Optimise Performance
As part of the bike fit process, at Fit My Bike we assess the needs of each rider for the type of cycling they want to undertake.
For a lot of riders performance is a key concern whether that be road racing, time trialling, triathlon, sportive. Or being competitive amongst their clubmates. During the bikefitting process, the power output that the rider will be performing at for their event will be simulated to make the fitting as specific as possible. Body position on the bike is always a compromise between the ability to generate power smoothly and efficiently versus reducing aerodynamic drag through a low, narrow position. Too often in the studio we can see that reducing the stack height of the rider whilst getting them lower also impacts their pedalling ability. Ultimately it is a trade-off, which is most important depends on the event type and rider.
Key to becoming more aerodynamic is rider flexibility. An oft overlooked part of training is maintaining flexibility. Yoga and Pilates, as well as improving core strength help keep muscles long. A long muscle is a strong muscle and can only help with injury avoidance. Trying to find a comfortable position for the duration of an event diminishes with reduced flexibility. There is a clear correlation between the available size of the window of fit and flexibility.
Inbuilt Pedalling Analysis
The bikefitting.com jig used in the studio has an inbuilt pedalling analysis feature. Giving real time feedback on how effective and stable the riders pedalling action is. The adjustable crank can be used for testing crank lengths from 155 to 180 mm. Over the years crank arm length and gear ranges have changed considerably. Crank arm length getting shorter and gear ranges getting wider. Take for example Greg Lemond 1.78m tall riding 175mm cranks and Tadej Pogacar at 1.76m tall winning on short 165mm units. The negative impact of crank arm length being too long can be seen most markedly with smaller riders.
Having fitted smaller female riders struggling to get their cadence over 70rpm to all of a sudden achieving 120rpm just by shortening the arm length. This enabled them to get their heel up easier around the back and over the top of the pedal stroke. Similarly, riders with a limited range of motion in their knees also benefit from less lateral knee movement and straighter knee tracking. The bikefitting jig enables us to test different crank arm lengths. Each of the crank arms has a power meter enabling feedback to be gained about each leg and how it helps propel the rider forward.