I have been lucky and have been able to use stock seats on all my bikes, but first i would suggest trying your new seat with good riding shorts. It takes awhile to build up mileage on any seat. Then you will know for sure and have a starting point.As for being hard the seat is designed that way for longer rides. Its is hard to believe but in the long haul it is more comfortable.Also you can slide on the saddle for different "mountain terrain" positions.Also i would talk to the shop you bought the bike from and see if they can make a exchange if you think you need a different one.