Early last year following a winters training and a couple of training trips abroad in the sunshine i was in the best form and shape i had been in for many many years and i was excited to pin a number on during the 2024 season. Those hopes were quickly cut short following me tearing my calf muscle whilst playing with one of my dogs and ending up in A&E after a long rehab process through most of 2024 i am now at the stage where i can start cycling again. As part of the slow building process i wanted to get a Bike Fit to ensure the interface between my bike and I were as ergonomically correct as possible.
Yesterday i was fortunate enough to be offered a Bike Fit by the legend that is and one of the only people i would trust Andrew Shore AKA Shoz.
Introduction
Getting a professional bike fit is one of the most crucial steps in ensuring comfort, efficiency, and injury prevention while riding. Recently, I underwent a comprehensive bike fitting session, which involved assessing and adjusting multiple aspects of my position on the bike. The process started from my feet and cleats and systematically moved up to my upper body, including my hands and overall reach. The changes made throughout the fit significantly improved my stability, power output, and hopefully overall riding experience.
Bike Fit Process
1. Foot Position and Cleat Adjustment
The fitting process began with an assessment of my feet, as they serve as the foundation of my pedaling mechanics. The bike fitter analyzed my natural foot position, arch support, and cleat alignment. Small but crucial adjustments were made to my cleat position to ensure proper knee tracking and power transfer. This helped eliminate unnecessary strain on my knees and improved pedaling efficiency.
2. Lower Body Adjustments (Saddle Height & Fore-Aft Position)
Once my feet were properly positioned, attention shifted to my lower body, particularly my saddle height and fore-aft position. The goal was to achieve an optimal balance between comfort and power output. Adjusting the saddle height helped me maintain a more efficient pedal stroke, reducing fatigue and strain on my hips and knees. The fore-aft adjustment ensured that my knee was positioned correctly in relation to the pedal spindle, further optimizing power transfer.
3. Upper Body Position (Handlebar Reach & Stack)
With the lower body dialed in, we moved to the upper body position. This involved adjusting my handlebar reach and height to achieve a stable and comfortable posture. An incorrect reach can cause excessive strain on the shoulders, neck, and lower back, leading to discomfort on long rides. After fine-tuning the handlebar position, I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to maintain a relaxed yet controlled position on the bike.
4. Hand Position & Cockpit Adjustments
Finally, the fit focused on my hand position and cockpit setup. The goal was to ensure that my wrists were in a neutral position, reducing stress on my hands and forearms. Bar width, hood placement, and reach to the brakes were all adjusted to enhance comfort and control. These refinements allowed me to maintain a secure grip on the handlebars while reducing hand numbness and fatigue during extended rides.
The Importance of Comfort and Stability
One of the key takeaways from my bike fit session was the importance of being both comfortable and stable on the bike. A well-fitted bike not only prevents injuries but also enhances overall performance and endurance. Stability is essential for maintaining control, especially on long rides or technical terrain. By achieving a balanced position, I now feel more confident and efficient on the bike, with reduced strain on my body and improved power transfer.
Conclusion
Overall, the bike fit made several significant changes to my position, all of which contributed to a more comfortable, stable, and efficient riding experience. Starting from my feet and working up to my hands, each adjustment played a crucial role in optimizing my fit. The process reinforced the importance of proper biomechanics and posture, ultimately making my rides more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run. If you’re serious about cycling, investing in a professional bike fit is an essential step toward maximising both comfort and performance.
To speak to us about specific issues or BikeFit queries get in touch with us and if we cant help you ourselves we'll point you in the right direction.
All the bikes we sell come with a basic fit & set up to ensure the bike fits you correctly and is comfortable for you.
