Originally Posted by Patriot
The saddle height formulas are basically a measuement from the center of the BB, straight up the seat tube to the top of the saddle directly above, regardless of how much setback is used.
Well, this is exactly what I'm talking about. Why be precise with a formula that leaves out 2 critical variables.
Those variables are far more important than you think. I know this because I have messed around with 170-180mm cranks. I can also tell you that a few cms difference in set-back has a bigger impact on saddle height than you think (distance in the X plane is not independent to distance in the y plane)
The biomechanics are what you need to be thinking about because that is really what matters. Try visualizing this stuff in your mind because that helps a lot when dialing this in. That and using your own feedback you notice when turning the pedals in a circle.
Retrogrouch was right when he also recommended someone get behind you to watch your hips (that can help detect too much ankling or downward pull by the pedals)
Just my two cents (as usual)