Finding your optimal drop handlebars
Finding your optimal road handlebar When optimising a cyclist’s position on a bike, there has been extensive research regarding torso, hip and knee angles, or an optimal cleat position on the shoe. There has been research regarding the aerodynamics - particularly regarding the CDA and how to reduce it by reducing a rider’s frontal surface area. There has however, been next to nothing regarding the optimal road handlebar for a given rider nor how they affect a rider’s comfort and performance. The only recommendation, which is not much more than tradition is that handlebars should be [...]
Spatzwear overshoes and gloves to warm up winter cycling
Spatzwear overshoes and gloves to warm up winter cycling Living in Canberra and taking up cycling over 15 years ago has meant I have spent my fair share of winters in the Territory. As a bike fitter, I seek to fit cyclists so that they are in a comfortable position on the bike. This comfort can relate to lack of pain and discomfort in the cycling muscles and joints or on the contact points such as the saddle and handlebars. When it comes to winter, a huge factor is being comfortable is dressing appropriately for the [...]
The long and the short of leg length difference in cycling
The long and the short of leg length difference in cycling Leg length difference is something that comes up quite a bit in my line of work. As an Exercise Physiologist, I've had many patients and clients who have been diagnosed by a health professional as having a leg length difference. That is, one leg is shorter than the other and the difference is causing or contributing to dysfunction and pain. As a bike fitter I have some clients note issues like "one leg feels weaker than the other", "one leg feels stiffer", "I can't reach [...]
The drawbacks of bike fitting done on your own bike
The drawbacks of bike fitting on a trainer With the number of bike fitting methods around, you may be wondering which is the best one for optimising your position. Will the bike shop sizing serve me well? Should I have an angle based fit? A bike brand specific fit. What about having a biomechanist or sports scientist fit me? Is 3D video capture or saddle pressure mapping important? It can be a bit of minefield to wade through the fitters in your local area to decide who you will trust to solve your discomfort or contribute [...]
Case Study: The cycling musician
Bike Fit Case Study: The cycling musician I am fortunate enough to encounter many interesting and diverse clients each year. Everyone has a story to tell... There is no one recipe for every fit. Instead I have a system of assessment that I apply in each bike fit. This, combined with my experience, helps me to find solutions to the client's unique combination of physiology, goals and concerns. Something that I see quite often is a rider with a “twisted pelvis”. There are many causes, each requiring different remedial action. I work hard to avoid [...]