Bike fitting is sometimes treated like it's some ancient magical secret that only the old cycling masters possess and it's seldom given to the masses. Thank you for this very easy to understand video.
This method is very general and excludes many factors in determining the best saddle height. For example, two riders with exactly the same inseam length but different foot sizes would end up with different knee angles based on this method. The rider with bigger feet would have more knee bend. Also, this does not account for how much a rider naturally lifts their heels while pedaling. Some will pedal heel high and some heel low which also affects knee angle. Then there is saddle angle and saddle fore/aft to consider. Too nose high or low affects back angle and saddle comfort. Too far forward or too far aft on the saddle rails affects muscle engagement. Saddle angle and fore/aft also affects hand pressure on the handlebars. In short, have your saddle professionally set.
As a newbie, i have watched bike videos for about 6 months now and no one ever mentioned seat height. This alone has had far more impact on my cycling journey
@@evilkamatis542 NOT TRUE! There were no seat heights mentioned in the videos I watched. I have no idea what bike videos you are talking about LMAO 🤯 😂
@@nelsond5361 then I don't know what kind of videos you are watching. You are probably watching the wrong videos then. if I'd get a $1 for every video that mentions seat height, i'd probably have enough to buy a high end bicycle lmao
@evilkamatis542 If i could get $1 for every bike video that does not mention seat height, I would probably have enough to buy an expensive electric bike. Imao
When I got my first bike (A tad over 60 years ago!) My Dad (Who was an ex road racer) told me that this was exactly the right way to set the height of your bike seat! Over the years I have seen so many people with the seat set at the wrong height for them and I have often wondered just what damage they were doing to themselves as a result of this. I have recently acquired a new bike and the first thing I did was set the seat height...not using the same method as in your vid, but with the same result...leg is almost straight when ball of foot is on the pedal. Refreshing to see someone who knows what they are talking about with regards to bike adjustment. Excellent vid! Excellent advice! Cheers, Doons
Any other tidbits or gem you can share from your dad? I find people from former generations were fonts of knowledge and seem to know much more than those of us from latter generations. Ps first thing I do when I get a new (or second hand bike) is make sure I know how to get home. Now I will carry some tools with me
@@chadkline4268 Perhaps techniques have changed a little over the years Mate....but back when my Dad first showed me how to set the seat height correctly most racing bikes had 'Toe clips" so it was not possible to set the seat height with your heel on the pedal as the Toe clips prevented your heel from resting on the pedal...but now days they use clips on the bottom of the shoes I think? So that might make a difference....but essentially the leg has to be fully straight...or very close to it....when the pedal is at it lowest point. Cheers, Doons
2:54 The reason why you want a slight bend in the knee at the bottom of the pedal stroke is because that relieves some of the pressure on your sitting area by your feet riding on the pedals.
No. While that can be a benefit, it is to prevent locking out the knee at full leg extension with each pedal stroke, which will destroy the knees. It also optimizes the leverage your muscles can apply to the pedaling motion.
@@MCodger You are correct its similar to a military stand, if you don't lock the knees you can stand in place for hours. I finally completely 20 miles and I noticed my right knee was hurting while my left could go another 20 miles no problem. I'm adjusting my seat right now.
@@MCodgerTHIS! Full extension also causes pelvis micro-rocking from side to side, in order to maintain the correct fulcrum / equilibrium between legs and torso … and a loss off efficiency The rest of your core muscles will not thank you for your strong and trigger-happy Lats when ur older jus’ sayin 😂
Assuming ur not joking, should of used piece of tape. Bro listens to his wife 😂 it's my house, if robbers break in I have to go die, she be one sleeping on couch. You let her control your life, by not setting boundaries, sounds like toxic relationship.
Man... I've seen so many overcomplicated and confusing videos on this subject. This video was PERFECT. Well done and thank you so much. To the point, easy to understand. Easy instructions so you can DIY. Awesome
I’m 59 and haven’t ridden a bike in 35 years. But I just purchased one with the intention of improving my health. Thankfully I came across your video, because truthfully I never knew what is the proper seat adjustment. After watching this a sprinted to my garage and adjusted my bike accordingly . Thanks !
Hey. I just turned 59 too! I just took my bike out and went for a 12 mile ride and man ..here I am.. My butt was hurting.. New seat, and now I got it adjusted right. GLTUS!
I agree with earlier comment. Sit on bike, Set saddle height so that with your heel on the pedal your leg is straight. When you clip on your shoes ( or in my case put your shoes in the toe clip, old school ) your leg will now be bent the correct amount. This method eliminates the need for measurents which canm easily be misread. You can also use your forearm length to set the correct distance between the saddle and handlebars. I know your method works but I as a 71year old lifelong cyclist I find the direct body on bike set up just as good. Good video.
Your inner seam measurement measured in relation to the centre of the crank does not take into account different crank arm lengths. Placing your heel on the pedal and having your leg extended straight at the bottom of the pedal stroke is all you need to do.
@@bgnPrinceton weirdly having followed the video I've ended up with 76cm from the bottom tube, using your method i measure 92cm to the top of saddle. My inseam is 86cm... So the method suggested seems to account for addition of shoes / clipless pedals and that's probably why it works better as a benchmark I guess.
