Bike Fitter Deforms My BMC Teammachine (Fast at 41)

[@Chris-ho4ki]

I’ve been riding my SMP Lite 209 now for a month after watching this video. In all my years riding, I’ve never had more of a “Eureka!” moment on a bike, than the second I got on this saddle. Total game changer. Thanks fellas, this was gold!

[@andrewdeck7945]

Loved the banter. But also a really eye opening video that maybe the best seat for someone changes over time! I will definitely consider!

[@AliAdam80]

Thank you so much for the MIXED 5D saddle recommendation bought two for my wife and I and we both love it. No more saddle issues

[@adaml513]

Thank you Cam and Neill! I'd been riding an SQLabs 612 as a new rider the past year, and as I've gotten more used to the bike and flexible overall, I started getting pressure that eventually became pain in the groin as I was able to rotate my pelvis more and more anterior. After watching this, I ordered a SMP Nymbers to take the gamble, and it paid off! I fit the saddle as Neill explains, and hit the road for a 90 minute ride. First time in months I came back with no groin pain/numbness and I actually forgot about the new saddle about 20 minutes in. It's perfect. Thanks again, and really appreciate the info in these videos. 👍👍

[@nathanwilliams4048]

Love Cam's laugh!!! 🤣.....forgotten what the video was all about 4 minutes in when he was on the rollers and started laughing and talking about how his arse felt on the bike

[@mikehhhhhhh]

Recently got on the SMP Nymber myself and it had been revolutionary. I’ve never been so comfortable on a saddle from the off. I do find I’ve got to sit on it perfectly to avoid pressure underneath though.

[@davealexander7561]

I like the look of the SMP saddle. I went through 4-5 different saddles and they all hurt. I tried a few SMP and ended up with VT30. I'm 66 years and needed a bit more padding. Very happy now.

[@engnelsito]

I also have been using SMP saddles for over 12 years on both mountain and road bikes and really love them. If you find the right model for you, they are supremely comfortable even without padding and the curve really helps stopping me moving backwards and forwards. The only complaint is really the price.

[@davidd1492]

After trying and being uncomfortable on 4 different saddles I ended up on a SMP Well saddle and love it.

[@CamNicholls]

Interesting to hear, thanks for sharing on the thread David.

[@n.eilo_rides]

Same, I've ridden the same kit carbonio for years but changed to an SMP Dynamic after a bike fit and now stay still and do not have any seating issues. Looks dreadful but needs must

[@joekawasaki]

I rode the SMP Dynamic for a while. When I was in a stretched out position it was super comfortable but when I switched to a bike with a more upright position I could never get it quite right. Now I'm on a selle italia slr boost kit carbino superflow & even with almost no padding it's amazing!

[@EnragedMollusk]

I love my SMP saddles. No sense in delaying the inevitable, Cam, time to join the SMP club.👍

[@CamNicholls]

I’ve joined 😭 haha

[@bprocket]

Looking forward to the 3-6 month review.

[@aubreyxengland]

You definitely look better on the SMP - especially just going off your back angle and how much less you’re “hunched” over!

[@sparkvideos77]

SMP for life.👍🏾Who cares how it looks - you can't see your saddle when your riding.

[@CamNicholls]

Very true.

[@samuel8590]

lol...the BLASTER!! If the saddle gets uncomfortable try the Flite Boost in a 145mm with the relieve channel. I had the same problem as you. Always pushing myself back in the saddle. The Flite Boost did the job. It also has very thin sides and kicks out right where you need it to. I could NEVER get comfy on saddles that had a kick up the back. The Flite boost looks kick ass and Van Der poel rides it :) LMAO.....THE BIN CHICKEN

[@markusseppala6547]

I love the Flite boost superflow, got it on all my bikes. Fizik antares almost worked for me but got a lot of numbness, the Flite is perfect. I find you have to break them in though.

[@samuel8590]

@@markusseppala6547 I have them on ALL my bikes as well. They key part for me is that the saddle shape stays skinny all the way to the rear. Most saddles start to flare midway through. Thats why I can't ride other saddles.

[@martinbichler7089]

Remind me again, why have you changed to the 165mm cranks? It leaves you with a challenging contact point, are you seeing value down the road of all these changes?

[@Emolokz]

Shorter cranks are overall better for most riders, from what I recall, higher cadence, less hip impingement, less knee pain, etc. The benefits vastly outweigh the negatives, which can be remedied by finding the "proper" saddle (Goldilocks).

[@TheMerckxProject]

I have and use the Nymber, currently on my track bike because I can slide it SO far forward and I concur with Neill that the trick to it is find the right nose angle.

