I just got a Trek 3700 WSD, 13 inches. I'm only 4'10 with short legs, and it was the closest we found that fit me. The problem I'm having now is that if the seat is low enough that I can get my toes on the ground in order to start and stop without falling over, my legs feel squished when I'm pedaling, and my knees hurt.
If I put the seat up a bit, it helps a lot, but then I have a hard time stopping and getting going again However, its true I haven't ridden a bike regularly for like 15 years or so (I'm 33), so I might just be clumsy.
I'm going to use the bike for short jaunts - mainly riding to the train station to commute downtown, and then around town.
It is the cutest little bike, and they put a bike rack on it and I bought a bag for it so I can cram all my work stuff or library books.
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Thread: New bike and ouch my knees!
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08-03-2008, 02:49 PM #1
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New bike and ouch my knees!
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08-03-2008, 03:00 PM #2
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Put the saddle up. Keep practicing. It gets easier.
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08-03-2008, 03:05 PM #3
Queen of All I Survey
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Are you trying to place both feet on the ground?
Don't.
One foot on the ground, the other on the pedal, push.
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08-03-2008, 03:11 PM #4
humidty makes me grouchy
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Getting on and off with the saddle higher will get easier. I'm helping my neighbor with this too.
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08-03-2008, 03:19 PM #5
listen to the bees
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Keep slowly raising the seat 1/2" or so every week until your leg goes *almost* straight when your pedal is at the low point in its circle. As you raise your seat you will notice less knee pain.
You're not supposed to be able to put both feet on the ground and still be sitting in your saddle. Even one foot should be tricky unless you have the bike tilted. You're supposed to move forward and off your seat with one foot on a pedal and the other foot coming down on the ground. When you are stopped, you should have one foot on the ground, the other on one pedal, and your crotch over the top tube, not on the saddle.
Practice will make it easier and easier. And the knee pain will be your motivation to get your saddle up where it belongs.
Don't give up!
Lisa
My mountain dulcimer network...FOTMD.com...and my mountain dulcimer blog
My personal blog:My blog
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08-03-2008, 04:01 PM #6
Danger: Chemist on Bike!
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That's a very cute bike. Everyone has great tips. It will get easier with time - just keep pedaling!
My bike is my Benz.
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08-03-2008, 03:16 PM #7
Inner Geekette
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And lift your butt onto the saddle as you push off. Don't try to sit on it first.
Originally Posted by SouthernBelle
Frends know gud humors when dey is hear it. ~ Da Crockydiles of ZZE.
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