Saddle height

[longitude]

Is there a correct difference in height between the saddle and handle bars? The saddle on my hybrid bike is about 2" higher than the handle bars and I find on longer rides my wrists ache and I wondered if it's the extra weight being thrown forward due to the height difference.

 

[Sharky]

There is no fixed rule, all individual preference. If you look at a pro rider, bars are usually much lower than saddle.

You could have a look at saddle placement and move it back a little. If you think of the pedals as being the central pivot, if are too far forward, weight will be taken by the arms. Moving back a bit takes a bit of weight off the arms.

But only make minor adjustments and use tape or perm ink to mark where original positions were.

Good luck,

Keith

 

[John the Canuck]

http://www.jimlangley.net/crank/bikefit.html

 

[Cycleops]

If you have your saddle set at the correct height it could be that the frame is too small for you. A 2" difference is normal on more aggressive racing machines but on a hybrid the style is rather more relaxed. A pic of you on the bike would help. Your leg should fully extended with pedal at six o'clock.

 

[flyingfish]

I like to have an athletic riding position. I found low bars & saddle back suits me
Pete

 

[cyberknight]

Is there a correct difference in height between the saddle and handle bars? The saddle on my hybrid bike is about 2" higher than the handle bars and I find on longer rides my wrists ache and I wondered if it's the extra weight being thrown forward due to the height difference.

Have you got bar ends ? a change of position can help and i am more comfortable with my wrists turned up rather than on flat bars .

 

[longitude]

Thanks for the helpful replies. I'll certainly try moving the saddle back and lower.

 

[ColinJ]

A pic of you on the bike would help. Your leg should fully extended with pedal at six o'clock.

Not quite fully extended - your leg should have a slight bend at the bottom of the pedal stroke.

 

[MickeyBlueEyes]

Not quite fully extended - your leg should have a slight bend at the bottom of the pedal stroke.

Agreed Colin. I have a bend of around 15 degrees through thigh and calf which is most comfortable for me.

 

[Markymark]

Easiest way is the heel method. Put your heel on the pedal and your leg should be straight when the pedal is at 6 o'clock. Then, when you put your foot to the correct position on the pedal (ball of foot on pedal), your knee will be slightly bent.