Best Perth Bike Fit: Here’s What You Need To Know (Updated 2024)
Riding a bike that is correctly fitted to you will improve your pedalling efficiency, power output, and comfort. A proper bike fit involves several key variables, including accurate measurements to determine the fitting protocol, a biomechanical and postural analysis to guide adjustments, and a discussion to assess factors such as training age, experience, and medical history.
Considering the cost of a new bike, a bike fit is a smart investment. It’s advisable to have this consultation before purchasing your bike. This way, not only will your bike be fitted to you correctly, but you will also ensure that you’ve bought the right bike.
Unfortunately, I’ve had many clients come to me after purchasing the wrong bike or components, which can be a costly mistake.
A bike fit is the process of optimizing the rider’s position to improve power, efficiency, and comfort on the bike. It’s increasingly common for cyclists to experience back, knee, or saddle pain if they are not set up correctly.
A bike fit is beneficial for anyone who cycles, particularly if you’re uncomfortable on the bike or have sustained an injury. The goal of a bike fit is to maximize performance, prevent injuries, improve efficiency, and increase your enjoyment when riding.
Why Get a Bike Fit?
Though it may seem counterintuitive, the best time to get a bike fit is before you buy the bike. Understanding which brands, models, sizes, and specific components suit you best will ensure that the bike you purchase is the right fit for you.
Another good reason to get a bike fit is if you’re training for an event or goal. Being in the optimal position before ramping up your training can yield significant benefits.
Finally, if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort while riding, a bike fit can help alleviate these issues by adjusting the bike to suit your unique riding position. Not to mention the reassurance that you are riding in the best possible position for your training goals or cycling events.
What Should You Look for in a Bike Fit?
When seeking a bike fit in Perth, you’ll find many options, which can make it challenging to differentiate between styles.
A professional bike fit is typically conducted with you on the bike, mounted on a trainer. Experienced fitters with an eye for detail can make significant adjustments, often using technology to guide their decisions. The measurements taken can then be applied to your current bike or a new bike you plan to purchase.
Some bike fitters use technology to record your previous and adjusted riding positions, allowing them to monitor the differences. In some cases, key points on the body are marked for critical measurements, such as knee angle and extension. This data provides evidence to guide the fitting process and shows you the impact of minor adjustments.
What to Expect at a Bike Fit
The best bike fits begin with a discussion about your goals, training, injuries, and any discomfort you’re experiencing.
Next, the fitter should assess your core strength and flexibility, as these factors influence the riding position you can maintain comfortably.
Afterward, your cycling shoes and cleats will be evaluated to ensure they’re correctly positioned. If your cleats are worn, it’s a good idea to bring a fresh pair to get the most life out of them after fitting. The fitter will then assess your riding position and make optimizations to improve it.
Following the fitting, you’ll receive a document with your measurements. Keep this on file, especially if you need to adjust or take your bike apart later. Remember, it may take some time to fully adapt to your new position, so provide feedback after spending time in the saddle for any necessary adjustments.
Do I Need a Bike Fit?
If you experience back, neck, knee, or saddle pain, or numbness in your feet or hands, your riding position may not be right for you. I can fit all types of bikes, whether road, triathlon, time trial, cyclocross, mountain bike, or hand cycling bikes, and I have extensive experience with special needs requirements as well.
Professional Perth Bike Fit
I offer professional bike fitting services in Perth that significantly improve comfort, efficiency, and injury prevention, making your cycling experience more enjoyable.
You’ll get the most out of your current bike, or I can help you find a bike that is best suited to your body type and riding goals.
I provide Perth’s most comprehensive and detailed bike fitting service, catering to all types of bikes and cyclists of all levels. With over 20 years of professional experience in bike fitting, I’m here to ensure you achieve the best results.