A Better Starting Point for Saddle Comfort

Saddle comfort can be frustrating. A saddle might look right and have plenty of padding, but if it does not support your sit bones properly, it can become uncomfortable surprisingly quickly.

At Chain Reaction, we use the Retül Digital Sit-Bone Measurement device to measure sit-bone width and give us something useful to work from instead of choosing a saddle by appearance or guesswork.

What Is the Retül Digital Sit-Bone Device?

The Retül Digital Sit-Bone Device, or DSD, is a pressure-mapping tool used to measure the distance between your sit bones. That measurement helps us identify which saddle widths are most likely to provide proper support.

It will not choose the saddle for you, but it gives us a much better idea of which widths to consider and which ones to rule out.

How the Measurement Works

You sit on the digital measurement device while its 768 pressure sensors map where your sit bones make contact. The DSD measures sit-bone width in real time with sub-millimetre precision, giving us a clear measurement to use when comparing saddles.

The measurement only takes a few minutes in store. There is no need to arrive wearing cycling clothing or bring your bike for the measurement itself.

Why Saddle Width Matters

If a saddle is too narrow, your sit bones may sit outside its main supporting area, increasing pressure on sensitive soft tissue. If it is too wide, it can interfere with your pedal stroke or cause rubbing around the inner thighs.

The correct width helps support your pelvis in the right place. This can reduce pressure, hot spots and the need to keep shifting around on the saddle during longer rides.

More padding is not always the answer. A heavily padded saddle can still be uncomfortable if its width and shape do not suit the rider.

Width Matters, but Shape Still Counts

Sit-bone width is an important measurement, but it is not the whole saddle-fitting process. We also consider your riding position, flexibility, bike type and how much you move around while riding.

A road rider in a low position may need a different saddle shape from someone sitting upright on a commuter or e-bike, even if their sit-bone measurements are identical. Mountain bikers and gravel riders may also prefer shapes that provide support while still allowing room to move around the bike.

You can also browse our Specialized saddle range to compare different widths, shapes and technologies, including Mirror and MIMIC options.

Visit Us for a Free Measurement

Drop into Chain Reaction at 4/218 Moorhouse Avenue, Christchurch for a free Retül Digital Sit-Bone Measurement. We can measure your sit-bone width, talk through the type of riding you do and help narrow down the saddles most likely to suit you.

With more than 200 free car parks on site, it is easy to call in and get a better idea of where to start.