Bike fit

[Catrin]

The skills of a professional fitter really do matter. If I had the choice of going to a shop that had the most current fitting "system" but had a fitter with not so much experience or who doesn't know how to listen (and they are out there), or a shop that didn't have a fancy fitting system but had a skilled and talented fitter - I would take the latter every time. The fitting systems are useful, but the users have to understand what fitting is about - it is a very dynamic process and really is about more than simply measurements. Parts of bike fit is certainly objective, but some elements are subjective.

I've had very bad, and quite good experiences with fitters. Ask around and find out the reputation of the other shop. Most stores do provide a basic fitting with the purchase of a bike but depending on your needs a more intensive process (for more coin) might serve you well.

[molasses85]

The skills of a professional fitter really do matter. If I had the choice of going to a shop that had the most current fitting "system" but had a fitter with not so much experience or who doesn't know how to listen (and they are out there), or a shop that didn't have a fancy fitting system but had a skilled and talented fitter - I would take the latter every time. The fitting systems are useful, but the users have to understand what fitting is about - it is a very dynamic process and really is about more than simply measurements. Parts of bike fit is certainly objective, but some elements are subjective.

I've had very bad, and quite good experiences with fitters. Ask around and find out the reputation of the other shop. Most stores do provide a basic fitting with the purchase of a bike but depending on your needs a more intensive process (for more coin) might serve you well.

Thanks Catrin...I'd definitely go with the latter choice too. As for asking around I don't know too many riders, but the couple I do I'll see if they're familiar.

Oh, I found in the archives a reference to Serotta system? What is that?

[Owlie]

The skills of a professional fitter really do matter. If I had the choice of going to a shop that had the most current fitting "system" but had a fitter with not so much experience or who doesn't know how to listen (and they are out there), or a shop that didn't have a fancy fitting system but had a skilled and talented fitter - I would take the latter every time. The fitting systems are useful, but the users have to understand what fitting is about - it is a very dynamic process and really is about more than simply measurements. Parts of bike fit is certainly objective, but some elements are subjective.

That. Numbers are a starting point.

Now, I just had my bike fitted (bike shop uses the BG Fit system), and it's like a different bike. There are a few changes that I still need to make (because I'm poor), but it was well worth the money.

[MichelleOH]

Owlie, do you recommend a shop for this?

[Owlie]

Owlie, do you recommend a shop for this?

PMing you.

[Dogmama]

The skills of a professional fitter really do matter. If I had the choice of going to a shop that had the most current fitting "system" but had a fitter with not so much experience or who doesn't know how to listen (and they are out there), or a shop that didn't have a fancy fitting system but had a skilled and talented fitter - I would take the latter every time.

+1. Bottom line - if you aren't comfortable you won't ride.

The guy who fitted me on my Madone took one look & said, "seat needs to come up and stem is too long." Knowing better (not!) I said, "Oh, it feels great, let me ride it like this." 5 miles into my first ride, I knew he was right. I have a wonky neck & slipped lower back vertebrae, so even though the numbers may be right for an average rider, they stretch me out too far.

[molasses85]

Thanks for all the help everyone...I took my bike to the LBS that I bought it from, they spent a little more time on making sure it fit well (no money involved) and the last adjustment seems to be where they think it should work. Arms were in a good position, leg extension good.

They said if I start dealing with clipping in or getting a road bike I can deal with more involved fitting, especially since the road bike will involve a different position.

So far I'm good with it, I'll have to spend the money a little later since my 12-year old dog just had knee surgery today! She's doing well and will be much better when she recovers!

[Maye]

The skills of a professional fitter really do matter. If I had the choice of going to a shop that had the most current fitting "system" but had a fitter with not so much experience or who doesn't know how to listen (and they are out there), or a shop that didn't have a fancy fitting system but had a skilled and talented fitter - I would take the latter every time.

Quoting Catrin here as well!! I got a very basic fit at the shop that I bought the bike and I wasn't satisfied with it so a week ago I went to a very reputable LBS located in Central FL and got their basic fitting. No computers or fancy fitting system involved and the process was very dynamic. It took and hour and a half of getting in and out of the trainer, adjusting cleats, rearranging the seat post (which was too low and causing knee pain). He also studied my body position, they way that I pedaled, my arm position in the handlebar, got a shifting gears class , measured inseam, legs and don't remember what else he measured amongst other things. It was pretty intensive but VERY good!! I definitively recommend it. At the end, he recommended me to change the stem which I'll do later. Here is around $80.00 for a basic fitting. Not bad.