Getting a professional bike fit
Having a bike that fits you well not only make it more comfortable to ride but reduces the risk of injury and may improve aerodynamics and efficiency. So how do we know that our bike fits?
Most local bike shops can do a pretty good job getting you set up on the right size bike. In many cases, that will be based on one or maybe two measurements. The most common is your inseam leg length. That’s the distance between the ground and your crotch. From this measurement your approximate seat height can be calculated, which is then used to choose a frame size. Most manufacturers also provide guidelines showing a approximate height of the rider and the appropriate frame size. If you’re really lucky, the bike shop may also measure your reach, which is calculated by measuring the distance from fingertip to fingertip. As the name suggests, Reach refers to how far “out front” you can reach to comfortably hold on to the handlebars.
Armed with these two measurements, the local bike store can usually get you set up on an appropriately sized bike, but that’s not where the story ends. Not everyone fits into a nice formula. Age, restricted movement, past injuries and poor flexibility (maybe due to age, past injury or genetics) all impact what fit is comfortable to a cyclist. Even if your local bike shop is really thorough and keen, it’s doubtful they will be able to do much to measure or advise you about choices based on these individual factors.
Basic Professional Bike Fit
This is where a professional bike fit really shines. Professional bike fits usually come in a few varieties, depending on how much you want to pay. At the very least, you’ll be getting a service that looks not only at your physical dimensions, but also your preferred riding style (aggressive or comfort orientation) and the types of events you’ll be doing (road racing, criteriums, time-trials). The fitter will go over the bike from head to tail to ensure that it fits well.
Advanced Bike Fit
Beyond a basic bike fit, the sky is the limit. More advanced fit services include the use of special adjustable machines that are used to dial in your perfect fit. Some of these, like the Retül system uses feedback from sensors located on your body to build a digital map of your perfect bike that I can then be used to actually set up your real bike. These advanced fits will also look at any biomechanical issues, like injuries and your bodies limitations, as well as all the other aspects of a basic bike fit, such as your riding style and event goals.
Will I have to buy new parts?
Even if your bike is the right frame size, don’t be surprised if you need to swap out some parts to have it fit you perfectly. The fitter may determine that you need a different saddle, stem, handlebars (incorrect width) or even cranks (incorrect length). If you’re getting a fit done before and while purchasing a new bike, you may be lucky to have some of these discounted or swapped without charged because your equipment is new, but if you’re getting a fit for your existing bike, you’re probably going to have to pay for these new parts and hope you can get something back for your old parts online if they are in good condition.