Statistics can seem unbelievable sometimes, but here’s one I don’t think any cyclist will argue with- “2.5 billion people in the world ride bikes, and not a single one looks forward to sitting on a wet or dirty saddle.” That quip serves as the tag line for Kikker Product’s Bike Saddle Cover Keychain, a simple accessory with a simple name that performs a simple (but highly appreciable) task- keeping your butt clean and dry.
Bikerumor previously checked out a fancier removable seat cover called the Cityseat. The Cityseat offered colorful, form-fitting fabric shells and also folded into a compact pouch, but its funding campaign fell short of its goal.
However, the Bike Saddle Cover Keychain has already surpassed its Kickstarter campaign target with a few weeks left to go. Perhaps price is the deciding factor- consumers seem to prefer paying less for Kikker’s cover with its attached keyring/clip, despite its not-so-refined appearance…
The Bike Saddle Cover Keychain is a handy accessory for commuters riding personal or publicly shared bicycles. Aside from protecting you and your clothing from dirty or wet saddles, the cover’s attached key ring/clip makes it convenient to carry with you so thieves don’t snatch it.
The cover simply stuffs into its compact carrying pouch, there’s no need to worry about folding it up nicely. The stuffed pouch measures approx. 6cm x 7cm x 2cm, and buttons itself shut. If you don’t use it as a keychain you can clip the cover to a backpack, belt loop, etc.
Oddly, there isn’t any info given on what material the seat cover is actually made from, or if it offers any additional padding. The company describes it as “strong and reliable” and by the photos it looks like a waterproof material… Also, we can assume they’re shooting for a universal fit but it would be nice to see some unfolded dimensions, especially for commuters with big cushy saddles.
The Bike Saddle Cover Keychain is currently available in pink, black or green, but two more color choices will be added if the campaign raises €5000. A smaller ‘micro’ version could also be developed if the larger stretch goal of €10,000 is generated.
While it’s not the most refined looking bicycle accessory, this seat cover’s most attractive feature is probably the low price tag. Early bird buyers can get one for just $9 USD, buy a pair for $18 or shops/rental fleet owners can grab five covers for $39. The first units are expected to ship out in March, and for further details check out the Kickstarter campaign here.
