Looking to buy one of these for a long trip to Yosemite this year. I am not concerned that my seat is uncomfortable since I had Rich's do my seat a few years ago. But- I would like something that is cooler on those long days. Anybody have a pref here on which works better?
It's definitely a personal preference issue, but my Bead Rider is at least six years old. The black paint is mostly worn off it and the stretchy cord is pretty much stretched all the way out. No problem, I just tied it tighter. Point is, it's held up very well.
It took me maybe 3-4 K miles before I decided I liked it; now I wouldn't ride in the summer without it. (In fact, I use it all the time except actual winter. (By which of course I just mean Sacramento winter.
) You don't feel the air moving under your butt, but it is moving, and you just don't feel as hot and sweaty with it. I like the little massage-y feeling a little sliding around gives you, too, after a few hours on the saddle.
From the conversations and opinions I have seen in the past, the size and shape of your butt seems to influence whether you like the BeadRider, or an alternative like the AirHawk.
Those of "ample" proportions do seem to get on better with the beads than the skinny dudes. This may be a lb/sq in situation
Personally, my skinny butt liked the AirHawk plus a sheepskin, but since the Russell I haven't needed either.
I always use my beadrider on long trips. The things are well-made. I've probably got 35-40K miles sitting on it. I also wear padded cycling shorts. Sometimes on my last day ride heading home from a multi-day ride I pull it off and ride the stock seat to change things up.
If you get one, get the BEADRIDER brand name, if only because their website has such a great photo on the cover...
AirHawk in summer, AirHawk case with six layers of and old blue-foam sleeping pad in winter. The foam is too hot in summer, but the warmth is great in the winter.
I have a beaded seat cover (tan). I may have thrown it out because I couldn't figure out who would want it.If anyone wants it, PM me and I'll send it to you if you want to pay shipping.