For those who don't have much time to do the in-seam book measurements part, or are too lazy (like me) to even be bothered to use a tape measure, just hop on ur bike & do the step @ 2:11 & u should be good to go. Kinda like a rule of thumb especially in side-of-the-road situations 👌
Yeah, people keep yapping about how easy and to-the-point this was, but it's just a bunch of extra steps that are unnecessary, you just hop on, rotate the pedal so it's straight down, put your foot in the usual position on it (middle or pad), get a slight bend in your knee, and that's it, lock the seat at that height. But another important point that affects knee pain, efficiency etc., that he completely leaves out, is the front-to-back position of the seat! You put the pedal horizontal pointing forward, hop on and rest your foot on it in the normal biking position. Your knee should be bent at 90 degrees, not a lot more or a lot less. If it's not, move the seat forward or back until it is. (This could change the height setting a bit, so may want to recheck that one after you do this one. They both affect eachother so you can do them in any order, you'll still have to recheck.) And lastly, if you're a casual/relaxation biker and want to avoid wrist/arm/shoulder pain more than you want aerodynamics, adjust the handlebars high enough that you're not riding hunched forward with too much weight on your arms.
I was close, had a slight bend at the knee but didn't notice I was moving my hips to compensate. Would've never noticed until you mentioned it! Thanks!!!
While that’s certainly a way to adjust seat height… what we’re looking for here is the *correct way. Doing what you suggested, with a straightened leg as also suggested, causes near full extension which slightly rocks the hips from side to side to counter-balance , over-using some muscles and under-using others. Goodbye maximum efficiency. Maybe that’s why the video doesn’t suggest your method? 😂
@KarmasAbutch The video literally *does* suggest his method at 2:10. It start with a measurement to get a _starting_ seat height, and as a spot check you basically do what he said: heel to pedal, line it up and literally "if your seat height is set properly, your leg should be fully extended and locked out at rhe knee". So it sounds like the inseam measurement minus "about 10cm" is really trying to get you close to what your own body is the direct test of. And it involves exactly what was stated. That rule of thumb is apparently the guiding pattern, and part of the "correct way", ya smug smuggypants.
Good video. There is a common thought among bicycle dealers that the leg shall be slightly bent when the heel touches the pedal. But my own experience confirms that the instruction in this video is good.
I suspect this is to make sure the person isn't tilting their hip as described in video. The very slightest of knee bend would prevent this. Also guessing most non serious casual riders find a slightly lower seat height more comfortable. Bike shop will get less complaints and less returns for adjustment if they err on lower side.
Perfect explanation! I've always felt pain in my knees when riding, turns out my bicycle seat is too low, I want to start cycling again to get fit, thanks for the video
Finally I have a measurement instead of always adjusting. I'm constantly getting knee pain not knowing the height I should be at. I'm 6'0" and due to your video I can actually enjoy riding again. Well done sir 👍
Wow ! Excellent video! I’m just learning to ride and I noticed pain in my knee. Now I know why. My seat is too low. Thank you for teaching me how to adjust the seat! Your video was extremely helpful.
Good stuff. Remember when you have your bike serviced they often pull up the seat for their stands. So marking will help. If you can't dismount easily then the sadde is too high. With baggy trousers you can even catch your groin area on the seat. Ripping it or causing an accident. Better a bit low than a bit high.
who are the 188 thumbs down👎 seriously. This is an excellent review of something that a lot of bikers get wrong, I see it everyday. So watch this great review, follow his easy and very helpful advise and get him a thumbs up👍👍👍👍👍👍 thanks safe biking and good health in 2021👊👊
1. Too often today, few folks have a book big enough to use in checking one's inseam. Any square-edged paper sheet, or carpenter square, or.... will do. 2. Stand at a refrigerator, & use a whiteboard marker. No lingering marks :-) Nice vid!
If you have a steel frame with a bolt clamp, I would avoid lubricating the seatpost in this way. You will have to tighten the screw very tightly so that the seatpost does not go into the frame and you can damage it. It is better to spray with some silicone grease and wipe off the excess with a cloth. I got such a case - previous owner lubricated too much and tighten too strong. Now I have to be careful with tightening and I use a bit of blackboard chalk
Lubricate inside the seat tube, under the seat clamp, with an extremely thin layer (no bits of grease). Not the seat post, as this will also lubricate the part that seat clamp holds onto, which might cause your seat to slowly slide down, require that you tighten your seat clamp too much or make it impossible to even get the seat to stay in place.
The dropper seat post is one of the greatest inventions in cycling especially for those with permanent injuries . im 76 and ride e mt. bikes with a dropper post . it allows me to constantly adjust position that gives me instant but temporary relief . when the new position starts to feel uncomfortable i just move up or down and continue to ride on relative comfort .
Thank you for this, I’ve just recently bought a bike and was clueless about seat height. I had to change the seat as it was quite hard/small and very uncomfortable.
This is great...for street bike riders. I don't own a street bike. Too many friends have been injured on the street. I am strictly a mountain biker. I feel much safer barreling down a boulder field than riding with kamikaze drivers. For us the greatest invention in modern times has been the dropper post. Depending on terrain, angle of ascent/descent we will move our saddle up or down 4-5 inches.
@@ianfutcher1518 No it won't be too high cause there is like just 2 inch of space from pedal to ground when lowered and ur knees shouldn't be full straight it should be slightly bent *and if it's too high for you (ur legs are not reaching ground or barely reaching) then lower it a bit :)*
Thank you very much for sharing. I haven’t been cycling for years and recently bought a new bicycle. My right knee was so sore and finally I now understand how to adjust the seat. 👍🏻❤
Thanks, I got a bike a few months ago, and I really feel like I am not biking right. It been a few decades since I have owned a bike to ride on the regular but I feel like I have never rode a bike before when I go for a ride. Takes me too long to start/push off, I wobble etc.. I know that will all change over time, but I also know UA-cam has it all. So Thank you,
So helpful. I went to a shop in Cary nc on Kildare (Allstar b-shop) and was set up deferentially and never thought my knee hurts cause of how high my seat is.
