Knowing if Your Bike Fits Properly

Some people do not even realise their bike should fit them properly. Some think a bit of discomfort is normal and they just have to live with it. In fact, anyone who wants to ride a bike regularly can benefit from having a proper bike fit, and those who cycle in triathlons, in competitions and so on especially need it. But bike fitting is not an exact thing, and different experts and bike shops use different systems, tools and their own experience when they are working it out.

Most bike fitters look for the best compromise

In general, most programs for fitting bikes uses data gathered from their chosen system and then tries to fit those dimensions to a bicycle for you. Essentially it means finding a compromise between efficiency as well as things like comfort for you. For example, for some wanting a single-speed bike to commute to and from work each day, changing the saddle height a couple of inches likely will not make a difference to their ride. They will get to work still each day. But for a cyclist looking to compete, that accuracy becomes more important. It is something any cycle coach will tell you. A bike fitting is an essential part of the process for the latter type.

Recognising the signs that you need a bike fitting

But the fitting for a 21-year-old and a 40-year-old is going to differ as well. Many adults do not know what it feels like to have a bike fit to their needs and comfort as they have never done it. When you do not know there could be something wrong why would you? Especially if you have been through a shopfitting so assume they know what they are talking about. Some athletes and cyclists are struggling without knowing the reason is poor fitting, not anything to do with them. A cycle coach often has to tackle setups on bikes with their cyclists before doing anything else. Here are some things to think about to see if you have it right or not.

• Do you get numbness in your hands and perhaps your feet too?
• Is there pain from the saddle, especially towards the front end?
• If you position your hands in the drops does it become hard to see?
• Do you get frequent neck, lower back or shoulder pain when you cycle?
• Do you keep slipping forwards on your saddle and have to push yourself back often to get more comfortable?
• When handling descents or corners do you feel like your bike becomes unstable?
• If you let go of the handles do you slide forward?
• Is there pain in your knees?

If any of these things are true for you that indicates you have a bike set up that could be improved.

Summary

Find someone with experience and the real skill to do a bike fit for you. You will be amazed by the difference it makes in how you feel when you are out there, how you feel when you come home, and how your performance improves!