correct diy bike setup

rob39

I know we should all have our bikes sized and fitted by specialist but do we?
Does anyone know of a formular for diy road bike setup. My frame is the right size but its getting those final adjustments correct. seat height ( ive heard 107% and 109% of inside seam) reach ( hearsd length of fore arm + a couple of fingers?)and seat fore and aft measurement etc.

redddraggon

rob39 wrote:

I know we should all have our bikes sized and fitted by specialist but do we?

Why should we? You can work out the height of the seatpost by trial and error, and find what's most comfortable by yourself, and do similar for stem length.

Unless you've got biomechanical (?) or medical problems, like a bad back etc, I think most people should be able to work out what is comfortable for themselves.

You should quickly be able to get a feel of what sort of reach you like, what sort of drop from saddle to bars you prefer. You can then replicate these values from bike to bike.

A specialised fitting might be useful and enlightening for the majority, but I wouldn't say it was necessary for the majority.

Gussio

For my road bike, I was measured on a jig prior to selecting a frame and components that would would suit me best. Since the original build I haven't had to alter anything and find the ride to be exceedingly comfortable. Grateful for this when spending hours in the saddle, effectively in the same position.

On the other hand, I've never been measured for an MTB, where it could be argued that exact sizing is less important because you are moving around the bike more and changing position.

synchronicity

I've never gone to get fitted because I already know my size.

The best way to determine your size is to go for a ride on as many bikes as possible...

Bronzie

You may find this guide helpful:
http://www.abcc.co.uk/Articles/roadbike1.html

jed1978

if your leg is just under fully straigt on pedal at bottom of its rotation you will be at the point where pedalling efficiency is highiest.

keith57

After riding for about 6 months I went for a fitting at http://www.mosquito-bikes.co.uk/ One of the best things I ever did for riding on the bike. Fit is now comfortable and I feel much more efficient and powerful on the bike. It took over 2 hours and is very comprehensive. Covers more than you'd think - measures things like proper shoe size, cleat adjustment, leg movement - one knee used to splay outwards a bit - it doesn't now, and so on. Elements of coaching for best back position were covered which I didn't know about beforehand.

As you can't easily see your own position on the bike how can you really tell you have the 'best' position? Can you really tell what is the most efficient just by feel? The new position did feel 'different' for a few rides and took a little while to get used to. If I'd been experimenting myself would I have stuck with a different position or gone back to what I as used to? Try it - you might like being able to pedal longer and faster like I did!

The cost was quite small compared to the cost of my bike kit so I felt it was a good investment for me