket is a must. Pit zips, ventilation, proper cuffs and more are important in choosing the proper jacket.  Waterproof pants are also a must, along with proper socks, booties and shoe covers, waterproof gloves, hand and foot warmers, and a helmet cover - all basic bad weather necessities.  
• REFLECTIVE PRODUCTS AND WEAR:  Yes, it might not be the most appealing for some but it can be a life saver in cloudy, foggy, rainy or snowy weather. Today’s reflective products are easily affixed and just as easily removed. Being seen is a lot more important than looking “Kool”.
• EYEWEAR:  In low light, clear or yellow lenses for eye protection are critical.  When riding in the rain sunglasses will cut out light, making road obstacles hard to see.  Fight the fog with anti-fog drops and lens wipes. Lens wipes vary – tell your sales rep or cycling coach what type of weather you’ll be riding in. 

Cycling as a commuter, a professional cyclist, or as a way to stay fit and healthy can be fun in any kind of weather.  LEGENDS Bicycles and Accessories will meet all of your cycling needs; Bike sales, Bike repair, Bike maintenance, Bike accessories, Bike inspection, Bike training, and Bike Coaching.