I just purchased a bike yesterday and couldn't figure out which type of handle bars to get. I tried 3 different one and got a medium height one because some of them make my arms tire from being up to high.
Lovely clear video, explaining a good method of setting seat height on a bike which covers lots and gives all the essential warnings and insights and is a strong and valuable piece of work - the one place that there is a weakness is the actual measurement of seat height on the bike, which is the key point of the video - this is rushed and that's why you're getting the FAQ's on this. In the (very quick) demonstration,you can see where you're measuring from, the video needs to slow down a little on this point and be much clearer about where you're measuring to. Possibly calling out what the measurement was in this example might help too. Hope you don't mind me pointing this out but you've done so well with this I'm sure that what I've suggested would improve it a little more.
FAQ: Measurement is taken from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of your saddle. There are other ways to calibrate your seat height, this is just one way. Happy Riding!
This is the biggest problem facing inexperienced riders. The extension is important. every degree your extension is diminished is a drastic reduction in power. Also, time in the saddle is more important than speed on the bike. I learned these things in person from Greg LeMond in January 1985 at one of his training camps in Murieta, California.
The saddle setback is also important and will affect the pressure on the bars. Your hands should float on the tops of the bars when pedaling moderately hard. If not, slide the seat back to get more of the weight back and counterbalance the torso. Once you have moved the seat back or forwards, you'll have to readjust the saddle height. If you cannot move the saddle back or forwards enough, you may need a seat post with a different setback.
If you have quick release for your seat post, you can start directly with 2:10 and adjust up or down until the heel test gives correct results. I think this is better than trying to measure anything because it will result in correct setting regardless of the cam length of your bike.
@@BoomerActual I think "inseam" refers to the trouser length from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg. The test in video is literally about checking if the distance from your seat to the bottom of your heel with the shoe that you're going to use for bicycling is correct. With quick release, it's faster to set the seat at somewhat random height and simply check how far you're off from the optimal height.
this is helped me a lot! I'm a 10 but I can use my older brothers mountain bike while my feet are extended all the way while touching the pedal! 👍👍👍👍👍👍
I purchased a hybrid bike last February.....and set my seat height correctly.....I think? I will be following the instructions in this video tomorrow ....and probably adjusting my seat. THANKS!
Useful video, but it assumes that all riders (and bicycles too for that matter) have similar body proportions. Forget measuring, that is just a place to "start". Use the position of your feet (as shown in the video while in the saddle) to determine whether the seat should go up or down. Then of course there is the issue of the type of saddle. That also will influence the positioning of your seat. Thudbuster seats limit the range of leg movement (downward) and therefore will have to be lower than a thinner seat that allows greater leg extension. The "best" way to adjust your seat to the proper height is to continue making minimal (one each ride) adjustments until you no longer find yourself at the end of the ride wondering if the seat height is properly set. Typically physical discomfort tells the tale. The same can be said for the proper fit of cycling shoes. If you find yourself thinking about the fit of your shoes while riding, they aren't a proper fit. The shoe should be an extension of your foot and when properly fitted you won't find yourself thinking about your shoes while riding.
I've never heard of the "inseam minus 10 cm" measurement for seat height. That's much simpler than the 1.08 or whatever factors. Now I'll have to see how all of these compare.
It is best to start fitting feet to the pedal. The transverse metatarsal arch (depression behind the ball of the foot) needs to be over the pedal spindle. There are no down sides to having the foot too far forward on the pedal but injuries are possible with the foot too far back. Start with the foot forward on the pedal and adjust back if necessary. Then measure your inseam to high into your crutch without shoes. 1.09 times the inseam measurement will be close to the pedal to top of seat measurement with the pedal at furtherest point from the seat. There are no down sides to having the seat a little too low but both comfort and injury problems with the seat too high. Start a little low and adjust higher with mm increments. Forward and back adjustment of the seat is also important. Start all the way to the rear and adjust forward 2 mm increments.
The rough set up is ok. I set the seat for the top of the position,12 o'clock position . Then I set crank length for the bottom of the stroke. Correct top position is where you get your maximum power from.
@@thatsthewayitis1 UA-cam is an international platform. This is going out to the whole world, not just US citizens, so it makes sense to use metric anyway.
I see so many cyclist with their saddle too high! Their cadence is too low and they are swaying side to side just to reach the bottom of the pedal stroke! 🤦♂️.
UPDATE: Thank you everyone for the positive feedback! I'm glad this video has been helpful 🙂 Here's some answers to some of your frequently asked questions: 1) This is just an unscientific, ballpark method to set your *approximate* seat height. I used to work at a bike shop and we'd do this before sending customers out on test rides. Everyone has different anatomy and conditions, and the method may not work for you. For a proper bike fit assessment, visit a professional fitter in your area. 2) Safety first. I never advise anyone to ride a bike where their feet can't touch the floor. If you're experiencing this issue, your frame may be too large. If you're experiencing this issue, lower your seat until you can comfortably rest both feet on the floor. Then if you're still not satisfied, visit a professional fitter in your area. Happy riding!
