Fitting
How well your bicycle fits you determines a lot. It can mean the difference between comfort and pain, fast and slow, safe and unsafe.
Proper fitting starts with selecting the right size bike frame. Most of our bikes are not one-size-fits-all, but rather, come in different frame measurements to help you obtain the best overall fit. Frame size is usually measured along the length of the seat tube (the tube which supports a bike’s seat and seatpost). While measurement standards vary a bit between different manufacturers, we can help you determine the ideal range of sizes that would offer you your best match to your body type and riding style.
What does body type have to do with fit? Well, have you ever heard someone say, “He’s a tall drink of water” or “She’s all legs”? The point is: Each of us has a different body style. And this has to be taken into account when fitting for a bike.
What’s Your Riding Style?
How does your riding style relate to proper fit? Let’s say you want to cruise the bike paths on a bike that lets you sit upright where you get a good view of the scenery. That calls for a different frame size, bike type and fit approach than, say, a time-trial racer or triathlete who needs to be positioned for optimum aerodynamics and speed.
Better Bike Parts Can Be Adjusted
Beyond frame size, other components of a bike also contribute greatly to a good fit. Take seats, for instance. What’s the best height for your bike seat? How far forward or back of center is your correct seat position? The tilt of the seat is also adjustable. Other factors to know more about include: stem length and height; crankarm length; and, what width and shape of handlebars work best for you.
No Matter Where You Bought Your Bike, Great Fit Starts Here
We offer a range of fitting services, all of which offer one-on-one time with a Certified Fit Technician. Below you’ll find a complete description of our fitting services. So that we may devote uninterrupted time to your fitting needs, please call to schedule your appointment at (315) 446-6816 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (315) 446-6816 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.
| Road Bicycle Fit – $89
Many people experience discomfort while riding their bikes. Neck and shoulder pain, numbness and pain in the soles of their feet or hands are just a few of the common discomforts that many cyclists experience. A bicycle fitting at Syracuse Bicycle can greatly increase rider comfort and efficiency as well as provide feedback on pedal stroke and power transmission. During a brief interview process, your Fit Technician will get an understanding of your existing fit issues and establish goals for the fitting process. The Fit Technician will place your bike on an indoor trainer and observe your position on the bike and pedaling dynamics. Immediate adjustments are often possible. Significant changes (major change in seat height, fore/aft position of the saddle) to the existing bike will be mapped out and are generally undertaken over the course of several weeks. Time Required: 45 – 90 minutes |
| Triathlon Fit – $129
In seeking to improve and maximize the results of your training, it is important that your bike position be biomechanically sound and as efficient as your body will allow. This begins with a professional bike fit. The Triathlon fit process is similar to the Existing Bike Fit, but the parameters for the outcome are quite different. Achieving comfort is still a critical goal of the fit, but doing so in the context of an aerodynamically positive position is the key to the fitting. Additionally, correct aero bar set up is an added component to the Tri Fit session. Time Required: 60-120 minutes |
| Custom Size Cycle Fitting Session – $225If you are planning on a custom bike purchase, the starting point is a Size Cycle Fitting. This process involves an extensive interview between you and a Certified Fit Technician to document your riding style, your degree of physical flexibility, and your goals for the new bike. The interview process will allow you to prioritize characteristics that you are looking for in the new bike such as handling, overall weight, stiffness, comfort, etc. Step 2 of the fit session involves riding the Size Cycle, which is a completely adjustable, stationary bike. The Fit Technician can make numerous adjustments to this piece of equipment, allowing you to experience a range of different frame geometries, stem lengths, and handlebar heights. So that together, you and the Technician can document every bit of information necessary to create a bicycle that is completely balanced, aesthetically pleasing, tuned to your riding preferences and that fits you perfectly.
Time Required: 120-150 minutes |
| Cleat Fitting – $25We utilize the R.A.D. system designed by the smart people at The Fit Kit. This cleat alignment tool enables us to find the rotational center and proper alignment for setting up clipless pedals. This helps to ensure proper alignment of the shoe on the pedal guaranteeing maximal power transfer, proper knee alignment and increased comfort. This process can play a critical role in preventing knee injury as well as help with pre-existing knee issues.
Time Required: 30 minutes |
***For some fit adjustments, we may suggest a new stem, saddle, and/or seatpost and may require new cables. Separate charges will apply for parts and labor.***
