Originally Posted by
PatrickGSR94
Don't stay on the saddle while stopped. In most cases a proper saddle height means you can't touch the ground very easily, if at all, while seated. Move forward off the saddle when stopping. Then use the "power pedal" technique to get started and simultaneously lift yourself up, and slide back onto the saddle. It's much harder on the knees and other joints and muscles to try to get moving from a stop while seated on the saddle.
Originally Posted by
GovernorSilver
I don't think you should judge saddle height by whether you can reach the ground with your feet when stopped.
I find it easier to dismount the saddle and stand with both feet on the ground when I have to stop. I found this video very helpful for developing a smooth technique for stopping, then starting again. Granted, I am a platform pedaler - not sure what additional technique you may have to utilize if you ride clipless.
Starting and Stopping
I have seen fellow cyclists ride in meandering circles in front of cars because they don't want to detach their cleats from their clipless pedals while waiting for the red light. Looks risky to me.
Originally Posted by
PatrickGSR94
I use that exact method. Both LCI's and CyclingSavvy instructors teach it. Only difference with cleats is that your foot that stays clipped in (your "power pedal" foot) can simply lift up into position, instead of using your foot to turn the cranks backwards slightly.
And I see she is using the same HubBub mirror I use!
Yeah, well I have the seat at its maximum height, it seemed close enough, then I discovered when I rode that I could only just reach -- and I left it at that. I usually do move off the seat if I'm going to be stopped a while.
For now I've just got the stock pedals: platform style ones. I'll look at putting cages on them shortly though.
Originally Posted by
noglider
Looks like your bike is flame powered, like the Batmobile!
Heh, when I first started the lighting project on my bike (years ago, before the top box, etc) I had the rear light controlled by a single switch near the handlebar. One of my work colleagues kept trying to tell people it was a "nitro switch".