In my 16 years of fitting, the last three with Retul equipment, I have never seen a client with a position as far forward as the gentleman I fit yesterday. For those without Retul experience, the suggested range for knee forward of foot in a Tri/TT position is 50-100mm.In a large percentage of the Tri/TT fits I've done( probably 200 or so with the Retul equipment), I've moved the client forward to some extent. I've often struggled with older TT frames, except Cervelos, to get the client far enough forward to be within this range. This particular client measured 133mm knee forward of foot on his Softride Rocket, a position not even possible on most other bikes. He has done 14 IMs in this position and wanted me to explain in detail why I suggested that we move him back. After talking about overall balance on the bike and that much has already been written about the Softride's reluctance to turn, he asked about power production. I again talked about a balance between hip flexor/quad usage and we moved him back 20mm front end and saddle. He then stated that it felt like I had put him in a "no man's land" and that he could feel his quads being worked more. I explained why this was and we agreed to continue the fit after he put in some time in this new position.
I would like to get some comment on this situation and what other fitters might do in a situation like this one.
I would like to get some comment on this situation and what other fitters might do in a situation like this one.