Hybrid saddle height in relation to handlebar height.

[Devonhills]

As I look for the right set up in my new bike I’d like some advice on how high the saddle should be in relation to the handlebar height.
I thought that for a comfortable position that doesn’t completely compromise performance on a hybrid the saddle should be around level or lower than the handlebars.
I’ve tried a couple bikes but I think once I correctly set the saddle height it will be above the handlebars. Maybe considerably so. This will give a sportier position I suppose and might feel ok or excellent on a test ride but I’d be worried about regretting it later.
Is this common in hybrids now or should I continue to look for a bike with different geometry?
I’ll be using it mainly as a fitness bike, bit of commuting etc.
Any thoughts or advice on what I should be looking for in this aspect or how other people set their bikes up would be great.

 

[Ian H]

Saddle position is set in relation to the pedals, not the bars. Handlebar position can be adjusted using the spacers or by changing the stem for a differently angled one. Many stems are angled so that they can be flipped for a higher or lower position.

 

[Big John]

^^^^ What Ian said 👍

 

[Sharky]

Do you have a drop bar road bike as well?
I would start with the bars in a similar position to the straight part of the drop bars, relative to the BB/Saddle.

 

[Devonhills]

No. I have a mountain bike that must be well over 30 years old. Set seat height first. I then fitted a long adjustable stem to bring the handlebars above the height of the saddle. This gave me a comfortable riding position.
The spacers don’t give a great deal of height adjustment and I’d like to buy a bike that fits without changing stems right away if possible.
I’d be interested to hear where others have found a sweet spot for their handlebar height on a flat bar to put them in a comfortable position.
Is it the trend of modern hybrids to have this geometry or are there a range of good choices out there.

 

[Cycleops]

I don't think you'll get many cyclists wanting the handlebar height above that if the saddle so you're unlikely to hybrids coming that way being offered.
Obviously you like a 'sit up and beg' kind of position. Sounds a bit odd to me but chacun a son gout as they say. If you wanted to achieve this another way you could change the bars to higher ones.
Could you post a pic of your bike with this arrangement?

 

[Devonhills]

It’s not so much about emulating my current set up. I was kindly given that bike by a family member about four years ago. Went straight on a decent ride. Woke up with a crippled neck! Hence raising the bars. I’m sure it’s sub optimal so I was wondering if there was a consensus on what gives a sensible, comfortable riding position on flat bars. Saddle level with bars, a bit above, well above?
I know there are other variables but it will all help with deciding on a purchase of what should be a better bike and set up.

 

[presta]

I doubt you will find a mountain bike that will give you the bar height you're looking for, if you want an MTB I think you'll end up with either an extender or fitting a new fork with a longer steerer. Alternatively, opt for a bike designed for a more upright ride.

 

[Devonhills]

I’m looking at hybrids. Just trying to see if there’s any consensus on handlebar height in relation to saddle height. This will help me when I look at the myriad of new bikes that are out there.
Not even looked at buying a bike for years. My current set up is undoubtedly sub optimal which is why I didn’t mention it in my original post.

 

[Jameshow]

I’m looking at hybrids. Just trying to see if there’s any consensus on handlebar height in relation to saddle height. This will help me when I look at the myriad of new bikes that are out there.
Not even looked at buying a bike for years. My current set up is undoubtedly sub optimal which is why I didn’t mention it in my original post.

Hybrids vary so much from flat bar road bikes to sit up and beg Dutch style bikes.

I would try it at level with the saddle and see how you get on. If you've ridden a few bikes you'll know soon enough so carry an Allen key for adjusting on the go ...

 

[Cycleops]

The young lads down here favour this low seat/high bar configuration on their bikes. You can't see the bars very clearly but they are cowhorn type with a bar across and set vey high and long stem.


Nothing to do with comfort though.😉.