Question: I watched the world track championships and was amazed to see the sprinters sitting on the tip of the saddle.

I tried that position and could feel the extra speed and acceleration. Of course, after a few hundred meters, my crotch was killing me!

So, why shouldn't I move my saddle fully forward to get the benefits of extra speed without suffering the discomfort? -- Steve T.

Coach Fred Replies: The main problem with sitting "on the rivet" (as the Brits say) is the one that you found -- pain!

Frames have been made with steeper seat-tube angles to put the saddle forward, allowing you to be in that position but still sit on the wide part where you should. Instead of having a typical 73-degree seat-tube angle, these frames are as steep as 78 degrees.

You can generate short-term speed while sitting way forward. Track riders going hard for short distances find it useful, and so do road sprinters and time trialists.

Most riders naturally move up when the hammer goes down. But it isn't a particularly good position for climbs, long rides or pedaling in groups or pacelines.

For all-around riding, the standard position is more efficient and comfortable. Just scoot forward for a few seconds when you need a burst of speed.