setup
Leather Saddle Adjustment Instructions
Saddle Adjustment Video
Saddle Setup Video from Selle Anatomica on Vimeo
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Height
Getting your saddle height right is an important part of a comfortable, efficient ride. There are several established methods for determining the ideal height, including the LeMond Method, but a simple visual check is a good place to start.
Have someone watch you pedal from behind during a short ride. If your hips rock from side to side, your saddle may be too high. Lower it gradually until the rocking stops. Just be careful not to go too low, as this can reduce pedaling efficiency and strain your knees.
For the best results, we recommend a professional bike fitting.
Setback
With your pedals positioned at 3 and 9 o'clock, imagine a vertical line extending from your forward kneecap to the front pedal axle. Aligning these points is one common starting point for determining saddle setback.
Move your saddle forward or backward as needed, but never position the seatpost clamp directly against the forward bend in the saddle rails. Leave at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of space between the clamp and the bend.
Tilt
Start with the nose of your saddle tilted slightly upward, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3–6 mm) above level.
Test your position by sitting upright in a safe, controlled setting. If you feel yourself sliding forward, try raising the nose slightly. The goal is to keep your weight comfortably supported by your sit bones while minimizing pressure on sensitive soft tissue.
Rotation
If you feel uneven pressure beneath one sit bone or discomfort along your groin or inner thigh, a slight adjustment to your saddle's rotation may help.
Differences in leg length or other aspects of your riding position can sometimes contribute to these pressure points. Try making small adjustments, about 1 degree at a time, and check how the saddle feels. If discomfort persists, consider consulting a professional bike fitter.
Tension
Your Selle Anatomica saddle arrives pre-tensioned, but the leather will naturally stretch and adapt as you ride. Because every piece of leather is different, some saddles need adjustment fairly early, while others may go longer before requiring additional tension.
What proper tension looks like
As your saddle breaks in, the leather should develop a gentle, hammock-like dip of approximately 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) when viewed from the side. You should sit in this hammock rather than on a tightly stretched, flat surface.
The small indentations in the leather help position your sit bones correctly. At the narrowest point toward the rear of the saddle slot, the two sides should be approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) apart.
How to adjust the tension
Use a 6 mm hex key to adjust the tension bolt:
- To tighten: Turn the bolt counterclockwise (reverse direction).
- To loosen: Turn the bolt clockwise (forward direction).
Make small adjustments and check the saddle's shape and slot width as you go.
When to adjust the tension
If the edges of the slot begin touching at the narrowest point and a raised ridge develops along one side, it's likely time to add tension. If the leather has sagged so far that you're contacting the seatpost beneath it, an adjustment is overdue.
Be careful not to overtighten. A saddle that appears flat when viewed from the side, or has a slot opening of approximately 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) at its narrowest point, is overtensioned.
Other Important Setup & Care Tips
Protecting Saddle Rails
Selle Anatomica's extended saddle rails give riders plenty of flexibility to find a comfortable position, but proper installation is important to help prevent bending, particularly with chromoly steel rails.
Always leave at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) between the front of your seatpost clamp and the forward bend in the rails. Never position the clamp directly against the bend.
One more important tip: Lift your weight off the saddle when riding over bumps or rough terrain. This helps reduce stress on the rails and protects your saddle over time.
Waterproofing Your Leather Saddle
Protecting your leather from moisture is an important part of keeping it in great condition.
Apply waterproofing treatment to the underside and exposed raw edges of your leather saddle. Selle Anatomica's WaterShed leather is already treated on the top surface, so there's no need to apply additional waterproofing there.
We recommend Saddle Sauce, although beeswax is also acceptable. Avoid Proofide, solvents, and silicone-based treatments, which can soften the leather.
For more detailed instructions, visit our Leather Saddle Care Guide.
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- Product Reviews
- Site Reviews
10/20/2026
William A.
