Originally Posted by
brianmcg123
You should not be able to step flat footed on the ground while on the saddle if thats what this online person is stating.
You need to set the saddle height so you have proper extension when pedaling. The bike saddle is not for sitting when the bike is stopped. When you stop you get off the saddle.
No offense to your motorcycle safety course friend but they don't sound like they know much about bicycling.
A picture of your bike and you on it would help.
+1
Only "crank-forward" and (semi) Recumbent bikes will allow good leg extension while pedalling AND flat-footed ground contact from the same position. Only reaching the ground with your toes is perfectly normal for a vast majority of riders.
Don't worry about THAT.
However, if you have the saddle all the way down, I don't think its the best bike for you. Having to bring the saddle all the way down often makes the bike feel very long.
I see two options for you:
1) empirical
Sounds like you got a decently enjoyable first ride. Even if the fit is weird, it can't be all wrong. Keep the bike and keep riding.
2) return the bike, shop for another bike someplace else. Maybe a 24" - if properly fitted - would have been even better.
Maybe the gearing was totally wrong for you. Maybe..something.