We'll Fit You Right! Proper Bicycle Fit Basics

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.

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 who needs to be positioned for optimum aerodynamics and speed.

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. Some seats are even available in multiple widths, and we can help you determine what is best for you. Other factors to know more about include: stem length and height; crankarm length; and, what width and shape of handlebars work best for you.

We love helping our customers get the right fit. And if you didn’t buy your bike from us, worry not. Just bring your bike in for a complimentary review of the fit basics so you know what changes, if any, you might want to consider. We look forward to seeing you.

All bikes purchased from Bike Barn include a basic fitting, but many riders greatly benefit from an in-depth professional bike fitting; seeing an increasing their comfort, performance, time in the saddle, and enjoyment. We offer the best fittings available with Specialized's Body Geometry system developed by Dr. Andy Pruitt of the Boulder Center for Sports Medicine. These fittings are dynamic - so they are based on how your body works while riding, rather than other systems which simply measure the length of your body parts and forcing you into preset positions not based on your unique needs and performance issues.

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