The Science of Comfort: Pressure Mapping the vabsRider vs. Traditional Saddles
How Real-Time Data Confirms 8 Years of Engineering
Cycling is a fantastic way to stay fit, but for many, it comes with a price: numbness, chafing, and even sexual dysfunction. These issues stem from static pressure exerted on the perineum.
At ataraxyBSC, we claim the vabsRider reduces this pressure significantly. But we don't just guess—we test. We partnered with Elbows Akimbo, a centre for cycling biomechanics, to put our seat to the test using state-of-the-art pressure mapping technology.
The Study Setup
The analysis was conducted by Anthony Mezzini, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with over a decade of experience working with athletes.
- Subject: Recreational male cyclist (56 years old, 91.5 kg).
- Equipment: A pressure-sensitive mat from German company gebioMized.
- Method: The subject rode a commuter bike with a traditional saddle, followed by the vabsRider, while the mat recorded real-time force distribution.
The Results: 80% Less Pressure
The data was conclusive. The pressure mapping showed a 75%-80% reduction in pressure when using the vabsRider compared to the traditional saddle.
Point Load vs. Distributed Load
- Traditional Saddle: Creates a "Point Load," concentrating weight on a small, sensitive area.
- vabsRider: Creates a "Distributed Load," shifting weight away from soft tissue and onto the sit bones where it belongs.
Expert Conclusion
Anthony Mezzini summarised the findings:
“The vabsRider significantly reduced load on the seated area, which could lead to increased comfort and potentially fewer cycling-related injuries over time.”
While every body is unique, this data confirms that the vabsRider’s Virtual Axis design effectively eliminates the primary cause of cycling pain.
