Using a goniometer to measure knee angle

[Presto]

I can go by feel, but wanted to get a little closer to optimum 'cause I need all the help I can get climbing .

"Feel" is optimum. One person's optimum is another person's agony. Fred's optimum might be 37 degrees for max output, while Fredwina's optimum might be 43 degrees for max output. (pain decreases output, too) If I set either at 40 degrees and told them it was perfect, they'd be back at the shop in a week and unhappy with me.

The most important goniometric measurement was the one you had with the coach, which showed your current angle well outside the 35-45 degree range. You raised your saddle, and felt the good power change. You needed to raise the saddle and you felt the improvement when you did. Now you just need to fiddle with it so you aren't irritating your knee. Where your saddle actually ends up is determined by your unique body.

Trust yourself. You can do this!