ISM Endurance Saddle: A Saddle for Long Distance Comfort

In BICYCLIST Issue #127, we looked at the importance of the bike saddle as the foundation for a rider. A properly fitted saddle allows the rider to use a full range of hip movements while it provides a stable platform for the pelvis. Ideally, a high quality saddle stabilizes the rider without their awareness or any conscious effort.

The ISM PL 1.0 is a saddle that accomplishes this feat masterfully. ISM saddles utilize a design that many cyclists might consider a “triathlon saddle, but the PL 1.0 is a saddle for any serious bicyclist. The design completely removes the traditional ‘nose’ feature and, instead, supports the sit bones on the sides of the saddle. This removes the need for any type of cut-out, as the design naturally puts little to no pressure on common blood-flow-restricting areas. The result is a perfect balance between support for the pelvis and movement of the hips.

ISM saddles are positioned on the seat post differently compared to traditional saddles. Because they align differently with the rider’s body, they may not always fit when swapped onto an already fit bike. When the saddle is adjusted to the correct position with respect to the bike, and the rider learns how to adapt to the saddle, all discomfort disappears. The rider feels attached to the bike and can’t differentiate where the body ends and the bike begins. The thighs glide smoothly past the rails, that are quite far out to support the sit bones, yet no uncomfortable rubbing occurs.

The saddle then acts as a centering point for the motion of the legs when spinning. Tested on both dirt and pavement, finding the proper ride position is effortless and leads to little or no sliding around on the seat. No signs of restricted blood flow or numbness were detected while using this saddle. The padding is perfect for endurance or long-distance riding. It provides just enough comfort to train up your sit bones while remaining relatively light-weight.

If you are experiencing anything less than an ideal ride position on your long-distance bikes, the ISM PL 1.0 may be for you.

Check out ismseat.com/technology for more information on what sets ISM saddles apart from the competition.