United States
Just finished up a multiday bike packing trip with the X1 saddle. Great comfort and performance. Looking forward to may pleasant miles in this saddle.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
10/19/2026
Phillip
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09/28/2026
Gabe G.
United States
Having tried at least ten different bike saddles from many brands including some very expensive high end as well as noseless models, my quest has ended. A cycling friend told me about these (locally made) bike “seats”. I figured I’d check one out. My bike collection is a study in a 2-wheeler’s...Having tried at least ten different bike saddles from many brands including some very expensive high end as well as noseless models, my quest has ended. A cycling friend told me about these (locally made) bike “seats”. I figured I’d check one out. My bike collection is a study in a 2-wheeler’s hobby. Ranging from beach cruisers to gravel and MTB to touring, road and racing bikes in all materials: steel, Ti, CF, aluminum. As a lifelong 2-wheeler, I now appreciate the simplicity of a bike saddle that conforms to my body rather than vice-versa. The difference I felt was near immediate. The lack of perineal discomfort, the missing sit-bone pressure and the cradle-effect of this saddle made my 30 pound rack-mounted panniers seem to disappear as the training miles ticked by…
I plan to cross the USA using this setup and will report back once I return. Thanks Selle Anatomica for making these awesome bike saddles!!
H1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
09/15/2026
olga l.
Canada
this was my 4th Selle Anatomica and I still love riding on them - great comfort from the minute you mount it, with no breaking in required.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
09/15/2026
Tom G.
United States
I have had numerous leather saddles over the years which take many hours and months of riding to make them comfortable. This saddle was great on day one and is getting better after every ride. The flexibility provides comfort and allows you to settle immediately into a very effective riding...I have had numerous leather saddles over the years which take many hours and months of riding to make them comfortable. This saddle was great on day one and is getting better after every ride. The flexibility provides comfort and allows you to settle immediately into a very effective riding position. Highly recommended.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
09/14/2026
Eric J.
I have a lot of experience with saddles on various bikes, and the Sella Anatomica is my top choice, especially for long distances (100 miles+). I like the leather one on my randonneur bike (I noticed that's what my rando buddies were riding), so I bought a rubber one for my touring bike. No...I have a lot of experience with saddles on various bikes, and the Sella Anatomica is my top choice, especially for long distances (100 miles+). I like the leather one on my randonneur bike (I noticed that's what my rando buddies were riding), so I bought a rubber one for my touring bike. No regrets. Also, customer service was great when I lost a rivet - they sent me several new ones, no charge.
R1 Weatherproof Rubber Bicycle Saddle
09/14/2026
david o.
United States
Been busy backpacking, so only got a few rides in. Overall, I find that I can relax on this saddle. I’m still tweaking the adjustments, and yesterday felt like, “yeah, this is it. I got it!” But, or butt, I came home with a saddle sore! First one ever. I’m not saying its the saddle, but it it is...Been busy backpacking, so only got a few rides in. Overall, I find that I can relax on this saddle. I’m still tweaking the adjustments, and yesterday felt like, “yeah, this is it. I got it!” But, or butt, I came home with a saddle sore! First one ever. I’m not saying its the saddle, but it it is part of the calculus that I need to figure out
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
09/08/2026
Michael N.
United States
Overall, I’m happy with the saddle. It’s Paramount that the saddle be adjusted so you are sitting in that sweet spot in that hammock. The first couple miles was spent on and off my bike fine tuning the saddle. it’s important to adjust the saddle so you are not sliding down towards the front of the...Overall, I’m happy with the saddle. It’s Paramount that the saddle be adjusted so you are sitting in that sweet spot in that hammock. The first couple miles was spent on and off my bike fine tuning the saddle. it’s important to adjust the saddle so you are not sliding down towards the front of the saddle.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
09/02/2026
Ken W.
