BIKE FITTING![]() Cyclists are always looking for “that” new bike part or upgrade to make them faster when they should be more concerned with a proper bike fit. To increase performance, a rider needs the right size bike/parts and the right position to produce more power.
Because no rider is symmetrical, creating the correct position and contact points between the bike and the rider is critical. One of the most common biological problems associated with cycling is a leg length discrepancy. This can cause several issues as an athlete, one of which is asymmetrical knee pain or lower back pain. Studies show that 40%-70% of the population have some type of leg length discrepancy (LLD). Minor discrepancies of less than 2cm can reduce power in cyclists and runners by disengaging muscle groups, causing increased energy consumption, and an increase in over use injuries. There are two types of LLD - structural and mechanical. A LLD can be diagnosed and accurately measured by a clinical exam, X-Ray, MRI, or CT scan of the lower body. Before taking any corrective bike fit measures, the cause of the LLD needs to be determined. A bike fitter should not try to correct a mechanical discrepancy before knowing the cause first. LLD often cause asymmetrical over/under pronation which effects cyclists and runners. This is the reason that the most important part of any bike fit is the connection from the pedals to the rider. Paul Swift, former pro cyclist and creator of BikeFit explains, “It's important to understand the difference between bike sizing and a bike fit. If you're purchasing a new bike, remember that bike sizing is done to determine the correct bike frame size. Bike fitting, on the other hand, alters the bike to fit the cyclist's unique body architecture to maximize efficiency and prevent injury." Fitting a bicycle comes down to the contact points (connection points) between the cyclist and their bicycle. These five connection points are: right and left foot, the pelvis and right and left hands. So even if your bike is not the correct ‘size,’ as long as you get the connection points in the ideal place, you can still achieve a good and comfortable bike fit.” Our trained bike fitters have spent numerous hours working one-on-one with BikeFit factory techs to master the ideal bio-mechanical bike fit and position for individual riders. The extensive instruction we received compliments our ability and unique eye for training athletes, as well as, correcting their form and riding technique. With every bike fit, a 90+ Certified Bike Fitter and coach will not only assess your riding form, but will set your riding position up perfectly to make sure you get the most out of every pedal stroke. Bike Fittings are by appointment and take approx. 3 hrs, $240-$280 I've worked in bike shops and been to many as a customer. 90+ Cycling is the real deal! John loves his craft and is excellent at it. He really keys in on the subtleties for each rider. Did a bike fit today. Very impressed. I have been in and out of PT for 5 years and still have severe imbalances. John's bike fit was excellent. Three Physical Therapists could not figure out and correct what took John 2 hrs to address. |