I’ve Officially Been Pimped…uhhh…Fit
Three weeks ago today, I started my virtual bike fit process with Victor from Bicycle Lab. I’ve explained the pre-fit and mid-fit process previously, and have shared my comments…and it’s time to wrap it all up with my post-fit review.
It didn’t actually take three full weeks to complete the process. We pretty much finished things off over a week ago, but I wasn’t able to debrief my comments into a blog before I took off on my trip to Belize. First of all, I have to once again say how much of a pleasure it was working with Victor. He is extremely knowledgeable and has a passion for helping people connect better with their bikes. I’m sure all professional bike fitters are great at what they do, but I’m extremely happy that I was able to work with Victor because of the comfort and connection I had in my relationship with him. I loved working with him so much that I even ended up buying a new Garmin Edge 500 from him as well….I’ve had that on my wish list for a few months now.
After several videos, pictures, and phone calls the recommendation from Victor was the following:
- Cleats – Move cleats back as far as they will go. Try and keep the same angle of the cleats. Put supportive insoles in shoes.
- Saddle – Slide saddle back 2cm and level Lower saddle .5cm or 5mm.
- Stem – Change stem to an 80mm – 6 degrees.
The weather over here totally cooperated with me and warmed up just in time for me to get out on the streets and test out my new adjustments. At first I didn’t notice a great deal of difference from how I was set up before….but as I continued to ride, I started to feel it. I’ve got a rotator cuff issue with my right shoulder and on the first few rides of the year, it generally starts to ache about 70 minutes into the ride. I could feel my shoulder start acting up a little, but the burning that I’m used to never came. That fact alone makes the fit a roaring success. I’m going to stay in touch with Victor over the coming weeks and let him know how it’s going.
There may be a few more tweaks here and there, and he’ll let me know if there are any other adjustments to be made. Another sign of a good bike fitter….one who sticks with you following the fit.
We, as road and tri bike cyclists, invest a ton of cash into our rides. When we’re spending that kind of money, it makes total sense to invest just a little bit more to customize it to your body.
A professional bike fit will cost you between $300 and $500, plus any equipment change costs.
None of us are built exactly the same and a 53″ frame is going to fit you much differently than it fits me. A bike fitter will ensure that your ideal size frame is adjusted to suit your own personal body.
If you’ve had a professional fit, how did it affect your ride? If you haven’t, what questions do you have about getting one done?
Pingback: How to shop for a new road bike | Cycling 360 Media
Pingback: Getting a Bike Fit | Cycling 360 Media