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Did what you know isn't the way to do it...but bought a saddle with click add to basket (the above Selle). My rational - I use Charge Spoons and find the uplift tail very comfortable but lacks gap and find it gets a bit nippy on perineum on longer rides (2hr+). So thought the SMP offered the tail and a gap - got to be the one hasn't it?
Hmmm.... watch the video as they need careful setting up - got my spirit level out as described nose and tail level - got on bike - omg the nose feels likes cutting me in two. Went for a ride lowered nose in small increments 6 x felt "better" but still uncomfortable. i also moved it forward so i was a bit further back
I know new saddles can take time and they are very personal, but i keep reading how you NEED to set these SMP's up right and dont want to add it to the box marked "what was i doing buying these" Any tips help experience etc?
The primary factor in choosing a saddle, for me at least, is the distance between the sit bones. Measure that then search for a range of saddles that cater to that width. Then other factors come into play such as shape, padding, depth of seat cut-out, durability, etc.
I've got two Selle SMPs, one on mtb and one on road bike. The one on my road bike has carbon rails and less padding than the mtb saddle. Reason for that is I tend to apply less pressure on the saddle and more through my legs when road riding.
They are both fairly (the road saddle very!) uncomfortable when worn without padded lycra shorts. With the shorts on they are fine. They both curve up a bit at the front so it's important you set it with the correct angle so it doesn't press into your balls. You do want your sit bones on the padded area so ensure the saddle isn't too far back.
It took me a little while to get used to them but I've had them both for about six years now and done thousands of miles on them.
Take an allen key with you when you're out riding and experiment with different positions during the ride. It'll all be in vain though if the width of the saddle isn't right for you.
I have two as well - if they suit you they're great but, dayum, they feel weird at first
Did you find someone selling them cheap(er) ? Might be convinced to buy a spare
They make several different shapes, or at least they used to
(minor PSA - their "lady" models are often identical to the mens ones but come up cheap a bit more often)
This site was good when I got mine (bit old now, maybe):
https://www.stevehoggbikefitting.com/bikefit/2011/09/all-about-smps/