Biplab Das 
Australian company AtaraxyBSC has introduced a new bicycle saddle, the vabsRider, promising to address long-standing comfort issues for everyday riders. This innovative saddle, developed over several years, aims to provide a more enjoyable cycling experience by significantly reducing discomfort.
Unique split design
The vabsRider saddle features a distinctive split design, allowing both sides to move independently. This motion is in sync with the rider’s leg movements and hip joint rotation. As the rider pedals, each side of the saddle rotates forward and then returns to a neutral position. This dynamic adjustment shifts pressure from the sit bones to the femurs, aiming to distribute pressure more evenly and alleviate pain.
Inspiration and development
The idea for the vabsRider was conceived in 2016 by Robin Macan, a civil engineer, who noticed a gap in the market for truly comfortable bike saddles. With support from the Inventors Association of Australia (IAA) and Philippe Guichard of D2 Design and Development, the concept evolved into what AtaraxyBSC claims to be the world’s first virtual axis bicycle seat.
Testing and public launch
While the vabsRider is not yet available for purchase, AtaraxyBSC plans a public tester event on 16 June in Hawthorn, Australia. This event will allow cyclists to experience the saddle’s comfort benefits firsthand. The company has also announced its participation in Eurobike 2024, where it will showcase the unique saddle.
Robin Macan shared his vision for the vabsRider, stating, “We aimed to create a saddle that brings true pleasure to bike riding and expands the cycling experience to a wider audience.” AtaraxyBSC emphasises that the saddle’s innovative design makes cycling more comfortable, potentially attracting new riders to the sport.
Why the vabsRider stands out?
The vabsRider’s design is focused on addressing a common problem for cyclists: saddle discomfort. Traditional saddles often concentrate pressure on the sit bones, leading to pain and discomfort over time. By shifting pressure to the femurs and allowing independent movement of each saddle side, the vabsRider aims to alleviate these issues.
Future prospects
AtaraxyBSC’s approach to saddle design could potentially transform the cycling industry by making riding more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. The upcoming public tester event and the company’s presence at Eurobike 2024 will be crucial in demonstrating the vabsRider’s benefits to the cycling community.
Anticipation and market impact
Cyclists and industry experts are keenly anticipating the vabsRider’s full launch. If successful, this innovative saddle could set a new standard for bike seat comfort, encouraging more people to take up cycling and enhancing the experience for current riders. The development of the vabsRider highlights the ongoing evolution and innovation within the cycling industry, driven by a commitment to improving rider comfort and satisfaction.
AtaraxyBSC’s introduction of the vabsRider saddle represents a significant advancement in bicycle seat design. By addressing long-standing comfort issues with its unique split design, the vabsRider has the potential to make cycling a more enjoyable activity for a diverse range of riders. As the company prepares for its public tester event and Eurobike 2024, the cycling world watches with interest to see how this innovative product will influence the future of bike riding.
