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Bike fits explained: what is a bike fit and should you get one?

A professional bike fit can help you ride comfortably and efficiently, but is something many riders don’t see the point of, despite bike fitting being a burgeoning field.

We almost all experience some aches and pains when cycling or afterwards. Some of that might be unavoidable, but a proper bike setup that’s tailored to your individual size and shape will often alleviate or remove many such issues. It may make you faster too. There are numerous myths and misconceptions about bike fitting, so read on to learn more about bike fits, why you need one, what’s involved and what it might cost.

What is a bike fit?

Pro bike fits are often supported by specialist analysis software. David Rome / Future Publishing

A bike fit is a service where a professional fitter will assess your riding goals and history as well as your anatomy, then look at your position on your bike and your pedalling dynamics. They’ll modify how your bike is set up, to improve your comfort and how efficiently you pedal. That’s often done with the help of tools such as adjustable stationary bikes, video capture and analysis software, although an expert eye is also an important tool to identify potential problem areas. James Thomas, a bike fit specialist at Bicycle Richmond says the starting point for a bike fit is the rider, not their current bike: “Often, a bike fitter is presented with a bike which may or may not be right [for the rider] and they adhere to the limitations of that bike,” he says. Therefore, understanding the rider’s needs is the first step. When it comes to the bike, sometimes it may just be a matter of adjusting setup such as your saddle height and how far back it is on its rails. A bike fitter may suggest other changes such as a saddle that better suits your sitbone anatomy or a different stem length or pedal system. A fitter may use a pressure pad on the saddle to understand how your weight is distributed when riding.

Should you get a bike fit?

Specialists argue that anyone who spends a lot of time in the saddle could do with a bike fit. Joseph Branston / Our Media

A bike fit is increasingly seen as part and parcel of the bike-buying experience. It’s important to get set up correctly so you’re comfortable as you ride and are pedalling as efficiently as possible. “If you intend on spending any amount of time on a bicycle, then you should have someone look at your position and interaction with the bike,” says Thomas. Riding a bike involves repeating a quite limited range of motion thousands of times, with your body sat most of the time in a more-or-less static position, so the risk of discomfort or injury if you’re not set up right is high, even though cycling is a low-impact sport.

A bike fit can increase your power output as well. Thomas cites examples of riders who have seen increases of up to 50 watts in their FTP after a fit. “Fundamentally, if you’ve got someone who is fighting their position, and all [a bike fitter] has to do is bring it into range for them, it’s not hard to find that sort of power,” he Комментарии и мнения владельцев. It’s important to realise too that a bike fit isn’t a one-off thing, says Nas Karimi, in-house bike fitter at Pearson Cycles in London. As time goes by and you ride more, you may become more or less flexible, so you should plan to have a repeat bike fit every few years, to make sure that your setup is still optimal for you. Other factors such as injury, weight changes or, for a woman, childbirth may also alter your fit. “Optimising a human being on a bike is a constantly moving target. It’s a constantly changing entity, which feeds the thought that bike fitting is a process rather than a [single] event,” Thomas states.

BIKE FITTING

Did you know that you could be riding faster, longer, and in greater comfort? Folks come from all over northern California to get our BG F.I.T. professional bike fitting services. Learn more about our services and schedule your appointment with a fit specialist today.

• Basic Flexibility Assessment
• Dynamic Saddle Height
• Dynamic Saddle Fore/Aft
• Dynamic Handlebar Positioning
• Cleat Adjustment
• Advanced Flexibility Assessment
• Advanced Structural Assessment
• Footbed Fitting
• Handlebar Width Drop Assessment

What’s the Secret?

BG F.I.T. (BODY GEOMETRY FIT INTEGRATION TECHNOLOGY)

BG F.I.T., is part bike fit, part ergonomic geometry, and part components (including Specialized stems and saddles) that allow customization of your position to perfectly fit your body. BG F.I.T. is the first totally integrated system for fitting the bike to the rider.

The father of BG F.I.T., Andy Pruitt, EdD, PA, the Director of the Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, has been helping cyclists ride better for more than 30 years and literally wrote the book on cycling and medicine.

The optimal fit enables a rider to get the most performance from her/his bike and body. Comfort, speed, and control can all be enhanced to ensure that whatever your objectives are, you will be better equipped to meet them… and with greater enjoyment. At Victory Velo, we have made significant investments in training and equipment in order to assist you in arriving at your optimal fit.