United States
OMG it is the most amazing product EVER!!!!! It has this thread screw bolt thingy and you line it up with this other thingy and turn your 2.5 mm hex tool thingy and if by magic they ATTACH your seat leather to the rail. Never have I seen such magic. Truly you people at Selle Anatomica are wizards....OMG it is the most amazing product EVER!!!!! It has this thread screw bolt thingy and you line it up with this other thingy and turn your 2.5 mm hex tool thingy and if by magic they ATTACH your seat leather to the rail. Never have I seen such magic. Truly you people at Selle Anatomica are wizards. What magic will you come up with next????
Honestly your seats are amazing and I have been a customer since the beginning. Sorta hard to get worked up over bolt but I tried.
Chicago Bolt/Cap
09/01/2026
John H.
used on multi week tours, approx 80km per day and still very comfortable.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
08/29/2026
Paul M.
United States
Great product and costumer service
Costumer service person Molly was helpful and patient.
Frame 2 Stainless Steel Rail Set
08/19/2026
Michael H.
United States
I put this saddle on my commuter bike and it feels much nicer for my 11-ish mile rides. Also really like the look and feel of it
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
08/17/2026
Harlan T.
United States
Love the seat. Finally no numbness!
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
08/16/2026
Owen W.
United States
Excellent. I now have 4 primary riders with Selle Anatomic saddles. I do really like them very much.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
08/07/2026
Matt W.
United States
Excellent part, easy installation
The original cast part broke a short while ago (after 10 years of use) and SA sent me the replacement for free. It was an easy install and I'm glad that this one is not a cast part. Very pleased with the customer service I received and love this seat--it is in great shape after a decade of use.
Frame 1 Tension Slide
08/03/2026
Alex G.
United States
Lost a rivet on a fairly new saddle. Instead of just sending a rivet or two, they sent a bag with two rivets charged me a nominal fee and then charged me postage which cost more than the rivets. Since the lost rivet was due to poor craftsmanship not neglect on my part I can not recommend this...Lost a rivet on a fairly new saddle. Instead of just sending a rivet or two, they sent a bag with two rivets charged me a nominal fee and then charged me postage which cost more than the rivets. Since the lost rivet was due to poor craftsmanship not neglect on my part I can not recommend this product
Chicago Bolt/Cap
07/29/2026
Rick T.
United States
Only used it a couple of times though based on those experiences I am going to really like this.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
07/12/2026
Annie S.
United States
Previous saddle, 15 miles were difficult, 25+ miles were very painful. New Selle Saddle is amazing! First ride was 20 miles and I could tell right away, it was going to feel great! Next ride 40 miles still zero pain; very comfortable!! Thank you so much!!
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
07/11/2026
Dan S.
United States
The frame 1 tension slide is great. I am grateful that this repair part is offered to replace a poorly designed aluminum part that was destined for failure. My complaint is about Selle Anatomica's extremely poor service. I place my order for this part and waited a month for it to arrive...finally I...The frame 1 tension slide is great. I am grateful that this repair part is offered to replace a poorly designed aluminum part that was destined for failure. My complaint is about Selle Anatomica's extremely poor service. I place my order for this part and waited a month for it to arrive...finally I came to the conclusion that it was never going to. So, I tried to contact them via phone, and e-mail. No response until some time after a second and third attempt. I eventually got the part I ordered, but it was way more trouble than it should have been. I think next time I'll buy a Brooks or Gilles Berthoud saddle.
Frame 1 Tension Slide
07/10/2026
Martin P.
United States
The cover fits snug with no wrinkles or bunching. Feels just like riding the bare saddle.
Waterproof Rain Cover
07/10/2026
Duront W.
United States
Great product that adds to the enjoyment of any cycling adventure - a comfortable saddle!
NewSkin (Leather) for Frame 1 Saddles
07/10/2026
Will H.
United States
I'm not an ultra-distance rider, but I used this on a 150 mile ride in Chicago (Tour de Chi) and was incredibly comfy the whole time. I don't wear padded bike shorts. Just Ripton jorts. Comfiest experience I've had on a saddle to date.
