It's a personal preference thing and I think it really, really depends on comfort level and why you are riding. On my road bike, I am adjusted to optimal height and do fine, but I am not stopping as much as I am on my commuter, which is much lower to the ground. I started road riding on that bike and I still have to stop a TON of times in traffic in the city. Thus, it is much better to be able to get up/down quickly. I am also not clipped in. I have a short commute and where I ride/why I ride would make me uncomfortable. It's about really getting out there. If you are, I would be happy. And yes, a gradual adjustments can be a great thing. I did that with the commuter. It is taller now then it was when I started. Being happy and comfortable is more important that being at the perfect setting.