Call us today at 530-885-3986 to schedule an appointment.

It is important to realize that there is no perfect fit. Changes in one’s fitness, size, riding style, preference, and attitude influence what feels right and works best. Also, our bodies are constantly changing, thus the relationship with the bike should change as well. It is important that we keep in mind this dynamic relationship and remain prepared to make small adjustments to the ‘new’ fit as time in the saddle increases.

Though some like to follow fit philosophies that exclusively utilize formulas, we appreciate that there is no average body type, and thus the combination of proven formulas, rider feedback, and an experienced eye guide us to the most comfortable and efficient position for you.

PERFORMANCE

An optimal position not only increases comfort—it maximizes both power and endurance.

WHAT IS A RETÜL BIKE FIT?

Retül Fit is more than just a bike fit—it’s a way to learn about your body, the root cause of your aches and pains, and how a proper fit will help you achieve your cycling goals.

Using 3D motion capture technology, the Retül system accurately measures every degree of movement and millimeter of distance, providing you and the fitter with data to support the choices made during the fit for your cycling equipment and personal riding experience.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Starting with a pre-fit physical assessment, your fitter will take into account your body’s limitations, previous injuries and pains, and what your goals are on the bike.

From there, the fitter will have you get on the bike (either your existing bike or fit bike) to place LED markers on 8 anatomical points of your body which will be tracked by the Retül Vantage Motion Capture system. The Retül Vantage system is used to collect real-time, three-dimensional data from each pedal stroke creating a dynamic fit experience.

The hard part

Hayden put me through a VO2 MAX test. I build at least one VO2 MAX turbo session into my week. as it’s the best ‘bang for your buck’ for improving fitness — along with some decent base miles (Z2) and sweet spot. Anyway, I have been guessing my VO2 MAX based on my 20min FTP test and loosely calling my Z5 training zone VO2 MAX, which is in the right ballpark but not the complete picture.

I am a practised cyclist and have reached the level where I can no longer find ‘maximal gains’ and have to look for ‘marginal gains’ to see continuous improvement. Consistency is the most important factor for progression, but the key to consistency isn’t just turning up — but consistently stepping out of your comfort zone.

Focussing on increasing your time spent at VO2 MAX is a great way to train your ability to pile on the hurt and build your engine.

Having an accurate measure can improve the quality of your training. All training zones and efforts are relevant, but using them the right way will help get the best out of yourself.

The ramp test was a sweat fest, but I have conditioned myself to ‘break down the challenge’. When you know your training zones, you can look at a ramp test and know that most of it will be performed well within your comfort zone. It’s only when you get into Z5 that it starts to burn, and your core temperature rises. Also, you have a mask on your face, which restricts your breathing ability. Before you know it, you have gone from relative ease to dripping with sweat and gasping for air.

Hayden talked me through each step of the process and made sure I squeezed out my best effort. I was pretty happy with my results — and now know where I can find improvements.

Conclusion

I left Vires Velo a more knowledgeable rider. That is what this experience is all about. Education is the first step to making positive changes.

I have put longer spindles on my pedals, which instantly felt more comfortable. But unfortunately, I have tapped out god knows how many hours riding in my old position, so it will take a bit of time to retrain my muscle memory and consciously correct these movements until they become unconscious.

I have done several hundred kilometres and I can already feel myself adapting. The mid arch insoles have reduced the amount of movement inside my shoe, so I have a more stable platform. It really does feel like a world of difference.

As someone who tracks my calories, macros, and nutrition, I have adjusted my daily target to align with my RMR test. With consistency, I hope to see some improvements in my overall well-being and my performance.

I have adjusted my VO2 MAX training sessions on Zwift to hit the exact number. One of my MANY sayings, is “increase, adapt, repeat.” — so I am looking forward to popping back over to Vires Velo soon for a retest.

The best thing about Vires Velo is that everything is under one roof. Spend the day here, and you can get a bike fit, physiology testing, have your bike looked after by a mechanic, etc. For example, I have previously gone to Putney for a bike fit, Central London for insoles, Wandsworth for a mechanic, and Kingston for VO2 MAX testing. What a chore. It’s much more time and cost-effective to get it all done under one roof — and to an exceptional standard, with great people.

Thanks for the knowledge, gains, beautiful coffee, and good company, Vires Velo.

