If the persons hips are rocking from side too side. Does that generally mean that the saddle height is to high

Question

This would be watching them do this on a trainer. for dialing in the fit. Any input wanted.

Answer 1

Generally, yes, that's true.   However, some people who aren't very flexible will show hip-rocking when their saddle is set at the "proper" height based on their body dimensions.   This is due to having tight/shortened hamstrings.   If you can't touch your toes easily, then you'll need to start with a lower saddle height until you start to stretch out a bit over a period of months.   So, sometimes people can rock even when their saddle is at the correct height.....but usually it does mean that it's too high.  

If hips are rocking, you have a lot of "dialing" to do in setting up proper fit.   It's a base starting point....fine tuning the fore/aft positioning, cleat position on the shoe, and seat angle come later, along with handlebar/shifter positioning.  

Hope this helps some...

Answer 2

Yes.  

Some riders seem to like the saddle higher than others, but generally the less hip rocking, the better, IMO.

Answer 3

If the rider is not doing the casual side to side sway, Yes, the seat is too high. When watching the person are they extending their legs all the way or are they bent slightly at the bottom of the pedal stroke? If the legs don't have a slight bend then the seat needs adjusting.

Watch this for help:

http://bicycletutor.com/adjust-seat/

Answer 4

Yes, generally.

It wastes energy and the rider tires easily.  The ideal position would result with the legs being the only things moving.  The body should be upright and relatively still...no rocking, no swaying, no bouncing up and down.