H1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
06/14/2026
Jim K.
United States
I have had this saddle for only 72 hours. However, I feel compelled to leave a review after only one 25 mile ride (which I planned to be a 10 mile test ride). I have ridden a bike as an adult for 60 years and I can honestly say, based on this first ride, I have never been more comfortable on a bike...I have had this saddle for only 72 hours. However, I feel compelled to leave a review after only one 25 mile ride (which I planned to be a 10 mile test ride). I have ridden a bike as an adult for 60 years and I can honestly say, based on this first ride, I have never been more comfortable on a bike in all those years. Not only was the seat more comfortable than the myriad of saddles I've used over the years (including Brooks and SMPs), this was the first ride in years that I experienced NO back pain when I got off the bike. The ride itself,for reasons I can't explain, seemed easier than this same ride that I have done many, many times. I certainly can't attest to durability and everyone's anatomy is different, but this is one amazing bike saddle.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
06/05/2026
John N.
United States
This is far and away the most comfortable saddle that I have ever used. I am extremely happy. However, I ordered some weather protection products (in a separate order on the same day) that I wish would hurry up and ship so that I am prepared for the rain.
H1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
06/04/2026
GARY N.
United States
$200.00 for a continuing sore buttocks!
No opinion on the saddle sauce, but the saddle is very disappointing. Can’t feel much difference with highly publicized quality and pain relief of your saddle. Sore buttocks after 20 miles, just like before.
Saddle Sauce
06/03/2026
Patrick S.
United States
This Saddle is a Hammock for Your Rear End
I over the last 10 years I have purchased a Selle for every bike I have bought. I think I am up to 6? Theresa is NO other seat that compares.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
06/02/2026
Brent N.
United States
I bought the Selle Anatomica X1 to replace the Brooks saddle that's been on my Co-Motion Nor'wester for a few years. The Brooks has never felt great, even after several hundred miles. By contrast, the Anatomica X1 felt good right from the start and has gotten increasingly more comfortable. It has...I bought the Selle Anatomica X1 to replace the Brooks saddle that's been on my Co-Motion Nor'wester for a few years. The Brooks has never felt great, even after several hundred miles. By contrast, the Anatomica X1 felt good right from the start and has gotten increasingly more comfortable. It has the added benefit of looking quite nice on my yellow bike and constantly gets compliments. I can't see going with any other saddle at this point.
X1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
06/02/2026
Noley B.
United States
Replacement for broken seat rails.
7,400 miles and one of the seat rails broke. Sent it in for replacement, but as I had a 2nd of three Selle seats (sans the cutout), I road that instead (which allowed it to get some breaking-in miles.). Didn't hear anything for a month. Made an inquiry, and suddenly things happened. They gave a...7,400 miles and one of the seat rails broke. Sent it in for replacement, but as I had a 2nd of three Selle seats (sans the cutout), I road that instead (which allowed it to get some breaking-in miles.). Didn't hear anything for a month. Made an inquiry, and suddenly things happened. They gave a discount for their slip-up in due care, and got it several days later. Noticed right away that the tension bolt was in the same position as I sent it. That was an attention to detail I was looking for as I've not really had to adjust it in several years (30 lbs weight loss helped), and didn't want to find it stretched "as a favor to me."
I'm still giving five stars, because in spite of the delay, they gave me a discount for the repair.
I switched to Selle because ye olde **** could no longer take the Brooks B67 leather, even after 2000 miles of trying to break it in. The Selle is much more comfortable and still looks nice even after 10 years.
Frame 1 NewFrame Hardened Rails
06/02/2026
Noley B.
United States
Replacement for broken seat rails.
I'm still giving five stars, because in spite of the delay, they gave me a discount for the repair.
Frame 1 NewFrame Hardened Rails
05/22/2026
Zak J.
United States
Went on a 15 mile ride for its maiden ride and my butt couldn’t of felt better!
H1 Leather Bicycle Saddle
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