How do you determine the ideal height of your saddle?
The perfect saddle height allows your knee to remain slightly bent when the pedal is down. Your leg should never be fully extended. This simple rule prevents injury and makes cycling much more enjoyable.
Written by : Hanna Stevens | 24 november 2025 | Reading time: 4 minutes
More about the author: Hanna Stevens
Hanna is an avid cyclist who loves exploring new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire others to get on their bikes more often.
Key findings
- The right saddle height prevents injury and increases your comfort and pedaling power: a slightly bent knee at the low point is the basis of a healthy and efficient position.
- First calculate, then refine: LeMond, 109% and the Fietsersbond rule of thumb provide a good basis, but small adjustments of 2-3 mm can change everything.
- Always listen to your body: formulas help, but pain or discomfort are clear signals to adjust, or consult a professional.
Table of contents
Why is the right saddle height so important?
What method should you use to calculate the height of your saddle?
How to recognize a badly adjusted saddle?
How to adjust the height of your saddle?
Don't forget the horizontal position
When should you seek professional help?
Why is the right saddle height so important?
A well-tuned saddle makes the difference between pain-free pedaling and developing chronic discomfort. Here's why:
Comfort and health
- Avoid saddle, knee and back pain
- Your joints are not overworked
- Your muscles work optimally
Improved performance
- You pedal more efficiently
- You apply more power
- You tire less quickly
A badly adjusted saddle? You'll immediately feel it in your knees, back or shoulders. Read our guide to perfectly adjusting the rest of your bike.
What method should you use to calculate the height of your saddle?
First, you need your crotch length. Measure the distance from the floor to your crotch, standing up straight. Use a book between your legs for an accurate measurement.
1. LeMond / ANWB method
- inseam length × 0.883 = distance from bottom bracket axle to top of saddle
- The most frequently used method
- Provides excellent results for recreational cyclists
2. Hamley & Thomas method (109%)
- Inseam length × 1.09 = distance between saddle and pedal axle
- Measure with crank aligned with seat tube
- Very popular with sport cyclists
3. Fietsersbond rule of thumb
- Inseam length × 1.08 = seat height (saddle to pedal at bottom)
- Quick and easy
- An excellent starting point for further refinement
The heel method: a quick check
It's not an exact science, but it's a good first guess. Here's how it works:
- Sit on your saddle
- Place the crank vertically downwards
- Place your heel on the pedal
- If your leg stretches comfortably, it's a good sign.
- Your toes should just touch the floor when you're sitting down.
The Holmes method for those who want to be precise
This method analyzes the angle of the knee. Use a goniometer or have your profile photographed:
- Optimum knee angle: 25 to 35° (pedal down)
- In case of knee pain: stay close to 25°.
- Too tight: angle > 35°? Lower the saddle
- Too bent: angle < 25°? Raise the saddle
How to recognize a badly adjusted saddle?
Your body is sending clear signals. Here's what you can see:
| Problem | How you feel | What you see |
|---|---|---|
| Saddle too high | Swaying hips, knee pain due to overextension, numb feet | Knee angle > 35°, leg almost straight |
| Saddle too low | Heavy legs, rapid fatigue, back or knee pain, lack of power | Knee angle < 25°, feet flat, knees well up |
How to adjust the height of your saddle?
Take your tools and proceed calmly - rushing leads to mistakes.
What you need
- Flat wrench or Allen key
- Tape measure
- Possibly a goniometer
Steps
- Measure your current situation: Note the distance from the pedal axle to the top of the saddle (crank down). This is your reference measurement.
- Loosen the clamp: Loosen the screw on the chain side or open the quick-release clamp. On some bikes, you need to loosen the saddle carriage on the post.
- Set the new height: Slide the saddle to the calculated height. Check that the seatpost does not exceed the maximum mark.
- Tighten firmly: Make sure everything is tight - a slipping saddle can be dangerous.
- Test in small steps: Adjust in 2-3 mm increments. After each modification, drive for at least 15 minutes to feel the difference.
Don't forget the horizontal position
Saddle height is just one element. The horizontal position (setback) is just as important.
The plumb line test
- Position pedals horizontally
- Suspend a plumb bob from your front knee
- The wire must pass exactly through the center of the pedal axle
- Otherwise: move the saddle forward or back slightly
When should you seek professional help?
Some situations require an expert. Consult a good bike shop if you :
- Continue to feel pain despite adjustments
- Buy a new frame
- Switch to a sporty road bike
- Have serious knee or back problems
Modern stores use computer-aided measuring systems and body scans. They analyze your whole body and your driving position. Very useful if you ride a lot.
The golden rule: listen to your body
All formulas are just tools. It's how you feel that counts. Cycling should be comfortable, never painful.
Start with one method, test, adjust until you reach the perfect position. And remember: small changes can make a big difference. Happy trails!
FAQ
How do I measure my inseam length correctly?
Stand barefoot against a wall, feet shoulder-width apart. Wedge a book firmly against your crotch, like a saddle. Measure the distance between the floor and the top of the book: this is your crotch length.
What method should I use to calculate my saddle height?
Use your inseam length and choose a method as a starting point:
LeMond / ANWB: length × 0.883 (bottom bracket axle → top of saddle)
Hamley & Thomas (109%): length × 1.09 (saddle → pedal axle)
Fietsersbond: length × 1.08 (saddle → pedal down)
Then fine-tune according to how you feel.
How do I know if my saddle is too high or too low?
- Too high: shifting hips, almost tense knees, numb feet, pain from over-extension.
- Too low: heavy legs, rapid fatigue, high knees, back or knee pain, feeling of lacking power.
Do I only need to adjust the height or also the position of the saddle?
Not just the height: the horizontal position counts too. Use the plumb line test to check that your knee reaches the center of the pedal axle when the pedals are horizontal. If not, move the saddle forward or back slightly.
When should you consult a professional about bikefitting?
If you experience persistent pain, buy a new (or sporty) frame, ride a lot of kilometers or already have knee or back problems. A bike shop equipped with measuring systems can optimize your entire posture.