Hey Reggie, thank you for the great video. I am just learning how to ride a bike so I don't feel comfortable to have my saddle that high (yet). However, I have another related question: sometimes when I ride for an hour or so I feel like the blood circulation is limited just where the body is pressed against the thinner part of the saddle. It does hurt after a while... Is this normal? (Please keep in mid my saddle is a bit lower than it should be, and I am a real beginner). Many thanks in advance.
Hi Chemirina, that should be fine to set it lower if you're not feeling comfortable. For the seat, you will always feel some pressure but if you're losing circulation it could be many things: your seat shape, the seat setback (how far forward or back it is) and the angle or tilt of the seat. Its hard to say without seeing anything in person, so I'd recommend taking it to a bike shop and asking for help with the fit. I also have some new fitting videos coming soon so stay tuned!
Be careful if you’re feeling like circulation is limited. Years ago, an avid cyclist friend caused damage to his testicles from pressure due to improper bike seat. Agree with other writer that you should seek help from pros at a good bike shop. I realize this is an old post, so it’s probably not going to be helpful. Hope you have it all happily worked out! Happy biking!
I've always favoured setting the seat to a mid position, front to back then set the seat so the leg is straight when the heel is on the pedal with a thin heel. Then move the foot to 3 o clock and slide saddle until the knee is over the spindle with the ball of the foot over the spindle. Best to set both cranks the same way to do this. Ps brooks saddle plus point 😊
Good video, easy instructions for seat height… One small thing, toward the end when you’re talking about "increments" you have it misspelled on the banner on the screen…
Bike fitting is sometimes treated like it's some ancient magical secret that only the old cycling masters possess and it's seldom given to the masses. Thank you for this very easy to understand video.
😂
This method is very general and excludes many factors in determining the best saddle height. For example, two riders with exactly the same inseam length but different foot sizes would end up with different knee angles based on this method. The rider with bigger feet would have more knee bend. Also, this does not account for how much a rider naturally lifts their heels while pedaling. Some will pedal heel high and some heel low which also affects knee angle. Then there is saddle angle and saddle fore/aft to consider. Too nose high or low affects back angle and saddle comfort. Too far forward or too far aft on the saddle rails affects muscle engagement. Saddle angle and fore/aft also affects hand pressure on the handlebars. In short, have your saddle professionally set.
@@r.w.6251 I'm sure you're right and this fitting isn't perfect for racing or huge distances, but isn't it good enough for amateurs?
@@michaw7408 yeah, Not gonna have my seat professionally set for my groceries ride :)
Yes same I'm not an iron man athlete I just want to enjoy my ride without the pain of the knees
As a newbie, i have watched bike videos for about 6 months now and no one ever mentioned seat height.
This alone has had far more impact on my cycling journey
shitload of videos about this. I dont know what have u watched before
I have no idea what videos you are watching but seat height is one of the first things they always mention. LMAO
@@evilkamatis542 NOT TRUE! There were no seat heights mentioned in the videos I watched. I have no idea what bike videos you are talking about LMAO 🤯 😂
@@nelsond5361 then I don't know what kind of videos you are watching. You are probably watching the wrong videos then. if I'd get a $1 for every video that mentions seat height, i'd probably have enough to buy a high end bicycle lmao
@evilkamatis542 If i could get $1 for every bike video that does not mention seat height, I would probably have enough to buy an expensive electric bike. Imao
When I got my first bike (A tad over 60 years ago!) My Dad (Who was an ex road racer) told me that this was exactly the right way to set the height of your bike seat! Over the years I have seen so many people with the seat set at the wrong height for them and I have often wondered just what damage they were doing to themselves as a result of this. I have recently acquired a new bike and the first thing I did was set the seat height...not using the same method as in your vid, but with the same result...leg is almost straight when ball of foot is on the pedal. Refreshing to see someone who knows what they are talking about with regards to bike adjustment. Excellent vid! Excellent advice! Cheers, Doons
Any other tidbits or gem you can share from your dad? I find people from former generations were fonts of knowledge and seem to know much more than those of us from latter generations.
Ps first thing I do when I get a new (or second hand bike) is make sure I know how to get home. Now I will carry some tools with me
Bruh ! :O :D XD :D :O :D :-)
I think the interesting trick was that your leg should be fully extended with the heel on the pedal.
@@chadkline4268 Perhaps techniques have changed a little over the years Mate....but back when my Dad first showed me how to set the seat height correctly most racing bikes had 'Toe clips" so it was not possible to set the seat height with your heel on the pedal as the Toe clips prevented your heel from resting on the pedal...but now days they use clips on the bottom of the shoes I think? So that might make a difference....but essentially the leg has to be fully straight...or very close to it....when the pedal is at it lowest point. Cheers, Doons
@@doonsbury9656 🙂 I use toeclips 😆 you can turn the pedal upside down 👍
2:54 The reason why you want a slight bend in the knee at the bottom of the pedal stroke is because that relieves some of the pressure on your sitting area by your feet riding on the pedals.
No. While that can be a benefit, it is to prevent locking out the knee at full leg extension with each pedal stroke, which will destroy the knees. It also optimizes the leverage your muscles can apply to the pedaling motion.
@@MCodger You are correct its similar to a military stand, if you don't lock the knees you can stand in place for hours. I finally completely 20 miles and I noticed my right knee was hurting while my left could go another 20 miles no problem. I'm adjusting my seat right now.
Your body needs to rest on the seat, NOT the pedals. Otherwise your a$$ sores will develop. You need to ride comfortably.
You obviously don't ride.
@@MCodgerTHIS!
