Silly question time...saddle level...
 

What's the best way to ensure your saddle is level (using an actual level...) if you don't know for sure the surface the bike is standing on is level? I guess it involves summing/subtracting the difference between the floor and saddle?

Use your level to check the surface 1st, proceed.

-Bandera

That's what a figgerd once the coffee fully kicked in...!

Rather than using an real spirit level you can use the level utility in the iPhone compass app. Get a reading, then reverse the bike and get a second reading. The difference between the two is the actual level. Even without the complication of checking on a non-flat floor I like it better. If your saddle works best at +4 degrees you can easily return it to +4 degrees.

And then you will probably find that something other than exactly level is most comfortable.

Yes, while level is a good starting point, it is not sacrosanct. Saddle tilt is something you adjust strictly on what makes you balanced on the bike and feel most comfortable - there is no right/wrong. And as a starting point, while using a level is certainly fine, eyeball is plenty good enough.

- Mark

Exactly. Saddle tilt is ultimately determined by rider comfort, not a level.

Agree with what others said about level not being the final position, mine are just slightly nose up from level.

Also, "level" depends on your seat - does a level nose equal level, if your saddle rises in the back? I would start from nose level, and then tweak it a couple degrees up or down on a few rides, see what feels most comfortable.

Cheers

Thanks all. I do prefer a flat saddle and I absolute hate unintentionally sliding forward...great tip on the iPhone compass app.

Put it in a work stand and use a level long enough to reach from the front QR to the back one.

seems mine is a trifle nose up .. YMMV