In this blog post, we delve into the comprehensive bike fitting session conducted for my road bike.

amitrkamat
Aug 28, 2024
3 min read

The fitting resulted in several key adjustments that have significantly improved comfort, efficiency, and overall riding experience. We'll explore the original bike fitting report, the enhancements made, and provide visual illustrations to help understand the changes.

The bike fitting session conducted on 23/8/2024 provided a detailed analysis of my riding position, bike setup, and areas that required adjustment. The report included measurements of saddle height, handlebar reach, cleat position, and more, which were crucial in identifying potential areas for improvement.

Based on the bike fitting report, several enhancements were implemented to optimize my riding position. These included:

1. Saddle Position and Height:

Adjustment Made: Your saddle height was increased by +14mm. This adjustment was necessary to bring your knees into a more optimal position, improving your power output and reducing the risk of knee pain.
Recommendation: Continue to monitor your knee comfort during long rides. If discomfort persists, consider slight adjustments to the saddle angle or position. A professional re-evaluation might be beneficial after a few weeks of riding with the new setup.

2. Handlebar Reach and Height:

Adjustment Made: The handlebar reach was reduced by 30mm, and the height was lowered by 10mm. This adjustment was likely made to reduce the feeling of being overly stretched out, which can cause discomfort in your lower back and shoulders.
Recommendation: Ensure that your back remains straight and relaxed, especially on longer rides. If you experience any discomfort in your neck or shoulders, you might need to further fine-tune the handlebar position. A slightly shorter stem or additional spacers might be considered if the issue persists.

3. Cleat Position:

Adjustment Made: The cleat position was moved 6mm backward. This adjustment helps to optimize the pedal stroke and reduce pressure on the forefoot, addressing issues like numbness.
Recommendation: Pay attention to how your feet feel during and after rides. If you still experience numbness or foot discomfort, you may want to explore different insole options or further cleat adjustments.

4. Footwear and Cleat Tightness:

Observation: The report noted that your shoes were loosened to alleviate numbness in the right foot.
Recommendation: Ensure that your shoes are snug but not overly tight. Consider experimenting with different sock thicknesses or insoles to improve comfort. Proper shoe fit is crucial in preventing numbness and ensuring efficient power transfer.

5. Riding Posture:

Observation: Your posture was adjusted to achieve a more neutral fit, which is balanced and should reduce the strain on your body.
Recommendation: Focus on maintaining a relaxed upper body and engage your core muscles while riding. This will help in maintaining stability and reducing strain on your lower back and wrists. Regular stretching and core-strengthening exercises can further enhance your posture on the bike.

6. Saddle Setback:

Suggestion: The report mentioned that more saddle setback could be beneficial.
Recommendation: Experiment with slightly more saddle setback to see if it enhances comfort and performance. This adjustment can improve your weight distribution and reduce pressure on sensitive areas.

7. Regular Reassessments:

Observation: Your fit is currently neutral, but bodies and riding styles can change.
Recommendation: Regularly reassess your bike fit, especially after significant changes in your riding volume or intensity. It might also be helpful to revisit the fitting every six months to ensure the setup remains optimal as your flexibility and strength evolve.

Conclusion:

The adjustments made during your bike fitting have likely improved your comfort and efficiency on the bike. By paying close attention to how your body responds to these changes during rides, and making slight adjustments as needed, you should experience a noticeable improvement in your overall cycling experience. Regularly revisiting your fit and making incremental changes based on your feedback will help maintain and enhance these benefits over time.