I just returned from Vegas and stopped by a local bike shop while I was visiting. There was a computer based bike fit, but the manager of the bike shop stated, you have to pick out a bike that you would like and then you are tweaked to fit. He basically stated that it is incorrect to fit a individual first and then pick out the bike that fits. I understand some of this makes sense, but then again some of it doesn’t. This is where things get so confusing for someone whom is either wanting to buy a new road bike, tri-bike or entry level bike for the first time. If I went to a bike shop, I would trust what the person tells me…why wouldn’t I? I have heard so many different opinions on bike fitting…what is the TRUTH? I have always understood that you get fitted first, then you will be told what bike would be good for you.
When I bought my first race bike 16 years ago I went to 3 bike shops. They all did numerous measurements for me and provided and analysis of the bike geometry that would fit me best. I then spent about 3 months researching the bike goemetry that best fit these measurements. Trust me…they are all different. A size 56 is not always a size 56 and so forth.
I beleive that you need to find a bike with the closest geometry to your body type and proportions. I’d love a Cervelo but the head tubes are tiny and I would not be able to make it fit. I need a tall head tube and yet I have 17-19cm drop from seat to elbow pads. You can’t just buy a bike and make something fit like that.
A bike fit is no more than the mating of a machine that has a certain degree of adjustability with a human body that has a certain degree of adaptability. Measurements are one thing, but dynamic movement and flexibility are also factors that should be taken into account.
I’ve had numerous bikes of similiar size frame but with slightly different geometries, top/seat/head tube lengths etc but have made them all fit quite well with adjustments to stems length/angle, seat fore/aft, seat height, bar height, etc, etc.
The secret is starting off with the most appropriate size frame and working from there. I have fairly “normal” body proportions so could probably fit a wide range of similiar sized bikes off the shelf with appropriate adjustments.
People with unusual body proportions may benefit from a custom build, but this is actually only a small % that genuinely need this.
Try to to learn as much about bike fitting yourself rather than be at the mercy of someone else who may or may not know what they’re talking about.
Road bikes IMO, are easier to fit than tri bikes. If you’re looking for road bike fit there are a number of fit calculators and websites that may be helpful.
Tri bikes are a bit more complicated because there are variables such as how steep you wish to ride, how much drop your neck and crotch can handle, etc. Read all Slowman’s articles on the main page and you’ll have a good understanding of tri bike fit.
Thanks guys for your information! I am truly learning more and more about “bikes” which will be helpful when I purchase my new “road bike”. I am not a triathlete, so I don’t think I need a tri-bike. I have often wondered if doing 2-4 duathlons a year I should purchase a tri-bike, but I still don’t think it is necessary. Now my dear friend who is a triathlete would differ! I have a WSD Giant OCR 3 right now, but I am ready to move up!! I love my bike, but it is heavy and I am not comfortable on it. My butt hurts, my arms hurt (pressure on my shoulders) and I feel as if I am laying over the handlebars. I was never fitted for this bike, but based on my height this was the correct size. I am beginning to not enjoy cycling due to this. I test road a Cannondale (geez, I can not even remember the name) and the sales guy was asking me “how do you feel”. First off, how can I really feel comfortable on a bike with toe clips (that I don’t use) and are scraping the ground. Second, the seat was too high (well at least it felt like it to me). Do I have “stupid” written on my forehead just because I am a female? I think so sometimes…geez!!
I will continue to do my research and I hope to buy a new road bike soon!!