[@montellanojavelosa6249]

thank you Neil for the mixed saddle recommendation. I recently purchased the mixed saddle from Ali express to try. $26 usd I figured what the heck. I find it immediately more comfortable than the selle italia boost saddle. I hope this thing lasts, but great find! thank you cam for posting this video. cheers from NJ USA 🍻 addicted to your channel. thank you.

[@frazmars]

I have a selle Italia boost too and I’m considering getting the mixed as well.

[@montellanojavelosa6249]

@Firas Maruf it's worth a try for the price. hope you get the same results

[@frazmars]

@@montellanojavelosa6249 What's the padding like? Better than the Boost or similar? More plushy or less?

[@montellanojavelosa6249]

@Firas Maruf I'd say similar thickness, but the selle is more firm. mixed is softer. for reference I weigh 68kg.

[@RuiMRMesquita]

Since I changed to SMP Drakon, 4 years ago, recommended by the bike fitter all discomforts went away, it's not a looker but it is comfortable.

[@-P-Z-]

Love the banter

[@r0adrunn3r]

Love my SMP Help saddle. Most comfortable saddle I have ridden. I haven't even thought about the beak before. Damn you!!!

[@BehindTheChampion]

Was keen to see that 5d saddle. But appreciate it may be in its own video.

[@marcellon2003]

Same here. Can't help but wonder how good it would be at such a low price point

[@jonhalda]

It's insanely good I have it. For the money I doubt there is anything better. I also have a 3D seat and this mixed is better.

[@jeremymcbride8729]

Cam’s first ever M rated KZbin vid. So good. 😂

[@truthseeker8483]

SMP IS KING!! Yes there is a huge range.....hard to choose but I settled on the TRK model which suits my advancing age and bad back

[@318ishonk]

Got me an SMP Dracon recently and also love it very much. Makes me sit right in the back though, thus needs moving the saddle right to the front.

[@paulmazewski3105]

I used to think the SMP saddles looked odd, but I cannot recall why because I think they are the best looking saddles, they are the only ones I use now - a red one for my gravel bike and a navy blue for my road bike.

[@kesb1312]

I went from a specialized power saddle to a mixed saddle. Honestly the mixed performs much better for me and better for my pocket 👌

[@U.s.e.r.3493]

Amazing. Was just looking at trying out the 5D

[@ruiluz2917]

I enjoy watching you both on video! Great work guys 👍 After this video, i tried the 5D mixed ( 25euros delivered in Portugal / 10 days), feels good 👌on my 🎯, but unfortunatly the rails are 20mm shorter, now i need a 20mm SB seat post, because i feel i'm falling to the front, too much weigth on my hands😢

[@ryubatsoy2268]

I have the exact Selle italia saddle and experience. It was working very well before then all of a sudden it just hurts sitting on it even on just short rides.

[@Tommi462]

I had the same problem of slipping too far forward, but I just tilted the nose of the saddle up a bit to prevent that. It felt weird at first, but once I got used to it it was much better than the level saddle. Might be a bit of a band-aid, though. Maybe I need to check out different saddles too.

[@OVOCNYCHECK]

each one of Cam´s short but intense laughs is pushng me closer and closer to turn of this video prematurely

[@mlafleurhua]

Why not try the Fizik Aliante or the Selle Italia Novus? Their wavy profiles could alleviate Cam's propensity to slide forward then push back.

[@pmcmpc]

No trying the SQ Labs saddles?

[@TheKoegs]

Ordered the Mixed 5D because of this Video. Got it today, of course it's crooked. Hopefully they will send a new one...

[@ruiluz2917]

Hello there👍, I received my 5D sadle with no issues, maybe i was lucky, so far the sadle it self feels good. Better luck with the next one, Safe rides 🚴‍♂️

[@МаксимРакитин-ы8х]

Mixed 5D. One of the saddle rails broke off after the first ride

[@ruiluz2917]

@@МаксимРакитин-ы8х I have done so far around 10 rides with my 5D, no issues . Can i ask you if you have a specific carbon rail seat post ? Or did you over tightened de bolts maybe ??? Safe rides 🤟

[@МаксимРакитин-ы8х]

@@ruiluz2917 I use Giant TCR SL original seat post clamp, the saddle was installed using a torque wrench. The rail broke off at the rear at the attachment point to the saddle. The native saddle from Giant suits me completely. Mixed 5D was purchased only out of curiosity. From the point of view of comfort, it suited me perfectly.

[@rkgr2]

I always think Gonzo's face when I see that seat.

[@charlesschneickert7477]

I’ve owned various saddles. My SMP was the best feeling saddle I’ve had.

[@fpgamemearray]

I've always read that saddle manufacturers suggest flat saddles to people with natural forward rotation of the pelvis, if that's so, essentially every smp saddle would be uncomfortable for an individual with that kind of anatomy?

