The art of bike fitting: optimize your comfort and performance

27/08/2024 Par Gabriel Courtois

Cycling is much more than just a physical activity. Whether you’re a long-distance touring enthusiast or have performance goals in mind, proper positioning on your bike is the key to riding comfortably and efficiently. All too often, discomfort is ignored and taken for granted. Yet a poor fit can lead to long-term problems. That’s where a bike fitting comes in.

Why Should You Get a Bike Fitting?

Regardless of your level or the type of bike you use, proper positioning guarantees optimal comfort. Whether you’ve just bought a new bike or your cycling goals are evolving, making sure your frame is perfectly adjusted to your body is the first step towards an enjoyable, pain-free ride. A bike fitting aims to eliminate or reduce discomfort while maximizing your performance on the road.

Who Can Carry Out a Bike Fitting Assessment?

The assessment is carried out by a positioning technician or physiotherapist specialized in cycling. These pros have undergone certification offered by Physiovélo, a Quebec-based company specializing in continuing education for cycling since 2015. With hundreds of hours of training under their belts, they’re perfectly equipped to help you optimize your positioning.

The Five-Step Assessment Process

The bike-positioning assessment takes place in five well-structured steps to ensure a precise, personalized fit:

Form to fill out and bike inspection: Before the assessment, you fill out a detailed form about your cycling habits, goals and any previous injuries. The technician also inspects your bike to make sure it’s safe and in good condition for the evaluation.
Subjective evaluation: The technician takes the time to discuss your goals, your pedaling technique, your shoes, and any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing while riding.
Objective evaluation off the bike: A few simple tests are carried out to assess your mobility, muscle strength and quality of movement. This gives a clear idea of any adjustments needed.
Objective assessment on the bike: After a thorough warm-up, the technician analyzes your pedaling biomechanics. Every aspect of your posture is scrutinized: ankles, knees, hips, back, shoulders, even the position of your hands. This stage is carried out in your shoes, on a training rack, to reproduce as closely as possible your usual pedaling patterns.
Recommendations: At the end of the assessment, the technician will give you detailed feedback on their observations and the adjustments made. You’ll also receive personalized advice on your cycling regimen, as well as recommendations on possible equipment modifications, such as changing your saddle.

A Word of Advice Before Your First Appointment

For the best evaluation, don’t forget to bring your bike, your cycling shoes, your biking shorts with the least comfortable padding, and all your bike’s removable accessories. Yes, even your helmet can make a difference!

The Importance of Good Positioning

Regardless of your cycling experience or ambitions, a bike fitting with a professional is a crucial step to riding with pleasure and avoiding mishaps. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, our physiotherapist is here to offer you advice tailored to your experience and goals.

With the right fitting, you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence, comfort and, above all, without pain. Ride well, ride happy!

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