Full extension also causes pelvis micro-rocking from side to side, in order to maintain the correct fulcrum / equilibrium between legs and torso … and a loss off efficiency
The rest of your core muscles will not thank you for your strong and trigger-happy Lats when ur older jus’ sayin 😂
Made a mark on the wall… Wife got angry… Things escalated from there, now i am sleeping on the couch. But hey what a difference it made in my cycling!
Lmfaoo
😂😂
Assuming ur not joking, should of used piece of tape. Bro listens to his wife 😂 it's my house, if robbers break in I have to go die, she be one sleeping on couch. You let her control your life, by not setting boundaries, sounds like toxic relationship.
@TheMan8884 you sound like your severely mentally lacking, it's a video about bike riding not about your desperate attempts to control your wife
Tell her the bike is a better ride anyway... 😜
Either you'll have her prove you're wrong, or you'll be able to trade in for a newer model. 😁😇😉
Man... I've seen so many overcomplicated and confusing videos on this subject. This video was PERFECT. Well done and thank you so much. To the point, easy to understand. Easy instructions so you can DIY. Awesome
I’m 59 and haven’t ridden a bike in 35 years. But I just purchased one with the intention of improving my health. Thankfully I came across your video, because truthfully I never knew what is the proper seat adjustment. After watching this a sprinted to my garage and adjusted my bike accordingly . Thanks !
Hey. I just turned 59 too! I just took my bike out and went for a 12 mile ride and man ..here I am.. My butt was hurting.. New seat, and now I got it adjusted right. GLTUS!
I am 30 and the thing I am not liking is butt pain.
hope you're still going, even around the block for a few mins
5 stars for showing examples instead of just telling and making it so easy to understand
I agree with earlier comment. Sit on bike, Set saddle height so that with your heel on the pedal your leg is straight. When you clip on your shoes ( or in my case put your shoes in the toe clip, old school ) your leg will now be bent the correct amount. This method eliminates the need for measurents which canm easily be misread. You can also use your forearm length to set the correct distance between the saddle and handlebars. I know your method works but I as a 71year old lifelong cyclist I find the direct body on bike set up just as good. Good video.
Your inner seam measurement measured in relation to the centre of the crank does not take into account different crank arm lengths. Placing your heel on the pedal and having your leg extended straight at the bottom of the pedal stroke is all you need to do.
just a ballpark starting point 😉
So a better starting point would be to set the seat height where it's measured to the pedal in the down position, angled to follow the seat tube.
@@bgnPrinceton weirdly having followed the video I've ended up with 76cm from the bottom tube, using your method i measure 92cm to the top of saddle. My inseam is 86cm... So the method suggested seems to account for addition of shoes / clipless pedals and that's probably why it works better as a benchmark I guess.
So helpful to find someone who doesn't just naturally assume I'm riding a racing bike. Thanks! :)
For those who don't have much time to do the in-seam book measurements part, or are too lazy (like me) to even be bothered to use a tape measure, just hop on ur bike & do the step @ 2:11 & u should be good to go.
Kinda like a rule of thumb especially in side-of-the-road situations 👌
Yeah, people keep yapping about how easy and to-the-point this was, but it's just a bunch of extra steps that are unnecessary, you just hop on, rotate the pedal so it's straight down, put your foot in the usual position on it (middle or pad), get a slight bend in your knee, and that's it, lock the seat at that height.
But another important point that affects knee pain, efficiency etc., that he completely leaves out, is the front-to-back position of the seat! You put the pedal horizontal pointing forward, hop on and rest your foot on it in the normal biking position. Your knee should be bent at 90 degrees, not a lot more or a lot less. If it's not, move the seat forward or back until it is. (This could change the height setting a bit, so may want to recheck that one after you do this one. They both affect eachother so you can do them in any order, you'll still have to recheck.)
And lastly, if you're a casual/relaxation biker and want to avoid wrist/arm/shoulder pain more than you want aerodynamics, adjust the handlebars high enough that you're not riding hunched forward with too much weight on your arms.
If taping around the seatpost instead of electrical tape use reflective tape. Just one tiny extra layer of safety.
I like how your mind works.
And anti-seize compound instead of grease.
I set up my seat intuitively and now I checked by your recommendation and it was correct. Thanks for tutorial.
Finally someone that made it simple to understand and with demostration. Nice job. 👍😊
You’re right...
In my case works 0.883 method with cycling shoes.
Never would imagine someone will maks such good video about riding bike, what a time to be alive, thanks God
I will try with my tandem
Bruh ! :O :D XD :D :O :D :-)
I was close, had a slight bend at the knee but didn't notice I was moving my hips to compensate. Would've never noticed until you mentioned it! Thanks!!!
Finally someone that made it simple to understand and with demostration. Nice job
Easy...straighten your leg, touch your heel to pedal at lowest point in stroke, raise/lower seat to crotch, done..
Or watch the video. Thank you for your input.
While that’s certainly a way to adjust seat height… what we’re looking for here is the *correct way.
Doing what you suggested, with a straightened leg as also suggested, causes near full extension which slightly rocks the hips from side to side to counter-balance , over-using some muscles and under-using others. Goodbye maximum efficiency.
Maybe that’s why the video doesn’t suggest your method? 😂
@KarmasAbutch The video literally *does* suggest his method at 2:10. It start with a measurement to get a _starting_ seat height, and as a spot check you basically do what he said: heel to pedal, line it up and literally "if your seat height is set properly, your leg should be fully extended and locked out at rhe knee". So it sounds like the inseam measurement minus "about 10cm" is really trying to get you close to what your own body is the direct test of. And it involves exactly what was stated. That rule of thumb is apparently the guiding pattern, and part of the "correct way", ya smug smuggypants.
