ProRaceMechanic
Maximum Pace
- Dec 31, 2009
- 907
- 89
This is some explanation of my fitting process.
The fit takes around 2 hours and starts out with general questions and a discussion of goals. Several standardized flexibility tests are performed. The goal of the fit is not only to get the rider as aerodynamically efficient as possible, but to ensure that the body is working as efficient as possible.
The foot is the root of the fit and it gets the time it deserves. The foot's gate is measured with a forefoot measuring device. This is done to pinpoint indifference's between feet and also to help determine if wedging is necessary. It is sometimes necessary to incorporate cleat wedges and shims to correct inefficiencies in the pedal stroke. Arch is looked after by support or in some cases new shoes are recommended. A poor fitting shoe can be what is making you get dropped and can cause a multiple of other problems. It is recommended that new cleats are brought to the fit.
Time is spent measuring body length, but the main focus is to monitor and adjust what happens on the bike. Slow motion video analysis that tracks limb movement in conjunction with lasers help me get the rider as square as possible on the bike and being mechanically placed so that they are less prone to injury and able to perform at their peak. Time is spent during the video analysis to ensure proper pedaling technique is performed. You are able to watch your pedal stroke in real time on a screen in front of you and tweak as neccesary.
There is no magic mathematical equation when it comes to stem length. This is determined by on the bike testing done with a modifiable stem that is adjusted while on the bike. You leave the fit with knowing that you have the perfect length stem. Stem length can vary over the year. Colder months can tighten your back. Also the addition of heavy clothing can affect the comfort of your position. Recommendations are made to get you through the season.
A goniometer is used to measure all major angles of the body. These numbers are important and offer a range to work within, but the riders muscle elasticity is paramount when making final decisions. That goes for saddle adjustments as well.
When all is done, the data derived, including all video, is put onto a flash drive and mailed to the customer. Here are a few photos from my personal practice.
The fit takes around 2 hours and starts out with general questions and a discussion of goals. Several standardized flexibility tests are performed. The goal of the fit is not only to get the rider as aerodynamically efficient as possible, but to ensure that the body is working as efficient as possible.
The foot is the root of the fit and it gets the time it deserves. The foot's gate is measured with a forefoot measuring device. This is done to pinpoint indifference's between feet and also to help determine if wedging is necessary. It is sometimes necessary to incorporate cleat wedges and shims to correct inefficiencies in the pedal stroke. Arch is looked after by support or in some cases new shoes are recommended. A poor fitting shoe can be what is making you get dropped and can cause a multiple of other problems. It is recommended that new cleats are brought to the fit.
Time is spent measuring body length, but the main focus is to monitor and adjust what happens on the bike. Slow motion video analysis that tracks limb movement in conjunction with lasers help me get the rider as square as possible on the bike and being mechanically placed so that they are less prone to injury and able to perform at their peak. Time is spent during the video analysis to ensure proper pedaling technique is performed. You are able to watch your pedal stroke in real time on a screen in front of you and tweak as neccesary.
There is no magic mathematical equation when it comes to stem length. This is determined by on the bike testing done with a modifiable stem that is adjusted while on the bike. You leave the fit with knowing that you have the perfect length stem. Stem length can vary over the year. Colder months can tighten your back. Also the addition of heavy clothing can affect the comfort of your position. Recommendations are made to get you through the season.
A goniometer is used to measure all major angles of the body. These numbers are important and offer a range to work within, but the riders muscle elasticity is paramount when making final decisions. That goes for saddle adjustments as well.
When all is done, the data derived, including all video, is put onto a flash drive and mailed to the customer. Here are a few photos from my personal practice.