Wheel 1 on 1

How to Build a Road Bike Step 5, Installing your Saddle

 
This is Step 5 of a multi-part series on how to build a road bike.  There is a free eBook available that gives you instant access to the following:
  1. A FREE 43 page Full Color eBook – Available in PDF and iBook Format (iPhone/iPad)
  2. 15 FREE HD Step by Step Videos
  3. 110 FREE Full Color Pictures

NOTE*  All Park Tool pictures are courtesy of Park Tool.  Thank you Park Tool!

To download the free eBook and videos please visit www.flocycling.com/buildabike.php and enter your email address.
 
To see Step 1, Installing your Bottom Bracket click here.
To see Step 2, Installing your Crankset and Pedals click here.
To see Step 3, Installing your Fork, Stem and Handlebar click here.
To see Step 4, Hanging your Derailleurs click here.
 
Step 5 – Saddle
What you Need
Tools: 
  • Torque Wrench (TW-1 or TW-5)
  • Socket and Bit Set (SBS-1)
  • Hex Set (HXS-1.2) 
Tools
 
Parts: 
  • Saddle
Parts
 
Before you Get Started
  • Selecting the correct saddle can be a frustrating process.  Be sure to get an expert opinion from your local bike shop before purchasing a saddle.   
Installation


1.  Installing your saddle will more than likely be slightly different for everyone following this e-book.  This is because saddle clamps vary depending on what type of seat post you use.  Following the steps below and watching the accompanying video should ensure that you properly install your saddle.


2.  Loosen your saddle clamp on your seat post and insert the saddle rails (see Figure 1).

Figure 1


3.  Once your saddle is in the proper position, tighten the saddle clamp around the saddle rails using your hex tool (see Figure 2).

Figure 2

  


4.  Torque settings will typically depend on what type of rails your saddle has.  Be sure to check your saddle manufacturers recommendation (specifically for saddles with carbon fiber rails) and finish tightening with a torque wrench.


5.  You now have a properly installed saddle (see Figure 3).

Figure 3

This completes the installation of your saddle.

We hope you enjoyed this how to article.  For more great content, please register for our free monthly newsletter at the top of the column on the right.  We send links to all the articles we post during the month.

Jon Thornham