The physio and bike fitter's guide to setting your saddle height

How to adjust your bike seat height and know when you’ve got it right - eliminate pain and get the most from your body

Female cyclist adjusting her bike saddle height
(Image credit: Anna Marie Hughes)

Setting the correct saddle height on your bike is essential for comfort, efficiency, performance and to avoid injury, which will ultimately allow you to ride longer and push harder.

Not only is it important to choose a bike saddle that's right for you (the best bike saddle varies from rider to rider as we're all built a little differently), finding the optimum saddle height is the foundation of setting up your bike, whether that's with a bike fitter or as part of a DIY bike fit at home.

Nicole Oh racing
Nic Oh

Nicole Oh is a physiotherapist and bike fitter, with training in biomechanical assessments, sports injury rehabilitation, acupuncture and clinical pilates. She's an avid racer and lives in Sydney. 

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1