@@maljamin ring ring* ☎️
2 weeks ago called and it can’t be bothered to read this ya late to the party random saddo 🤡
@@KarmasAbutchthe irony
Good video. There is a common thought among bicycle dealers that the leg shall be slightly bent when the heel touches the pedal. But my own experience confirms that the instruction in this video is good.
I suspect this is to make sure the person isn't tilting their hip as described in video.
The very slightest of knee bend would prevent this.
Also guessing most non serious casual riders find a slightly lower seat height more comfortable. Bike shop will get less complaints and less returns for adjustment if they err on lower side.
Perfect explanation! I've always felt pain in my knees when riding, turns out my bicycle seat is too low, I want to start cycling again to get fit, thanks for the video
Thanks for the simple explanation and visuals that accompanied each step...concise and to the point stuff! Great work!
Finally I have a measurement instead of always adjusting. I'm constantly getting knee pain not knowing the height I should be at. I'm 6'0" and due to your video I can actually enjoy riding again. Well done sir 👍
Wow ! Excellent video! I’m just learning to ride and I noticed pain in my knee. Now I know why. My seat is too low. Thank you for teaching me how to adjust the seat! Your video was extremely helpful.
Good stuff. Remember when you have your bike serviced they often pull up the seat for their stands. So marking will help. If you can't dismount easily then the sadde is too high. With baggy trousers you can even catch your groin area on the seat. Ripping it or causing an accident. Better a bit low than a bit high.
who are the 188 thumbs down👎 seriously. This is an excellent review of something that a lot of bikers get wrong, I see it everyday. So watch this great review, follow his easy and very helpful advise and get him a thumbs up👍👍👍👍👍👍 thanks safe biking and good health in 2021👊👊
thanks for the kind words!
Your video remind me of the exact measurement of the seat of the bike. I start biking since 1966 until now, thank for the reminder.
I've follow your instruction,and it is work for me. My butt doesn't hurt anymore. All this while,it is just because of the seat 😅
1. Too often today, few folks have a book big enough to use in checking one's inseam. Any square-edged paper sheet, or carpenter square, or.... will do.
2. Stand at a refrigerator, & use a whiteboard marker. No lingering marks :-)
Nice vid!
Thanks for sharing!
or laptop 😏
If you have a steel frame with a bolt clamp, I would avoid lubricating the seatpost in this way. You will have to tighten the screw very tightly so that the seatpost does not go into the frame and you can damage it. It is better to spray with some silicone grease and wipe off the excess with a cloth. I got such a case - previous owner lubricated too much and tighten too strong. Now I have to be careful with tightening and I use a bit of blackboard chalk
Lubricate inside the seat tube, under the seat clamp, with an extremely thin layer (no bits of grease). Not the seat post, as this will also lubricate the part that seat clamp holds onto, which might cause your seat to slowly slide down, require that you tighten your seat clamp too much or make it impossible to even get the seat to stay in place.
The dropper seat post is one of the greatest inventions in cycling especially for those with permanent injuries . im 76 and ride e mt. bikes with a dropper post . it allows me to constantly adjust position that gives me instant but temporary relief . when the new position starts to feel uncomfortable i just move up or down and continue to ride on relative comfort .
After watching so many videos on UA-cam, I could find one which explains with easy procedure. Thanks a lot.
Thank you for this, I’ve just recently bought a bike and was clueless about seat height. I had to change the seat as it was quite hard/small and very uncomfortable.
You're welcome!
This is great...for street bike riders. I don't own a street bike. Too many friends have been injured on the street. I am strictly a mountain biker. I feel much safer barreling down a boulder field than riding with kamikaze drivers. For us the greatest invention in modern times has been the dropper post. Depending on terrain, angle of ascent/descent we will move our saddle up or down 4-5 inches.
Ive been having a hard time adjusting my saddle and now i will try this. Will let you know the results.
Results?
Sorry guys I was so satisfied with my saddle height right now. I highly recommend his explanation because its simple and easy to understand.
If you transfer the measurement to top of seat to crank spindle as demonstrated then that would be much too high surely ?
@@ianfutcher1518 No it won't be too high cause there is like just 2 inch of space from pedal to ground when lowered and ur knees shouldn't be full straight it should be slightly bent *and if it's too high for you (ur legs are not reaching ground or barely reaching) then lower it a bit :)*
@@KotnisYT ah I see - I made a mistake. I only deducted 1cm instead of 10cm from the inseam measurement.
Wow! Mine was way too low, no wonder my knees hurt! Thank you young man..
You made my riding 80% better and easier,,
Thanks a lot,,❤️
Thank you.why no mention of forward/back adjustment of seat?
Very useful information 👌🏻
Wonderful to help old riders adjust their bikes. Thanks
Explained in centimeters, love it!
Thank you very much for sharing. I haven’t been cycling for years and recently bought a new bicycle. My right knee was so sore and finally I now understand how to adjust the seat. 👍🏻❤
Your videos are very high quality! Keep up the great work!!! :)
The simplest, most logical and clearly explained video I’ve seen on this topic - many thanks!
Thank you for this clear and detailed video!!! Finally someone that was able to explain this very important step.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks, I got a bike a few months ago, and I really feel like I am not biking right. It been a few decades since I have owned a bike to ride on the regular but I feel like I have never rode a bike before when I go for a ride. Takes me too long to start/push off, I wobble etc.. I know that will all change over time, but I also know UA-cam has it all. So Thank you,
Now this is how you do an instructional video.
