If you ride with the seat too high or low, you risk knee injuries, lower back pain, saddle sores and reduced pedaling efficiency. So, you can see why we feel that seat height is one of the most important bike adjustments. We were experts at fitting bicycles and we can find the best seat height for you. If you wish to make the adjustment on your own, however, here is one easy method (all you need is a helper):

Put on cycling clothes (including shoes) and start adjusting by leveling the seat and centering its rails in the seat post clamp. Now, to find the right height, place the bike in a doorway or on a stationary trainer so you can hold yourself up. Have your buddy stand behind you where he can watch your legs and hips (if you can not find a helper, park a video camera behind you and watch yourself on TV). Get on the bike, place your heels on the tops of the pedals and spin backwards. The seat height is perfect when your legs are completely extended as the pedals reach the bottom of the pedal stroke with your heels on the pedals. If your hips rock sideways, the seat is too high. If there is any bend in the knees, the seat is too low.

With the seat at this height, you will have a slight bend in your knees when you are riding with the balls of your feet over the pedals (where they belong), which should be the most comfortable, efficient and injury-free saddle position.

Now that you have taken the trouble to find the best seat height, it is a great idea to mark the setting by wrapping a bit of tape around the post. That way, if you box the bike for shipping or change the seat for a friend to use the bike, you can quickly return it to the right spot for you. If you have any questions or need help adjusting your seat height, give us a call and we will be happy to help.