Originally Posted by cyccommute
Your saddle should be set high enough that there is a slight bend to your knee when you hit the bottom of the pedal stroke. You shouldn't be rocking your hips to reach the pedal either. Don't try to set the height in huge jumps but use smaller adjustments...around 1/4" at a time. Also be aware that when you pedal, most people tend to pedal with their toes down. This means that the saddle needs to be slightly higher than you might think.
OK...definitely headed in that direction with the +1 inch seat height adjustment I made.
I'm assuming that you are riding pedals without cleats or toe clips (you being a newbie and all
). If so, that's one of the reasons that your thighs are so rubbery.
Correct, and, point taken.
You are working the tops of you legs but not the backs. With pedals that allow you to attach your feet to the pedals, you get your butt muscles and the backs of the thighs into the action and don't over stress your quads.
Plus, you just need to ride. It really helps. Today, you think that a 7 mile ride will kill you. Tomorrow, you'll wonder why it was so difficult. Keep plugging at it. It gets better...says the guy who hasn't been off a bike for any significant time since 1982
Yeah. I know I sound like I'm complaining about the 'pain,' but after every ride, I know that at least I'm finally getting some exercise again, so it's all good.