So helpful. I went to a shop in Cary nc on Kildare (Allstar b-shop) and was set up deferentially and never thought my knee hurts cause of how high my seat is.
What about bike handles?
I just purchased a bike yesterday and couldn't figure out which type of handle bars to get. I tried 3 different one and got a medium height one because some of them make my arms tire from being up to high.
Great explanation 👌
Can you please show how to sit on the seat for the first time riders and paddle ?
Exactly what I was looking for 👍🏼
Exactly what I was looking for! Had to fast forward through 5 other videos that had no demo.
glad you enjoyed it!
I watched a couple of other videos about seat height before this one. Your video was simple to understand and quite useful. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
No NonSense and Straight to the point with perfect example as well.. thank you brother for this vidoe 😊
Your video really helps me fit my bikeseat. Now I can ride comfortably. Thank you. You should do more video like this.
After I got my new cycle and looing for this seat Hight issue... It's really helpful and thanks for this video... 🙂
Lovely clear video, explaining a good method of setting seat height on a bike which covers lots and gives all the essential warnings and insights and is a strong and valuable piece of work - the one place that there is a weakness is the actual measurement of seat height on the bike, which is the key point of the video - this is rushed and that's why you're getting the FAQ's on this. In the (very quick) demonstration,you can see where you're measuring from, the video needs to slow down a little on this point and be much clearer about where you're measuring to. Possibly calling out what the measurement was in this example might help too. Hope you don't mind me pointing this out but you've done so well with this I'm sure that what I've suggested would improve it a little more.
Attention to detail. Well said
Very simple explanation, even for me as beginner cyclist . THANKS!
FAQ: Measurement is taken from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of your saddle. There are other ways to calibrate your seat height, this is just one way. Happy Riding!
नमस्ते, AdventureasportU
Thanks
Should you use that measurement for road bike racing
Bruh ! :O :D XD :D :O :D :-)
this method does not make sense because it doesnt take into account the crank arm length
I seriously thought I was going to have to buy a larger bike. I'm still putting a wider saddle on, but this helped tremendously!
This is the biggest problem facing inexperienced riders. The extension is important. every degree your extension is diminished is a drastic reduction in power. Also, time in the saddle is more important than speed on the bike.
I learned these things in person from Greg LeMond in January 1985 at one of his training camps in Murieta, California.
The saddle setback is also important and will affect the pressure on the bars. Your hands should float on the tops of the bars when pedaling moderately hard. If not, slide the seat back to get more of the weight back and counterbalance the torso. Once you have moved the seat back or forwards, you'll have to readjust the saddle height. If you cannot move the saddle back or forwards enough, you may need a seat post with a different setback.
Unclip a foot, rest heel on pedal at bottom of stroke, adjust until leg is straight, micro-adjust from there if necessary
Excellent information to all cyclist, thank you good luck 👍
If you have quick release for your seat post, you can start directly with 2:10 and adjust up or down until the heel test gives correct results. I think this is better than trying to measure anything because it will result in correct setting regardless of the cam length of your bike.
So you measure your inseam from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of the seat surface correct?
@@BoomerActual I think "inseam" refers to the trouser length from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg. The test in video is literally about checking if the distance from your seat to the bottom of your heel with the shoe that you're going to use for bicycling is correct. With quick release, it's faster to set the seat at somewhat random height and simply check how far you're off from the optimal height.
this is helped me a lot! I'm a 10 but I can use my older brothers mountain bike while my feet are extended all the way while touching the pedal! 👍👍👍👍👍👍
Glad it helped!
Right on time, have been feeling some plains on my knees,. Thanks for your help!!
Excellent tutorial you’ve got a gift for explaining keep it….
Thank you very much!
Very easy to understand instructions to adjust a bike saddle height. Many thanks!
It helps a lot bro! Keep it up!
thank you for making it so easy to understand with simple explanation, It was stright to the point. Appreciate your effort man
Can't I just start by putting my heel on the bike pedal and skip all the measurement stuff?
Yes
yes you can, the measurement is just to get a good starting position if you have no idea.
I purchased a hybrid bike last February.....and set my seat height correctly.....I think? I will be following the instructions in this video tomorrow ....and probably adjusting my seat. THANKS!
Did it work?
Useful video, but it assumes that all riders (and bicycles too for that matter) have similar body proportions. Forget measuring, that is just a place to "start". Use the position of your feet (as shown in the video while in the saddle) to determine whether the seat should go up or down. Then of course there is the issue of the type of saddle. That also will influence the positioning of your seat. Thudbuster seats limit the range of leg movement (downward) and therefore will have to be lower than a thinner seat that allows greater leg extension.
The "best" way to adjust your seat to the proper height is to continue making minimal (one each ride) adjustments until you no longer find yourself at the end of the ride wondering if the seat height is properly set. Typically physical discomfort tells the tale. The same can be said for the proper fit of cycling shoes. If you find yourself thinking about the fit of your shoes while riding, they aren't a proper fit. The shoe should be an extension of your foot and when properly fitted you won't find yourself thinking about your shoes while riding.
Great advice - I’d recommend checking out Steve Hogg for advance fitting - this tutorial is for getting a ballpark good fit
If you actually watched the video it does not assume that all people are the same, it just mentions that it provides a ballpark measurement.
