An Article by Richard Conard taken from Amazines
A lot of people in the cycling world are talking about bike fitting right now and rightly so. If you want to cycle often, are looking at competition, training and finding a cycle coach even, then you need your bicycle to properly fit you. More bicycle shops are offering their expertise in bike fitting but you might have noticed it seems to vary from one place to another. Key to getting the best in bike fitting is to use professionals who can maximize how you and your bike operate. It involves a lot of fine-tuning to get it to the best options in terms of power output and aerodynamics.
What is bicycle fitting?
Bicycle fitting is an expert making sure the bike you want to buy best suits you, your body, your skill so you can get the best performance possible, and be comfortable too. Those who do the fit use their experience and there are also some systems or equations that are used. How accurate the bike fit you get depends on how good they are. Therefore the results change from one shop to another. It is a very good idea if you are cycling in competitions to find experts on bike fitting, such as what you should find with the best coaches. This is not a science or an easy thing to do. There is a lot to consider.
Why there is no one system that everyone uses
There are a few major systems used in bike fitting including;
• Serotta Fit system
• Wobblenaught
• Kgs bikes system
• Specialised fit system
• Fit Kit
There are many tools used, data gathered and calculations made before the right bike is found. Which ones are used varies, the systems vary, the experience of the shops vary and that all adds up to different results. Different people in the industry have different opinions on what is important. It can also vary when some shops are less concerned about the best fit and more concerned about selling bikes.
Signs you need to find expert bike fitters
Due to the varied skill levels and philosophies across various shops, the best approach is to look for real experience as with a cycle coach. If you are experiencing a sore back, numb hands, saddle problems, sore neck and shoulders and discomfort, then you need to make a change. As you cycle on a road you should be able to let go of the handlebars and not feel out of control. Sometimes bicyclers accept discomfort and soreness as just part of what comes with the sport, but it does not have to be like that.
Summary
When you are investing in a bike and you are going to be spending a lot of time on that thing, you should feel sure you will be as comfortable as you can be! If you are unsure about the experience or knowledge of a shop, find some expertise elsewhere. If you are doing more than riding your bike once a week for a bit of fun, then the best bike fit is important.
Leave a comment