research on BSDs
Get the complete clinical research summary on Bicycle Saddle Diseases — authored by Dr. James Parker, MD — delivered to your inbox.
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The hidden danger
of traditional saddles
The Problem
Bicycle Saddle Diseases are medical conditions caused by prolonged pressure, compression, friction, and trauma to the perineum — the area between the anus and genitals. Your body weight presses directly onto sensitive nerves, arteries, and tissues with every ride.
The Reality
These aren't mere discomforts. BSDs are real threats to your health, quality of life, sexual wellness, and longevity. The data is unambiguous — and the conventional cycling industry has not solved this.
Bicycle Saddle Diseases
by category
- Erectile Dysfunction2× higher odds
- Prostate Cancer2.9× higher odds at 3.75–8.5 hrs/week; 6.1× at >8.5 hrs/week in men over 50
- Infertility1.5–2× higher odds of low sperm count/motility at >5 hrs/week
- Urethral Strictures2.5× higher odds
- Vulvar Pain & Numbness69% report genital pain; 58% numbness
- Sexual Dysfunction54% of female cyclists affected
- Labial FibrosisHardening and enlargement of labia — may require surgery
- Recurrent UTIs1.4× higher odds; up to 6.5–9.1× with high intensity
- Arterial EndofibrosisHardening of arterial walls from sustained compression
- Saddle SoresChronic skin breakdown from friction and pressure
- FolliculitisInfected hair follicles in the perineal region
Traditional fixes don't work
None of these approaches address the core problem: a large portion of rider weight resting directly on the perineum.
Better Saddle Fit
Professional fitting optimizes saddle position but cannot eliminate perineal weight transfer. The fundamental geometry of an upright saddle puts bodyweight on the wrong anatomy.
Cutout Saddles
Saddles with relief channels or cutouts actually reduce surface area — which concentrates and increases peak pressure on the remaining perineal contact points.
Padded Shorts
Chamois padding reduces friction and abrasion. It does not reduce compression on arteries and nerves. In women, chamois can increase the risk of recurrent UTIs.
The Uncomfortable Truth
The statistics above are sourced from peer-reviewed studies. Get the complete BSD research summary delivered to your inbox.
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✓ Check your inbox for the peer-reviewed research on BSDs.
Recumbent bicycles support your weight on your back and buttocks instead of the saddle area — completely eliminating perineal pressure. Cruzbike recumbents combine saddle-free comfort with front-wheel-drive performance, efficient climbing, and real road handling. Enjoy every cardiovascular and mental health benefit cycling offers — without the hidden costs.
Completely eliminates perineal pressure
Eliminates numbness, pain, and saddle sores
Dramatically reduces risk of erectile dysfunction and prostate issues
Reduces risk of UTIs and sexual dysfunction
Better ventilation and all-day comfort
No chamois shorts or creams required
100 Mile Trial
Love it or get a full refund & free return shipping.
We're confident you'll love your bike. After you've ridden it for at least 100 miles in 100 days, if you don't love it, we'll give you a full refund on the bike — including return shipping on us.
For full details and instructions on how to begin a 100 Mile Trial return, visit our Return and Refund Policy page →
Our 100 Mile Trial applies to: new, full-price, complete T50, A4x, or S40 Cruzbikes purchased from Cruzbike.com by first-time Cruzbike owners in the contiguous United States only. For a full refund, your Cruzbike must be carefully disassembled and re-packaged in its original box according to the video instructions we provide.
The endurance road bike. Ride farther, train longer — front-wheel-drive performance with zero saddle pressure.
The adventure touring recumbent. Dual-position suspension, rack-ready versatility, and front-wheel-drive power for any terrain.
The accessible cruiser. Simple, elegant, and delightfully affordable — the hop-on-and-go Cruzbike, rack-ready from day one.
Don't let saddle diseases
stop you from cycling.
Switch to Cruzbike. Ride saddle-free, ride farther, and keep every health benefit cycling has to offer.
Schedule a free consultation
Not sure if a recumbent is right for you? Talk directly with the Cruzbike team before you buy. We'll answer every question — fit, riding style, switching from a road bike, all of it.