I have recently set up a new tri bike and followed Dan’s formula for overall fit including proper drop of aerobars relative to saddle height. It is lower than I used to ride on a converted road bike and although I feel faster I get pain in my neck and shoulders after about 20 miles. My guess is that I just need to get used to this new more aggressive position and the pain will go away as my neck muscles simply get used to it. It seems intuitive to me that my neck has to flex more (to look forward) with a lower cockpit position. Is this pretty common? Should I be concerned about this?
Mike
Mike,
This is very common! I actually talked with Slowman himself about this about a decade ago. He simply said that if set up properly that I needed to spend more time in the aero position to adapt the specific muscles. So, spend more time riding in that position. Also, behind the neck chin ups helped me.
Best wishes,
You’ll have to try it and see if you can adapt. Some people just can’t get comfortable in the aggressive position, particularly if they do have neck problems and/or disc degeneration. Some people don’t have the natural lordotic curve in their spine but instead have a strait “military neck”. These people might find riding aggressive more difficult.
IMO bike fit is a balance of three components - aerodynamics, power and comfort. The aggressive position is best for aero but for many people it sacrifices power or comfort. Comfort is the most important component. If you can’t get comfy in that position then find another that works better for you.
It took me about 3-400 miles to get fully accustomed to the low in front position. When I first got setup, I could barely ride 10 miles without my neck and shoulders being sore from holding up my neck. Now I can ride almost forever in the bars. It just takes time