There are many schools of thought and may different certifications for bicycle fit. Thousands of articles and plenty of misinformation are also readily available on the internet. After performing thousands of fits over the past 10 years, it is still my opinion that there is no substitute for experience. There are so many variables that it is not possible to create a formula from a small set of measurements. It is also not possible to read a few articles or take a weekend class and be a competent bike fitter.
A bicycle fitter's job is to take all of the guess work out of finding you a great bike. Scheduling a proper bike fit is the most important step you can take in finding the right bike and enjoying it. A professional bicycle fit is time and money well spent. Do not make the mistake of thinking you can guess on your fit! Due to the repetitive nature of cycling motion, a bike that is as little as 1cm off can cause a rider great discomfort.
A good fit can help in the following ways:
Performance
A proper fit will allow the rider to expend less energy, put out more power.
Comfort
A good fit will be tailored to the type of riding and specific goals you are looking to achieve. It will make the bike comfortable and reduce the chance of injury.
Aerodynamics-
The primary goal of a triathlon and time trial fit is to achieve better aerodynamics and still maintain comfort and power output. For elite road racers, aerodynamics is also relevant.
In addition to finding the proper position on the bike, a good fitter will help you determine other attributes of the bike you are looking for; i.e. the stiffness and ride characteristics of the bike. This varies greatly and depends on the weight and height of the rider. The frame, wheels, tires and handlebars all work together to complete the picture of how your bike will feel. From how the handlebars sit in your hands, to how the wheels work with the frame, the details of the component selection is very important.
Trying to retrofit a bike that is the wrong size makes the fit process much more challenging! Achieving the correct position may also not be possible if the bike is too far off. Picking a bike that achieves the optimal set of dimensions always yields the best results (Having the ideal stem length and saddle height dramatically affect the way a bike handles and feels).
A properly fit bike will descend, accelerate and corner with confidence.
A poorly fit bike can shake, wobble and ultimately be dangerous.
During the fit we are happy to explain what we are doing and why. Feel free to ask as many questions as you wish. Through this interaction, most find they feel much more comfortable about the purchase decision they are making.
Big Ring Cycles is a F.I.S.T. Certified Fitter. More information coming soon!
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