So what’s on your checklist before you zero in on your new cycle? In a bid to stay fit or to avoid spiraling motoring costs, watch out! You may just end up harming your sex life. That’s what a new research led by an Indian origin scientist suggests.

According to consultant urological surgeon Vinod Nargund from St Bartholomew's and Homerton Hospitals, London, the sexual problems which can occur by choosing the wrong bike include genital numbness, erection problems and soreness and skin irritations in the groin area.

Men who cycle a lot can also experience changes to their sperm function, because of the excessive heat generated in the pelvic area.

No general link between cycling and male infertility has been established, but it is still recognised as a possible side effect and has been noted in a number of male cyclists.

Regular cyclists also run a higher risk of testicular damage and impaired testicular function.

Mountain bikers run a particular risk, says Nargund, as studies have shown that they exhibit higher levels of scrotal abnormalities than on-road cyclists.

"The bicycle saddle is in direct contact with the perineum and its underlying structures. It makes contact just behind the scrotum where the nerves and blood vessels enter the back of the scrotum and penis. This area is sensitive, with hair follicles and sweat and sebaceous glands, which are all good breeding grounds for infection," he said.