LeMond Method

Saddle Height Calculator

A correct bike fit starts with your saddle. Use the industry-standard LeMond method to find your starting point.

Saddle Height Calculator (LeMond Method)

Inseam Length

Units

How to measure: Stand barefoot with your back against a wall. Place a book between your legs as high as comfortable (mimicking a saddle). Measure from the top of the book to the floor.

Why Saddle Height Matters

Incorrect saddle height is the most common cause of cycling knee injuries. Both extremes are damaging.

Too low

Compresses your knee joint (patellofemoral compression), losing power and risking injury.

Too high

Overextension causes your hips to rock and strains your hamstrings and lower back.

The LeMond Method

Developed by three-time Tour de France winner Greg LeMond and his coach Cyrille Guimard. Calculates saddle height as a fixed percentage of inseam.

Inseam (cm) × 0.883 = Saddle Height (cm)

Measured from center of bottom bracket to top of saddle, along the seat tube.

How to Measure Your Inseam

Do not use your trouser inseam. Cycling inseam is measured from the floor to your pubic bone.

Stand barefoot on a hard floor with your back against a wall.

Place a hardback book (or a level) between your legs, with the spine facing up.

Pull the book up firmly into your crotch, mimicking the pressure of sitting on a saddle.

Mark the top of the book on the wall (or have a friend measure).

Measure the distance from the floor to the top of the book.

Fine Tuning Your Fit

The LeMond method is a starting point, not a universal law. You may need to adjust by ±5–10mm based on:

Cleat Position

If your cleats are further back, you may need a slightly lower saddle.

Pedal/Shoe Stack Height

Thicker soles or pedals might require adjustments.

Flexibility

Riders with tight hamstrings often prefer a slightly lower saddle.

Crank Length

If you use shorter cranks (e.g., 165mm vs 172.5mm), you will need to raise your saddle to compensate.