[@Silidons91]

I love my SMP Dynamic. You get used to the look. I thought it looked weird, after a month or two it looked fine to me and I didn't think anything of it.

[@ashokdongre7289]

Cam - SMP mate.. the best saddle for your issues. Love my smp. Get it in orange to match your BMC.

[@piffiiiiiiit]

Steve put me onto an SMP Gonzo over 10 years ago and I've never looked back. Fugly, but they work for me.

[@tomigun750]

Very interesting, I’ve been struggling with extra quad load ever since moving from a 175mm bike ->new bike with 170mm crank and struggle to keep my ass /sit bones planted on the saddle- will investigate saddles now

[@jw3638]

Did I miss the AliExpress saddle attempt?

[@Emolokz]

Did we skip the Mixed 5D being mounted on the bike since he was slipping on the Sanmarco?

[@gwatson7124]

They won the No-Ball prize!

[@CamNicholls]

haha

[@imranwahid11]

Two words: SMP Dynamic! 👌

[@mahi039hirt3]

Is Neill dont using Sqlab anymore?

[@judd7699]

Great video as per cam !! You’ll be able to buy soothic’s saddle sore relief sitz bath soak shortly in Australia - works wonders for your nether region 😉..

[@judd7699]

and the ladies will love it - relieves inflammation 😘

[@rangersmith4652]

I'm riding as number of different saddles on different bikes, but on my "primary" road endurance bike I have the SMP Well Gel. I had the same "edging forward" challenge, and when I first went to the SMP I would try to push myself back -- out of habit -- but every time I would find _I am back_ already. I still have the issue on some other saddles. As budget permits, I will very likely change out more bikes to SMP saddles.

[@cyclopath457]

To be honest I've never found saddles to be "comfortable". However that being said most saddles I ride are ok. Never had one that's great except a sprung brooks type on an older kalkhoff. Its got big tyres and rides like a sofa It's also really heavy. Saddles for me are really indifferent. Getting height and position right are what makes most difference.

[@ChaosandUncertainty-vl2vw]

Ever considered or used an ISM saddle? Like the PN4.0. Another different ugly look perhaps, but can be very comfortable.

[@outdoor75]

Cam I notice you toe when you pedal, when I was young I was told by a cycling coach not to toe when pedaling, but to be more horizontal (foot parallel to the ground) or when going uphill seated to pull my heels down slightly (heeling the coach called it). Any thoughts from your bike fitting mate?

[@teleguy57]

Curious about Neil's pivot to the Nymber as a go-to saddle; thinking previously his first choice was the Dynamic. Or maybe I'm recalling Steve Hogg?

[@flacche]

Why would shortening the crank length create all of these new issues? I would think slightly reducing the range of cranking motion would have little impact. Are you sure your saddle height is correct?

[@renson326806]

I would of been keen to see what you thought of the Mixed 5

[@markkoorenneef5715]

Was that the same Bin Chicken from the Chris Miller video cos it really as a skew beak/saddle :)

[@SephGarreffa]

i would like to learn more about the mixte saddle

[@DISCOhooch]

I used 4 Selle SMPs (Glider, Stratos, Carbon and Carbon Lite), 1 Sworks, 2 Pro, 2 Selle Italia, 1 Selle San Marco. I very like SMP. Now i using Stratos, but rest 3 work for me very well. P.S. In competitive cycling function over fashion.

[@n22pdf]

SQ lab 612 non R for me excellent 👍🤩🏅🚴shout out to George Vargas at REV cycling for his recommendation 😊

[@tylerlougheed214]

Oh the banter - thanks for the morning laugh boys. 🤣

[@jasuseppala5295]

I have the same saddle and it’s really hard to get in to the right position. I just get way too much weight on the hands.

[@BH-cy9tb]

I happen to love the look of the Selle SMP. I’ve been using them on my mountain bikes since 2013. Just got into road biking a few months ago and first thing I did was to put a Selle SMP seat on. 👍

[@chicagoan]

You're in the minority I'm afraid. But a seat is all about functionality so who cares right?

[@jesseschenendorf2896]

When changing between saddles any tips on how to keep the saddle height the same?

[@Alan_Hans__]

The bin chicken feels good on the ar$3. Words to live by.

[@joshhiggins4723]

I thought they were big on the SQLabs saddle

[@BioStuff415]

SMP or the Old Concor Lite for me. Bu the concor needs to modified... I drill holes in the plastic underneath with a forester bit to create a channel.

[@halfglassfull]

Well you convinced me but, man, too many choices. I worked that SMP finder about 30 times. I eventually figured the Drakon is best guess for me on a Trek Checkpoint (gravel). They don't sell them locally even tho I'm in 4th largest US city with umpteen bike shops. Jeez SMP, so many variables.

[@MTBScotland]

how did you find the MIXED Full Carbon Fiber 5D ?

