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Overview:
This project will show you how to install and adjust a bike seat. Bike rides are no fun if you can not sit comfortably. Trade in your hard-as-a-rock seat for cushy comfort. Then adjust it so you can pedal with maximum efficiency.
Materials:
bicycle seat (called a "saddle")
Tools You'll Need:
6" or 8" adjustable wrench, hex key set, 6-in-1 interchangeable screwdriver
Before You Begin:
Determine what type of seat post you have. There are single-bolt and two-bolt varieties. Make sure the threads on your seat post are greased.
Barbara's Tips:
If you have pain in the front of your knee when pedaling, your seat may be too low. Pain in the back of your knee may mean your seat is too high. And remember: Always wear a helmet when riding a bike!
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Step 1: Install the Seat
To install your seat on a single-bolt post, loosen the bolt most of the way, turn the clamp to a 90 degree angle and fit the seat on to the rails. Turn the clamp back to level and tighten the bolt just enough so that the seat stays in place. For a two-bolt seat, remove one of the bolts, slide the seat on to the grooves and re the bolt. Tighten both bolts just enough to hold the seat in place.
Step 2: Fix the Fit
Your seat should be high enough that your leg is perfectly straight when your heel rests on the pedal. Initially, you should adjust the seat so that it is level. After you have had a chance to try out the new seat, you may want to adjust the tilt slightly upward or downward for more comfort. Adjust the seat forward and back so when the pedal is at three o'clock, your kneecap is directly over the center of the pedal. When the seat is arranged to your satisfaction, tighten the bolts. Don't over tighten a quarter turn at a time keeps the seat in position. If you have a two-bolt seat, alternate back and forth between the two bolts until the seat is tight.
Step 3: Hit the Road
Hop on and take your bike for a spin. Fine-tune the positioning for maximum comfort.
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