Why does it hurt so much?

[liv198288]

Like really sore bum and thighs only after like 5 mins of riding. I am wearing normal primark cycling shorts as well but not seem to be doing the trick. And not to mention the awful wedgies.

It shouldn’t. Are you particularly slim? Padded cycling shorts might help.
Also invest in a decent seat, most that come on bikes as standard are crap

Are you on a bike or on a spinning or gym bike?

No thunder thighs and arse

Actual bike but hurts on both

Yes decent seat, I had a wide one and it was just awful, go narrower. Primark do not do proper sports clothing, it's leisure wear. Get yourself to a cycling shop and get some proper padded shorts.

As an occasional cyclist myself I think it’s normal. Seasoned cyclists get used to it. I’ve been told a bigger seat is not good, you want a razor seat!

You need a different saddle. Many saddles are designed for men. Find one that is wide and soft and comfy.

Just feel like the proper cycling shorts are way too tight and wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing commando

If you wear loose clothing, particularly if you have a little weight on your thighs, the fabric can rub and you'll get quite sore. If you're doing 2 or 3 miles it'll be fine, but if you do 30 like me it'll be sore without proper padded shorts!

No, they are the worst! Go thin . . .

Are the padded shorts flattering

Comfort and fit is surely more important than flattering!

Check this out:

https://www.cyclingweekly.com/group-tests/womens-cycling-shorts-best-375574

This is why I loath cycling and riding. Bloody uncomfortable even with padded shorts.

Nice big comfy squishy saddle, sprung if possible

We do 20-30 miles (leisure speed) and Im always comfortable. I just wear jeans or chino type trousers.

The rare time we decide to hire bikes if we havent brought our own, its so so painful and ruins it because the seats are thinner.

Whereas I find the opposite, narrow ones are awful, whereas I have done a multi day regional cycle tour on a fat, wide saddle! So I think this is a very personal thing.

You can buy a cover for the seat that is padded. After a few weeks it will hurt less but it does take time.

Try different seats to find what works fit you. Minimal works for me - wide and padded was uncomfortable.
Adjust the position of your seat(height, angle, front to back position) and keep tweaking it until it fits your body well.
Work on core strength - improves all round cycle comfort.
Padded tight cycle leggings or shorts. Proper ones, not primark. Not flattering, they will never be flattering, but that’s not the point!

My OH has a 'ladies' wide squishy saddle as well

https://cyclewearcentral.com/collections/womens-shorts-tights

My thighs were black and blue last time I cycled around 28 years ago so I have never cycled since. I find it so uncomfortable.

I have a racing saddle. I’m going to be frank here - are your bits an innie or a outie? I am the latter and need a cut out saddle. Selle Italia are a good brand.

Oh God I know! I use a stationary bike at home and every time it’s like it’s crushing my bones

Well this is a top tip thanks

Get yourself proper padded shorts! And do NOT wear knickers underneath.

If you're serious about cycling, take your bike to a decent bike shop and get a saddle fit.