Improve position

Some secrets

SizeMyBike will provide a good starting point, but to get a really perfect position, you will need to make minor adjustments. Here is our suggested methodology :

• Step 0 - Adjusting carefully your cleats is essential. The cleat should be positioned so the first metatarsal head lies directly over the pedal axle. If the outside of your knees hurts, point your toes a little more outward.
• Step 1 - seat position: the seat can be moved forward or backward. With crank arms horizontal, a plumb line dropping from the bottom of your kneecap should lead to the axe of the pedal.
• Step 2 - hop on the saddle. Ideally, at the bottom of a pedal stroke, you want to feel a slight bend in your knee. You should target within 80% or 90% of a full leg extension, not 100%. Drop to the 6-o'clock position and observe the angle at your knee joint. There should be a 25° to 30° flexion at the knee.
• Step 3 - stem length: with crank arms parallel to the diagonal tube, put your hands on the handlebar (hands position: on the drops). Your elbow must slightly touch your knee. Note that changing the stem is easy and not expensive.

This process is of course iterative.