- To get the right saddle you need to first measure the width between your sit bones, but there’s much more to it. Measuring your sit bones for a new saddle is never accurate, however it can point you in the right direction. The best way to get the right saddle is visiting your local bike shop and try before you buy.
Contents
- 1 How do I know what size bike saddle to buy?
- 2 Where should your sit bones be on a bike saddle?
- 3 What is the correct height for a bike saddle?
- 4 How do you pick a saddle?
- 5 Are bike saddles Universal?
- 6 How do you measure your leg for a saddle?
- 7 Should I tilt my saddle forward?
- 8 What happens if saddle is too high?
- 9 Why are bike saddles so uncomfortable?
- 10 How do you measure a saddle setback?
- 11 Should bike seat be higher than handlebars?
- 12 How far should saddle be from handlebars?
- 13 Should your leg be straight when cycling?
How do I know what size bike saddle to buy?
Finding a bike saddle that is the right size for your body mostly has to do with the width of the saddle and how well it supports your ischial tuberosities (sit bones). Generally, you want a saddle that’s wide enough for good support, but not so wide that it causes rubbing and chafing.
Where should your sit bones be on a bike saddle?
The optimal saddle width guarantees that the sit bones lie completely flat on the saddle. This is the only way in which pressure is relieved on the sensitive area in men and on the pubic arch in women and ensures more efficiency. A saddle should fit like a pair of shoes!
What is the correct height for a bike saddle?
If your saddle height is correct, your heel should just graze the pedal at the bottom of the pedal stroke (in the 6 o’clock position). When riding, if you encounter pain at the front of your knee, raise the saddle slightly. If you have pain in the back of the knee, drop the saddle.
How do you pick a saddle?
5 tips for finding the perfect saddle
- Find the saddle with the right shape. No two people are the same.
- Take account of your flexibility and your position on the bike. Test your flexibility.
- Measure the width of your sit bones. Saddles come in different widths.
- Set the saddle to the right height.
- Saddle position.
Are bike saddles Universal?
Yes, most modern bike seats are universal and can be interchanged with different seat posts. The exceptions are if you have much older equipment or a specialized bike. It’s best to check the number of rails and the rail width on your saddle to ensure a correct fit to the seat adapter.
How do you measure your leg for a saddle?
The best way to measure for your seat size is to take the measurement of your thigh from your knee to your buttocks. Sit in a chair so your knees are at a 45-degree angle with your feet flat on the floor and with your buttocks touching the back of the chair.
Should I tilt my saddle forward?
Tilting the saddle forward will help relieve the stress on the mentioned area, and put more of it on the sitting area. BE CAUTIOUS: this will put considerably more stress on the arms and shoulders. Be prepared. As with anything else, your body will adapt naturally after a while.
What happens if saddle is too high?
A saddle that is too high will cause the hips to rock back and forth. Not only does this detract from pedalling efficiency, but it can also be extremely uncomfortable. Discomfort can show up in your lower back or as knee pain (especially in the back of the knee).
Why are bike saddles so uncomfortable?
There are multiple reasons why bike seats might be uncomfortable. Bicycle seats aren’t meant to carry the riders full weight, but only their sit bones. Their unusual shape allows thighs to move freely when cycling. Proper rider form and seat adjustment can also make a big difference in comfort.
How do you measure a saddle setback?
2. Determining Saddle Setback. Move the saddle forward or backward so your knee is over the pedal spindle when the crank is in the 3 o’clock position. Again, this is a good starting point, and then you can adjust your cleats fore and aft as needed.
Should bike seat be higher than handlebars?
Your handlebars should be at least as high as your seat, or even above it, so you can ride upright. If your handlebars are lower than your seat you’ll be pushed into your handlebars, and you’ll place more stress on your wrists, arms, neck, and back.
How far should saddle be from handlebars?
For a performance road position, the top of the handlebar should be about 5-6 cm below the mid-point of the saddle. 4. For a recreational road bike position, the top of the handlebar should be level with the mid-point of the saddle, or maybe a couple of centimetres below.
Should your leg be straight when cycling?
When you’re riding a bike, your legs should become completely straight when the pedal is at the down most part of its cycle. With the knee straight, and the leg completely outstretched. So, yes, your legs should be straight when riding a bike. However, some people recommend maintaining a slight bending of the knee.