Do I Need a Bike Fitting?

Driving around town the other day I saw so many people who were so obviously uncomfortable on their bikes (and suffering a loss of efficiency because of their lack of comfort along with other factors).  So, since so much of my material is inspired by my experiences - I was inspired to write another post: A few quick pointers on how to know if you need someone to assess your bike fit.

Fitting a Cyclocross Bike

JUST A LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM MY OTHER BIKE...

Well, yes and no. 

As I have discussed (at length) before - there is a lot of good and bad info out there about bike fitting and selecting the right size frame.  One of the more common topics I run into this time of year is how to select the right size of Cyclocross bike.

A common guideline I have heard is that you ought to size-down from your road bike frame size to obtain the right 'cross frame.  As a universal guideline, this couldn't be moreWRONG!  There are instances where this may apply, but I would say that they are rare now. It is a unique bike and just like you wouldn't adjust your road bike a "little different from your road bike"; treat your cyclocross bike like and individual and get it right.

Introducing: Pick up and Delivery!

Yup, your mechanic and fitter now delivers! Pizza Hut ain't got nuthin' on me.

I've long thought that there had to be a better way to meet the needs of my clients than the traditional store model. I've been working with a few of my closest clients lately and we're really enjoying working together in this fashion - so I'm opening my schedule a little more and can't wait to help.

My service and fitting prices now include picking up and delivering your bike.  No worry about having to make it to the store before closing in order to keep your appointment. We arrange an appointment around when you need your bike serviced and when and where you'd like to have it picked up and delivered.  I do the rest.

We're finding that this allows for more timely turn around times and keeps the bike with you more - which is the only way you can ride it; by the way.

Additionally, this allows me to create appointments for fitting of bicycles on Saturday! Yes you read that right - Saturday. Not too many places offer Saturday fitting; but it is often the best day of the week for you. I can help.

Sound good? Let's talk.

How to Prepare for Your Bike Fitting

To help you plan and prepare for your fitting appointment:
 
     - Platinum Elite Fitting may take up to 3 hours; but I'm usually done in 2 - 2.5 hours.
     - Gold Fittings take about 1 hour 
     - A Basic Bicycle Sizing takes about 30 minutes.   
     - Cleat Fitting takes about 45 minutes
     - The Aero-Add-On (for TT and tri bikes) adds about 30 min. for the second hand position.

With the Platinum and Gold Fitting we begin just by discussing your activity and riding history, riding style, and injury history. A quick physiological assessment follows where we look at flexibility, strength, and symmetry to discover how we will expect you to sit on the bike and where we can improve while minimizing discomfort and injury potential. Finally, we'll get you on the bike and begin making adjustments.

In the days approaching your fitting, be thinking about the symptoms you notice while you ride that have you concerned. If you are pain- or discomfort-free - think about your objectives: how would you like to improve your riding position or cycling.

• Wear your regular riding shorts and have your cycling shoes ready (but you don't need to wear them when we begin). After that; dress however you are comfortable.
• A space approximately 8-10 feet square is adequate. I've used plenty of clients' garages; but have used kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms and offices too! Feel free to have us work where you're most comfortable - I'm flexible.
• You may want to have a fan and a towel handy for your comfort as you will spend a measurable time riding your bike. I am not always able to bring these items with me.
• You don't need to have an indoor stationary trainer; I always bring mine.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to email me (allegrobike {at} gmail {dot} com) and I'll gladly answer them.

Departure from Sunset Cycles

There are many who read my blog who are regular customers of mine.  Some of you I have been able to contact; others I have not.  For those of you who do not already know - here is the latest as I do not want anyone to be surprised: