Saddle Adjustment
A properly adjusted saddle is crucial: your leg should be almost straight with your heel on the bottom pedal.
A horizontal seat prevents you from sliding forward or creating pressure points.
How can you make your electric bike comfortable for long distances?
Making an electric bike comfortable for long distances means that everything has to be just right: your posture, your bike, and even your clothing. There is no magic setting, but rather a multitude of small adjustments that, together, make a big difference. I'll explain this based on my own experience and what works for me on long rides.
Written by: Hanna Stevens | December 29, 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
- Comfort starts with proper adjustment: Correct posture, the right saddle height, and well-positioned handlebars are more important than any accessory.
- Small adjustments add up to a big difference: tires, handles, saddle, suspension, and luggage distribution all work together as a whole. Every detail counts.
- A comfortable electric bike makes long rides more enjoyable and relaxing: less pain, less battery stress, and more fun on the road make you want to ride farther and more often.
Table of contents
How to adopt the correct posture when cycling?
Why are touchpoints so important?
What role do tires play tires comfort?
Why is it better to carry your belongings on your bike rather than on your back?
How can you increase your independence and comfort?
What clothes make long outings more enjoyable?
How to adopt the correct posture when cycling?
Good posture allows your body to remain relaxed, even after several hours of cycling. It all starts with how you sit on the bike.
How to properly adjust your saddle and handlebars?
Saddle height
This is the most important adjustment of all. Is your saddle too low? You'll put excessive strain on your knees. Is your saddle too high? Your pelvis will rock from side to side. Read more about the best way to adjust your saddle.
Simple test
Sit on the saddle and place your heel on the pedal in the lowest position. Your leg should then be almost completely straight. If you pedal with the front of your foot, you will automatically achieve a slight bend in your knee of around 25 to 30 degrees.
Saddle position and tilt
The saddle should ideally be horizontal. If the front of the saddle points upward, you will feel pressure and discomfort. If it points downward, you will slide forward and put too much weight on your arms. You can also move the saddle slightly forward or backward. Ideally, your knee should be just above the pedal when the crank is horizontal.
Handlebar adjustment
A higher handlebar position relieves pressure on your back, neck, and wrists. Also, make sure to keep your elbows slightly bent: this will help your body absorb shocks better.
Why are touchpoints so important?
Because that's where all your weight rests. Your hands, pelvis, and feet are in constant contact with the bike. The following elements are essential:
1. The saddle
- A saddle supports up to 70% of your body weight.
- Too flexible may seem comfortable, but often isn't.
- You sink into it → pressure points appear
It is better to:
- A firm saddle
- Wide enough for your sit bones
- Possibly with gel or memory foam
2. Handles
- Standard handles are often round and hard.
- They can compress the nerves.
- Result: numb or tingling fingers
Ergonomic handles offer:
- Wide palm support
- Better pressure distribution
- Less wrist pain
3. The pedals
Wide platform-style pedals:
- Provide greater stability
- Keep the foot in place better
- Reduce foot fatigue
What role do tires play tires comfort?
The tires your primary shock absorbers. They determine whether the bike is rigid or flexible. Ensure that the pressure is correct. Overinflated: you feel every bump. Underinflated: more resistance and a battery that drains faster.
Landmarks:
| Bike type | tires pressure tires |
|---|---|
| City bike | 40–65 PSI |
| Fat bike | 20–30 PSI |
A slightly lower pressure provides greater comfort, as long as you stay within the recommended values.
Which tires the most comfortable?
If your framework allows it:
- Choose tires (45–60 mm or more)
- More air = more cushioning
- Better grip on uneven surfaces such as cobblestones
Why is it better to carry your belongings on your bike rather than on your back?
Because a heavy backpack puts unnecessary strain on your body. I tested it myself: after an hour, I felt like I had been moving house all day. It is better to carry the load on your bike. Distribute the weight evenly to prevent the bike from pulling to one side. Use panniers, as they offer several advantages:
- Lower center of gravity = greater stability
- No sweaty back
- Less strain on the shoulders and neck
How can you increase your independence and comfort?
Less battery stress means more relaxation while cycling.
Use assistance wisely
- Low mode on flat terrain
- Higher mode when facing the wind or climbing
- Maximum continuous assistance consumes a lot of energy.
The right pace
- Ideal: 70 to 90 revolutions per minute
- Pedaling too "heavily" leads to: higher fuel consumption, more effort, and greater strain on the knees.
Maintenance also counts
- Clean chain
- Properly lubricated
- Brakes that do not rub
What clothes make long outings more enjoyable?
What you wear is, in a way, an extension of your bike. Opt for cycling shorts: they reduce friction and provide extra cushioning. Also wear shoes with stiff soles and, in cold weather, gloves.
Conclusion
Comfort on an electric bike depends on the collaboration between you and your bike. Think of it as a single system: if the bike doesn't fit your body, you'll be working against each other instead of moving forward together.
An electric bike that is poorly adjusted for long distances is like walking in shoes that are too small. You may reach your destination, but you will be in pain and won't enjoy the ride.A well-adjusted bike, on the other hand, is like a pair of perfectly fitting hiking boots: you almost forget you're wearing them... and before you know it, you've covered far more miles than you expected.
And honestly? That's exactly why we love long rides so much.
Long-Distance E-Bike Comfort
How can you optimize your bike to ride farther and without pain?
Saddle & Handles
Choose a firm saddle and ergonomic handles to distribute weight more evenly.
Ergonomic handles prevent tingling in the fingers.
Pressure & Width
tires (45-60 mm) better absorb road irregularities.
Adjust the pressure: overinflation tires the body, underinflation drains the battery.
Messenger bags vs. Backpacks
Transfer the load to the bike. A heavy backpack puts unnecessary strain on your shoulders.
The panniers lower the center of gravity for better stability.
Effort Management
Maintain a cadence of 70-90 rpm to protect your knees and the battery.
Adjust the assistance: low mode on flat terrain, higher when facing the wind.
Adapted Equipment
Good cycling shorts reduce friction and provide extra cushioning.
Wear shoes with rigid soles for better transmission.
FAQ
Is a more comfortable electric bike necessarily more expensive?
No. Comfort depends mainly on the settings, not the price. An expensive electric bike that is poorly adjusted may be less comfortable than a simpler model that is perfectly suited to your body.
Do you have to fix everything at once to feel a difference?
No. Even a small adjustment can make a big difference: saddle height, ergonomic grips, or tires lower tires pressure. You'll often feel the effect on your next ride.
Why does the pain only appear after a longer distance?
Because small mistakes add up. Poor posture may not bother you at first, but after 20 or 30 kilometers, your body no longer has time to recover and starts to protest.
Is a very flexible position always better for long distances?
Not necessarily. Too soft can even become uncomfortable: if you sink in too much, pressure points appear. Firm support with the right shape is generally more comfortable in the long run.
Can you ride long distances without specific cycling clothing?
Yes, it's possible, but it will be less comfortable. Cycling shorts, good shoes, and gloves make the difference between "getting through it" and really enjoying your ride.