I've never heard of the "inseam minus 10 cm" measurement for seat height. That's much simpler than the 1.08 or whatever factors. Now I'll have to see how all of these compare.
1:35
World : bike Grease for lubrification
India : Nahh coconut oil works fine 👍👍
Thank you. Honestly I was struggling with the too high seat position until watching you video
Nice one bro. Can't wait to apply it to my bike tomorrow (it's currently evening here in cebu, Philippines).. :D
Good luck!
Pasikat mga tao dito e ang tataas ng seat height kamo
It is best to start fitting feet to the pedal. The transverse metatarsal arch (depression behind the ball of the foot) needs to be over the pedal spindle. There are no down sides to having the foot too far forward on the pedal but injuries are possible with the foot too far back. Start with the foot forward on the pedal and adjust back if necessary. Then measure your inseam to high into your crutch without shoes. 1.09 times the inseam measurement will be close to the pedal to top of seat measurement with the pedal at furtherest point from the seat. There are no down sides to having the seat a little too low but both comfort and injury problems with the seat too high. Start a little low and adjust higher with mm increments. Forward and back adjustment of the seat is also important. Start all the way to the rear and adjust forward 2 mm increments.
Simple and spot on explanation👍....
Makes great sense to adjust a saddle that resembles 10 inches of 2 x4 up on edge. You might as well have someone teach you how to smoke.
thank u.. very informative specially to newbies like me...
Glad it was helpful!
The rough set up is ok. I set the seat for the top of the position,12 o'clock position . Then I set crank length for the bottom of the stroke. Correct top position is where you get your maximum power from.
10 CM = 4 inches for those using an imperial tape measure.
@@khc8800 after measuring with the book need to substract 10 cm
I respect those stuck in imperial, but world should go metrical. So much easier. Glad I adapted well.
@@rafaeluhu as an engineer I agree, but unfortunately Americans don't like change.
the man is in the usa.. Say Inches. Bike makers use CM... thats nice... but youre talking to americans. say inches.
@@thatsthewayitis1 UA-cam is an international platform. This is going out to the whole world, not just US citizens, so it makes sense to use metric anyway.
This is the best explanation of any information I have inquired about. Thank you.
I see so many cyclist with their saddle too high! Their cadence is too low and they are swaying side to side just to reach the bottom of the pedal stroke! 🤦♂️.
Indeed its a common mistake that gets overlooked because it looks and feels more advanced than having a low seat!
Great explanation... Hopefully I will get a better result of saddle height on my foldie... Tq bro...
All the best
The best way is the old way.forget tape measure and just set the height of your seat,level with your handle bars.job done.
That would be ok for old ladies and vicars
Excellent procedure that is easy to use and remember. THANK YOU 👍
You bet!
UPDATE: Thank you everyone for the positive feedback! I'm glad this video has been helpful 🙂
Here's some answers to some of your frequently asked questions:
1) This is just an unscientific, ballpark method to set your *approximate* seat height. I used to work at a bike shop and we'd do this before sending customers out on test rides. Everyone has different anatomy and conditions, and the method may not work for you. For a proper bike fit assessment, visit a professional fitter in your area.
2) Safety first. I never advise anyone to ride a bike where their feet can't touch the floor. If you're experiencing this issue, your frame may be too large. If you're experiencing this issue, lower your seat until you can comfortably rest both feet on the floor. Then if you're still not satisfied, visit a professional fitter in your area. Happy riding!
all day searching, thank god i find this video. The heel technique amazing.
Lovely... this video explains everything. Extra brownies to you buddy :)
Cool man, I have always wondered if there was a correct way of doing this. Thank you
I loved the fact he’s using an old school bike. This vid is free of product placement.
after listening to/ viewing many videos, I finally found a good one. keep it up mate
thanks!
Hey Reggie, thank you for the great video. I am just learning how to ride a bike so I don't feel comfortable to have my saddle that high (yet). However, I have another related question: sometimes when I ride for an hour or so I feel like the blood circulation is limited just where the body is pressed against the thinner part of the saddle. It does hurt after a while... Is this normal? (Please keep in mid my saddle is a bit lower than it should be, and I am a real beginner). Many thanks in advance.
Hi Chemirina, that should be fine to set it lower if you're not feeling comfortable. For the seat, you will always feel some pressure but if you're losing circulation it could be many things: your seat shape, the seat setback (how far forward or back it is) and the angle or tilt of the seat. Its hard to say without seeing anything in person, so I'd recommend taking it to a bike shop and asking for help with the fit. I also have some new fitting videos coming soon so stay tuned!
They make seats with a long groove down the center to prevent this pressure point. Highly recommend.
Be careful if you’re feeling like circulation is limited. Years ago, an avid cyclist friend caused damage to his testicles from pressure due to improper bike seat. Agree with other writer that you should seek help from pros at a good bike shop.
I realize this is an old post, so it’s probably not going to be helpful. Hope you have it all happily worked out! Happy biking!
@@russelloppenheimer3970
Yes, the ball trench is especially popular with...well...nuts 🤭
I've always favoured setting the seat to a mid position, front to back then set the seat so the leg is straight when the heel is on the pedal with a thin heel. Then move the foot to 3 o clock and slide saddle until the knee is over the spindle with the ball of the foot over the spindle. Best to set both cranks the same way to do this. Ps brooks saddle plus point 😊
Anyone in 2024
Good video, easy instructions for seat height… One small thing, toward the end when you’re talking about "increments" you have it misspelled on the banner on the screen…
Great vid- Short, sweet and to the point!
Glad you liked it!