Originally Posted by
Cycletography
The shape of the saddle is absolutely not irrelevent. I do not disagree that using a board and a level will provide a point of reference for adjustment, but the shape of the saddle will influence the fit.
The shape of the saddle is irrelevant as a single point of reference. The shape of the saddle is just another variable, just like cleat position and saddle height. You can have a saddle of one shape that 'fits' at a certain saddle height and not at another saddle height. The 'fit' is a combination of all these variables. Fit your cleats first, then your saddle height, then seat fore/aft, then seat tilt, repeat until you have it suited to the rider. Hence why I suggested, once all the other variables are set, start with the saddle at 0 degrees and go from there.