To ride comfortably, you need to take the time to find the correct saddle height for you. All bicycles come with seat posts that can be adjusted up or down to suit the rider’s size.
Not only will finding the right saddle height help to keep you comfortable while cycling, but it will also increase your pedaling efficiency.
If you are looking to take it very seriously, you can pay for an expensive professional bike fit. However, for most cyclists, knowing these simple and easy tips, you will find the correct saddle height without having to spend lots of money.
Essentially, you can easily adjust your bike saddle to your correct height by raising your seat to the height of your hips.
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Adjusting your saddle height
Most bikes will have a simple seat post clamp that can be unscrewed using an Allen/Hex key, or they may also have a easy quick release clamp.
The first test you can do is to stand next to your bike. The saddle should be in line with your hips. If it is too low, you will risk knee injury and not use all your legs’ power as you are not getting a full extension.
Too high and your legs will be overextended at the bottom of the pedal stroke, leading your hips to sway and potentially causing lower back discomfort.
Once you have adjusted the saddle height to be in line with your hip, jump on the bike for the next test. When the crank (pedal arms) are vertical, put your heel on the one that is at the bottom (closest to the ground).
In this position, your leg should be very close to completely straight. If you use clip-in pedals, then your leg should be straight, on the basis that you will be clipped in by your toes and have that little extra reach while utilizing your calf muscles.
More Reading
- 6 different ways your bicycle chain keeps coming off
- This is why you should (or shouldn’t) buy a bike with suspension
- Can you leave your bike outside in the weather?
Conclusion
Finding the right saddle height is essential for your comfort and improving pedaling efficiency. Micro adjustments should be enough to banish the knee pain you develop during longer rides.
If you have set the height correct for your legs but are still having some discomfort, you may need to move the saddle forward or back slightly.
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