How High Should My Bicycle Seat Be?

Choosing the correct height for your saddle is key to rider comfort.

Too Small Can Be Uncomfortable

Experts at Rivendell Bicycle Works bemoan the trend of riders choosing bikes that are too small for them. They say, as a general rule, riders should take their pubic height (distance from the floor to the pubic bone) and subtract 10 centimeters to obtain the perfect saddle height.

BMX Riders Like It Low

For BMX owners, cycling long distances is not a primary concern. In fact, as their main aim is to carry out stunts and ride quickly, a lower center of gravity is needed. As a result, their bicycle seats are on average far lower than those of their mountain bike cousins.

Bottom Line

There is a basic formula for how high your bicycle seat should sit. If you are not a BMX bike owner, this formula is the best indication of how your bike should be set up. Remember to measure the floor to your pubic bone before subtracting 10 centimeters to achieve greater comfort.

References

• Rivendell Bicycle Works: Choosing a Frame Size