[@markj.a351]

Wish i could see this guy. Been off my bike nearly 2 years now

[@CamNicholls]

2 years! Hopefully you're able to get back on it soon.

[@goonzjav]

Why not try the infinity saddle looks like the smp with even more cutout and similar profile. It’s supposedly the most comfortable saddle out there

[@lovenottheworld5723]

Slippery saddles are pros only I think. They slide forward to tuck down and put up with the discomfort.

[@chrisobyrne5675]

Almost hear the nervousness in Cam’s laugh…..please, please don’t let the SMP be the most comfortable option!

[@peterers3]

Love SMP saddle Looks

[@ECTproCycling]

The Specialized "toop" is called a "Toupé"... pronounced "Toopay". ;) "Now youz know mate ay"! ;)

[@RiseNShine681]

Your reaction to the SMP was my exact reaction to an old Brooks saddle my dad was trying to put me on. I wanted so bad for it to be like sitting on a brick, but its actually like riding on a cloud of comfort. I eventually got over the way it looks.

[@dylanl9532]

I set my smp evolution up with 10mm nose down. 15 feels like I’m falling towards the handlebar

[@everydayzwifter]

Great work. Since you brought in the 5D saddle, I hope you give a go and review too please. 👍

[@alavroff01]

Any news about the Falath Evo ?

[@McDonaldPhotography]

I’ve tried to drop my Drakon for a Selle Italia They just feel good :-)

[@lovecycling193]

So here’s how I look at SMP lots of riders who ride ultra endurance eventually end up in SMP saddles unless they are sponsored by another brand! Also the fact they shaped it ergonomically and then locked down every patent similar means no one attempt a similar approach at this moment in time! I see them as the saddles of choice for people who actually know their bodies! It’s a wise thing

[@grantmcalpine6364]

Cam's ENORMOUS Backside 🤣🤣🤣 This video rules. Makes me want to try an SMP.

[@Ar0wally]

similar probs, kept moving forward when riding n slight groin side chafing, using a Bontrager Montrose elite currently, any recommendation for a better one?

[@madrx2]

Do you or Neil know or can reccomend anyone in Melbourne that can fit bikes at this same level of professionalism ?

[@CamNicholls]

Tommy Nankervis is currently being Steve Hogg trained. I'd recommend him instagram.com/tommynankervis/?hl=en

[@madrx2]

@@CamNicholls Thankyou

[@wsbygt]

Those SMP´s along with shorter cranks sure make any bike look odd AF but at this point FTP is all that matters and no one laughs at fast riders... COME ON CAM WE´RE WITH YA!!

[@samuraioodon]

Can these used in aero position like tt position?

[@saracen888]

What’s your saddle width Cam? Cheers

[@martinvoss7925]

Lovely saddle, 100% Off topic this one... do you use Any grease in the bibs 🙈 or is that in the past of road racing? Also Any news on the Elves Evo build ?

[@nicholasthomas1987]

Haha I just bought that 5d saddle for 16BGP.. even if it isn't nice worth a shot

[@craigpavia8943]

Yet another insane bike fit, so many issues in this video: first and foremost a rider of Cams level should “test” a saddle on-road…ten/twenty miles with the bike fitter following or better yet riding with him. Tools to adjust during the ride. Sure the nose-down SMP feels good after the other saddles on a stable trainer indoors….Cam should share how much this costs.

[@mikeh8282]

Loved the video. Pure reality TV. Go the bin chicken. 👍🏻😂

[@LukeGJPotter]

A good laugh on a Friday morning. 😂

[@LukeHuyskens]

id go back to 175s before using the SMP

[@elizabethmcgovern9731]

HAHA Cam this man is out to destroy your Jewels i just love the channel no BS facts truth and a good laugh your BMC Has to be one of the tastiest bikes you can buy i love it .

[@jamesmckenzie3532]

I had an Atmos and it was brilliant. Unfortunately, it went with a bike. Maybe I can wheedle my way back to it.

[@MegaRobboz]

lmao. Just ordered the 5D about a week ago, still waiting on it. Made this video all the more interesting given it's an ali express saddle.

[@sasha371]

The saddle hight is too high, position of the ankle is suggesting on "scooping" rather than pushing, hence it might not be a saddle problem, rather high issue for about 1cm

[@alainpfammatter8224]

I m sorry but I could never ride an SMP saddle. It just looks so bad 😆

[@Cyclingchoice]

Sorry you have to go back to the ugly looking saddle :) have you tried the pro stealth series with cutout? ... the bin chicken is on the cycling channels lately :)

[@StephanieLuff]

If his fit was fine with longer cranks, why not just put those back on instead of trying a bunch of saddles to fix the slipping?

[@derekhobbs1102]

SMP swoopy woopy is back.