How High is Too High? Home Saddle height tips
Getting your Saddle height right can feel like you are chasing a unicorn but One of the most crucial aspects of cycling comfort and efficiency is getting your saddle height just right. An improperly adjusted saddle can lead to discomfort, inefficiency, and even injury.
When completeing our professional bike fits at the clinic we regularly see saddle positions that are causing so many avoidable issues! SO that you are able to embrace the unsesonably warm weather and get out on your bike, In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to set your saddle height correctly on your bike, ensuring a more enjoyable and efficient ride.
Find Your Starting Point
To determine your initial saddle height, stand next to your bike and adjust the saddle so that it's level with your hip bone. This initial adjustment will serve as a starting point for further adjustments.
Get on Your Bike
Get on your bike and pedal until one leg is fully extended at the bottom of the pedal stroke. Your leg should be almost straight but with a slight bend in the knee. If your leg is fully extended or excessively bent, adjust the saddle accordingly. Too Straight will cause hamstring and back of knee pain and too bent can cause front of knee pain.
Check Knee Alignment
Next, check the alignment of your knee over the pedal spindle when the pedal is at the bottom of the stroke. A plumb line or even the edge of a doorway can help you determine if your knee is directly over the pedal spindle. If it's not, adjust the saddle forward or backward as needed. (A word of caiution, moving this will also affect your reach or how far away the hand bar is from the saddle.)
Fine-Tune and Test
After making adjustments, take your bike for a test ride. Pay attention to any discomfort or strain in your knees, hips, or lower back. Your pedal stroke should feel smooth and efficient. If you experience any discomfort or notice inefficiencies, make further adjustments and test again until you find the optimal saddle height for your comfort and performance.
Recheck Periodically
As you ride more frequently or your fitness level changes, you may need to readjust your saddle height. It's a good idea to periodically check your saddle height to ensure optimal comfort and performance.
Setting your saddle height correctly is essential for maximizing comfort, efficiency, and performance while riding your bike. By following these simple steps and paying attention to your body's feedback, you can achieve an optimal saddle height adjustment at home. Remember, small adjustments can make a big difference, so take your time and enjoy the ride! For most people these adjustments will be enough, for those that feel they need more that is where our professional bike fit is right for you!