WHO THIS IS FOR
IS THIS YOU?
The rider using a home plumb line
You want a repeatable record without turning KOPS into a diagnosis.
The rider tempted to shorten reach with the saddle
You need to separate pedalling support from cockpit fit.
THE ROADMAN VIEW
The Roadman view
KOPS can tell you where the knee is relative to the pedal. It cannot tell you that the whole position is correct.
Setback belongs to the saddle system; cockpit reach belongs to the front end.
EXPERT EVIDENCE
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY
- Roadman editorial reviewFact-check against cycling biomechanics research
Research on setback changes can describe altered joint forces, but evidence connecting one setback measure to pain remains inconclusive.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION
DO THIS WEEK
Record height and setback
Use repeatable bicycle and saddle reference points before moving the saddle.
Record KOPS as context
If used, repeat the same crank position, rider posture and kneecap landmark.
Test balance, not a line
Make one small change and reassess normal pedalling and control on a comparable easy ride.
COMMON MISTAKES
WHAT CYCLISTS GET WRONG
MISTAKETreating the plumb line as a pass/fail test.
FIXUse it as one recorded reference alongside riding goal and rider response.
MISTAKESliding the saddle to make the bars feel closer.
FIXAssess reach through the cockpit after the saddle is stable.
MISTAKEDiagnosing knee pain from setback.
FIXReview load, fit, equipment and health together.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Should my knee be directly over the pedal spindle?
Can saddle fore-aft cause knee pain?
Should I move my saddle to change reach?
Does changing setback affect saddle height?
NOT DONE YET
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