And big thanks to Tom Fleetwood for documenting the process and calling me while I was driving home to tell me I had forgotten my cycling shoes. Classic.

Veloharmony Dynamic Bike Fit Houston Custom Fit Studio 77389

New to cycling or experiencing discomfort while riding? Then you’ve come to the right place. Whether this is your first time to our custom fit studio or it’s time for your annual re-fit, our bike fit Houston services are for both new and returning bike fit cyclists.

Eldred Nims is an avid cyclist, coach, master bike technician and Houston’s premier bike fitter. With decades of experience with the latest cycling technology, a session with the Veloharmony team will make you a more comfortable, efficient, and powerful cyclist: regardless of your cycling experience level.

VHC Dynamic Bike Fit Services

Please note, a complete bicycle is required for all fittings. We have stems and saddles to try if your current components are not ideal.

One bike only. Additional bikes extra.

VHC Ultimate Bike Fit

The VHC Ultimate Bike Fit is an in-depth fully explained process during the fit that provides a detailed, diagnostic assessment typically beneficial for previously injured riders or those simply seeking the ultimate custom fit experience. The Ultimate VHC Bike Fit is a 90 minute data driven fit used to optimize efficiency, power, flexibility and comfort on your current Road or Tri-bike. This fit addresses any existing issues currently being experienced while riding your bike which is assessed during the rider interview.

This fit is recommended for all fitness cyclists, enthusiasts, cyclo-tourists, or racers, intending to improve overall conditioning, performance, weight loss, participation in competitive cycling events, group rides, cyclo-sportives, gran Fondo’s, etc., which requires an above average training commitment.

• 90 minute Service
• Rider Interview (address existing bike comfort issues)
• Analyze riding style and provide Specific pedaling instruction
• Structural and Flexibility Assessment
• Analyze Leg Length discrepancy
• Analyze Q Angle Pedal distance
• Proper on bike balance Validation
• Comprehensive Cleat/Shoe Alignment (footbeds mating/shims/etc.)
• Comprehensive Saddle Height, Saddle Tilt Fore-Aft Positioning
• Comprehensive Handlebar Angle Brake Hoods Positioning
• 30 – Day Warranty (free follow-up within the first 30 days after the fit session for adjustments/component changes)
• Fit Documentation (emailed detailed fit measurements of rider and bike used during fit session)

Schedule your Fitting! Call 713.360.8664 if you have any questions.

VHC Standard Bike Fit (Standard Flat Pedals- No Cleats)

VHC Standard Bike Fit is recommended for Recreational Cyclists that have no pedal cleat attachments. (Flat Pedals – No Cleats).

Our Standard Bike Fit service is designed for those looking for a basic fit by an experienced professional fitter to provide a comfortable setup for recreational cycling.

No 30 Day Warranty /Fit Documentation – No Cleat Setup or Alignment.

Bring riding Shorts and non-clipped Shoes used when riding.

• 60 minute Service
• Rider Interview
• Saddle Height, Saddle Tilt Fore-Aft Positioning
• Handlebar Angle Brake Hoods Positioning

Schedule your Fitting! Call 713.360.8664 if you have any questions.

Annual Fit Review (prior customers only – 30 days past original VHC bike fit):

• 45 minute Service
• Rider Interview
• Address existing bike fit related issues
• Validate proper on bike balance

Schedule your Fitting! Call 713.360.8664 if you have any questions.

Bike Sizing:

• 45 minute Service
• Rider Interview
• Sizing Documentation
• Bring Riding Shorts

Custom Bike Ordering

• 45 minute Service
• Custom bike Ordering from our recommended builder or any builder you prefer.

Veloharmony Fit Studio is located in Spring, Texas 77389. We work by Appointment Only. Bring your bike, your cycling kit and your cycling shoes. A helmet is not needed. Your inseam must be taken in cycling shorts and you will be riding an indoor trainer to finalize your fit. We ask that you give us the courtesy of a 24-hour notice if you need to reschedule your appointment. Cancellation Policy

Appointment

Professional bicycle fitting is an emerging science that combines cycling fundamentals with the fields of biomechanics and physiology. In other words, you can’t just eyeball the seat height, throw on a pair of shoes and take off. Our ultimate result between the bike and your connection points is to make the bicycle disappear. Once you no longer notice the bike and the only thing on your mind is your ride, the scenery, and/or company, then you have a good bike fit. Similarly, while a bike racer may not care about the scenery, they do care how fast they are going and their position in the field. When a bike racer is not conscious about their bike (it disappears) they are experiencing a great bike fit. Schedule your Fit

What is a Veloharmony Dynamic bike fit?

