What is the ideal seat post height for a Trek Madone 9.8?

[joefriday]

The age-old debate about seat post height has been ongoing for years, and as a recent purchaser of the Trek Madone 9.8, Im eager to hear your thoughts on this topic. Given the frames design and intended use case, Ive been experimenting with different seat post heights to find the sweet spot that balances comfort, power output, and aerodynamics.

While many pro riders and bike fitters swear by the conventional wisdom of setting the seat height so that the leg is almost fully extended at the bottom of the pedal stroke, Im starting to think that this might not be the most optimal approach for the Madone 9.8. With its unique frame design and emphasis on aerodynamics, Im wondering if a slightly lower seat post height could actually provide better performance benefits.

For instance, a lower seat post height could potentially reduce the frontal area of the rider, leading to reduced air resistance and improved overall aerodynamics. Additionally, a lower seat post height could also lead to a more aggressive riding position, which might be beneficial for shorter, more intense efforts.

That being said, Im well aware that this approach could also lead to reduced comfort and increased strain on the lower back and knees. So, Id love to hear your thoughts on this topic - do you think a lower seat post height could be beneficial for the Madone 9.8, or do you think the conventional wisdom still holds true? What are your experiences with different seat post heights, and how have you found them to impact your performance and comfort?

 

[guitarist3932]

A lower seat post height may indeed offer aerodynamic advantages, but it could also compromise power output and comfort. Have you considered a compromise, such as a slightly lower height for time trials or sprints, and a higher height for longer rides? It's all about striking the right balance for your individual needs and riding style.

 

[Steve_in_NH]

While many may cling to the conventional wisdom of seat post height, I must respectfully disagree. The idea that a nearly fully extended leg at the bottom of the pedal stroke is the ideal setup lacks nuance and overlooks individual variations in rider physiology and pedaling style. For the Trek Madone 9.8, I'd recommend experimenting with a slightly lower seat post height, focusing on a comfortable, powerful, and efficient pedal stroke tailored to your unique needs.

 

[StefE]

A lower seat post height, you say? Could it be that you're on to something here? D) I've seen a few daredevils give it a go, and they do seem to slice through the wind like a hot knife through butter. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility. And by power, I mean the potential to put excessive strain on your knees and back. So, before you go all in, consider your riding style and the course ahead. After all, you wouldn't want to trade aerodynamics for a world of pain, would you? ()

 

[granda]

A lower seat post height can indeed offer aerodynamic benefits, but it may sacrifice comfort and increase strain on knees and back. Have you considered a compromise, such as a lower front and higher rear end? This can reduce frontal area while maintaining comfort. It's all about striking a balance between power, aerodynamics, and comfort.

 

[ess17]

A lower seat post height may improve aerodynamics, but it can also increase strain on knees and back. Conventional wisdom has merit, as full leg extension aids power output. Have you considered a compromise - a slightly lower height that still allows for comfortable, efficient pedaling? Don't sacrifice function for form.

 

[StefE]

Hey, you're right about that compromise on seat post height. Been there, done that. I tried lowering it a bit for aerodynamics, but yeah, the strain on knees and back is real. Conventional wisdom ain't wrong here - full leg extension does help with power output.

So, here's my take: don't compromise. Either go all-in with a full-on aero position, or stick to what works - comfortable, efficient pedaling. This in-between thing? It's like having your cake and eating it too, but ending up with a tummy ache.

I've seen folks trying to split the difference, and more often than not, they're not fully committed to either goal. It's like they're riding with the brakes on, and that's just no way to ride. If you wanna be fast, commit to the aero position. If you wanna stay comfy, then keep your seat post at a height where you can pedal efficiently without strain.

Remember, there are no shortcuts in cycling. It's all about putting in the work, making choices, and committing to them.

 

[guitarist3932]

Word, full leg extension for power, no in-between. Aero position or comfort, make a choice and go for it. Half-assing ain't riding, it's like having one foot in the clip and the other on the brakes. You feel me? It's all about commitment and putting in the work, no shortcuts. #cyclingslang #nodrama

 

[joefriday]

You’re all about that full leg extension, huh? Let's be real—it's a trade-off. What about those times when you’re out there grinding? A slight drop in seat height could open a whole new world for aggressive climbs or sprints. What if that position lets you stay in the zone longer without feeling it in your back? Have you actually tried it? Curious how that played out for folks on the Madone 9.8. Got any real-world numbers?