As I mentioned earlier today, there was a bit of a discussion surrounding Jon’s fit on his new Icarus over on the NYC Fixed boards. It’s easy to see someone standing with their bike and say that the bike is either too big or too small for them. So much goes into custom measurements and fit that it’s kinda hard to look at a custom bicycle and say that it’s not fit for a rider. Especially when experts describe riding a bike that’s custom sized as “riding in the bike”, versus “riding on the bike”. One thing’s for sure, Jon went through many steps to ensure this bike fit him perfectly.
Check out more below.
Jon consulted with his physical therapist and fit expert Greg Robidoux at The Cycling PT to work on the exact measurements he needed. Going to someone like Greg really ensures your fit is perfect for not only your body but your cycling form and habits. The end result is eerie. Jon sent me this photo with his geometry sheet overlaid on top after I sent him my photos. Pretty spot on right?
You can read all the ins and outs of Jon’s process for this bike over at Arc En Ciel. If you’re considering a custom bicycle, I’d suggest you give it a read! It’s very informative.
But all that is only half of bicycle fitting. What about biometrics and technique?
That’s where my buddy Brett Cleaver‘s recent experience comes in:
“I recently went to Signature Cycles to be sized up by fit-master Paul Levine. He took one look and determined my saddle was too high. Paul then discovered I was reaching too far, so he suggested a shorter stem (without such an extreme drop). He shot some video of me during my fit on the Serotta Size Cycle. The entire process took about 2 hours. I did everything from flexibility tests, to an interview, to hopping back and forth between bikes. Paul sent me the video clips and I cobbled them together in iMovie. Sure, it’s no 21st Ave Bikes movie, but hopefully Mr. Levine doesn’t regret sending me the clips.”
Now that’s precision and it brings up a good point. Never ride on the bike. Ride in the bike. Every little detail matters and that’s why saddle angle, saddle to bar drop and everything else having to do with your bike’s set up can affect how you ride.
Anyone else got any fitting stories to share? Please do!
