But what should you do if saddle sores happen? So far I’ve been quite lucky; but I did have some trouble a few weeks back. After a ride of about 20 miles, I had a spot in each groin that was rubbed raw. I think the problem was old shorts; and I’ve discarded that pair.

For about a week, I used antibiotic ointment; and when indoors at home, I hung around with nothing on below the waist. The sores cleared up quickly; but out on a long tour or multi-day race, this would be a much bigger problem. Quitting the club at that point might be difficult or impossible!

How do you avoid those clubs nobody wants? Chamois Butt’r helps prevent saddle sores; and I always have it on hand. Even so, sometimes sores happen! Sunblock keeps me out of the sunburned club; and I eat during rides longer than 12 miles or so. That keeps me out of the bonk club! To avoid the overuse injury roster, don’t push hard gears too soon; and don’t try to ramp up the mileage too fast. You don’t want to make cycling such a list of ailments that you’ll be quitting the club, and missing out on riding!