Basic Road Bicycle Seat Height Setup
Step 1
Obtain leg-length measurement
Technique
✓ Standing in bare feet place a book up against your groin.
✓ Try and replicate the same amount of pressure you feel whilst on your seat.
✓ Measure the distance from the floor to the top edge of the book (in-seam measurement)
Technique A
Le Mond method
Technique
✓ Measure the distance (in line with the seat post) from the top of the seat to the crank mid-point.
✓ Multiply Step 1 measurement x Technique A measurement to obtain correct seat height.
Example: Step 1 height (82cm) x Technique A height (0.88) = 72.16 cm
Technique B
Le Mond method
Technique
✓ Turn the crank to the 6 o’clock (bottom) position.
✓ Measure the distance (in line with the seat post) from the top of the seat to the pedal mid-point.
✓ Multiply Step 1 measurement x Technique B measurement to obtain correct seat height.
Example: Step 1 height (82cm) x Technique B height (1.09) = 89.38 cm
Note
Other factors that may influence your position on the bike
- Seat fore/aft position, Cleat position & thickness, Crank length
- Arm reach length, Leg and Lower Back flexibility
- Rider experience: Sports cyclist vs Recreational cyclist
Always seek the assistance of a professional if uncertain.