9
8. Adjusting the bike to the rider
Verify that the seat clamp is sufficiently tight
by taking hold of the saddle at both ends and
trying to rotate the seat post inside the seat
tube. If you can rotate it, you must increase
the clamping force and repeat the test.
Does the leg stretch test now produce the right
result? Check by moving your foot and pedal
to the lowest point. If the ball of your foot is
exactly above the pedal centre (ideal pedal-
ling position) your knee must be slightly bent.
If this is the case, you have adjusted the sad-
dle height correctly.
Check whether you can still reach the ground
safely with your feet while sitting on the sad-
dle. If not, you should lower the saddle a little,
at least to begin with.
The position of the saddle is very individual.
Contact your MERIDA dealer and let him help
you find the best position for you.
If sitting causes you trouble e.g.
because it numbs your crotch, this may
be due to the saddle. Your MERIDA dealer
has a very wide range of saddles available
and will be pleased to advise you.
With some mountain bikes, such as
e.g. the dirt jump bikes, it is sensible
to lower the saddle a little for some riding
manoeuvres. A lower saddle is advisable
in particular for riding steep descents with
the mountain bike. Longer rides with a too
low saddle may, however, lead to knee joint
pain.
