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