A bicycle that fits well and is right for your height, flexibility and riding style is a machine you’ll love riding. A bicycle that fits poorly can lead to inefficient riding, muscle aches and pains, and general discomfort that might discourage you from riding as long or as far as you would like. Dynamic bicycle fitting is a science and must be done correctly to optimize rider comfort and efficiency.

What are symptoms of a poor bicycle Setup?

Pain, numbness and swelling in the foot, hands, elbow, neck and lower back. During your custom fitting session you will given tips on how to improve your riding technique and improve your performance.

If you experience pains in your

• shoulder
• neck
• elbow
• arms
• numbness in your hands or feet
• saddle discomfort while riding or after riding

chances are you need a dynamic custom setup done by a professional.

Veloharmony Cyclery provides custom fits in its North Houston Studio with on-site studio fits, mobile local fits within Spring area (additional charges apply) and remote internet bike fits, by an independent Master Bike fitter and former road racer; providing those not local to the studio, the option of a remote online bike fit service.

We are a professional dynamic custom studio combining cycling fundamentals with the fields of biomechanics and physiology. In other words, you can’t just eyeball the seat height, throw on a pair of shoes and take off. You need to dial in your setup to the millimeter.

Veloharmony’s dynamic setup, employs principles of bicycle fitting, utilizing our more that two decades of working with age group racers, iron man triathletes, State Criterium and Road racers. State Time Trial Champions, as well as Pro, Elite, and recreational cyclists.

We can assist those of you considering a custom bespoke bike from either our sponsor Kish Fabrication or any builder of your choice. We will assist in filling out the required forms after your bike fitting to ensure your builder gets the exact measurements to build your new frame. Additional charges apply.

We have also helped numerous local riders in clubs we ride with on our highly rated video group ride cycling adventures regularly shared on our acclaimed Veloharmony YouTube Channel.

What is a Custom Houston Veloharmony Dynamic Bike fit?

“This is not a bike shop Fit”

• Veloharmony custom Houston bike fit studio and performance center ; utilizes dynamic cycling analysis, measuring you while on your bike. Our nearly three decades of experience, allows us to visually analyze and adjust your fit for optimal efficiency. We do not rely on fancy machines, since the feedback of our clients coupled with our years of cycling and fit experience; outperforms any ‘fit kit’ out there.
• We FOCUS on ensuring you get value for your fit dollars, striving to ensure you are comfortable immediately upon the completion of our fit.
• We check flexibility and physical limits to ensure that you are getting the best and most efficient fit based on your riding style and your physical ability.
• Each session is customized to the need of the individual cyclist while considering the history, goals, physical parameters of the rider.
• Our bike fit expertise is utilized to ensure the interface between the rider and the bike has the best balance of comfort and power.
• We FOCUS on ensuring our clients use their available equipment whenever possible and not sell you unnecessary bike parts.
• We offer free followup for all our fit customers. All we ask is that you ride your bike within thirty days of your fit, so that we can properly tweak your position if necessary.

Discomfort

Are you in discomfort when you ride your bike? Have you had a bad experience with a prior setup and had no followup and felt like all the fitter wanted was your money?

Well, you have arrived at the Bike fit cycling home that focuses on ensuring you get value for your cycling dollars and strive to ensure you are comfortable immediately upon the completion of being fitted.

• We offer free followup for all our fit customers. All we ask is that you ride your bike within 30 days of your fit so that we can properly tweak your position.

Veloharmony custom bike fit studio and performance center in Houston utilizes dynamic cycling analysis, measuring you while on your bike. Our almost three decades of experience allows us to visually analyze and adjust your fit for optimal efficiency. We do not rely on fancy machines, since the feedback of our clients along with our years of cycling and bicycle setup experience outperforms any ‘fit kit’ out there.

We check flexibility and physical limits to ensure that you are getting the best and most efficient fit based on your riding style and your physical ability.

Each session is customized to the need of the individual cyclist while considering the history, goals, physical parameters of the rider.

We FOCUS on ensuring our clients use their available equipment whenever possible and not sell you unnecessary bike parts.

Our bike fit expertise is utilized to ensure the interface between the rider and the bike has the best balance of comfort and power.