Bike fit is one of those little things that many beginners disregard. This is especially true if you buy a bike online or from a big retailer like Walmart. A properly fitting bike is more comfortable, but it can also help you improve your pedaling efficiency and avoid injury.
A bike fit will work for you only if you have bought the correct bike size for your body.
Still, many people are turned off by the cost of a professional bike fit.
How much does a bike fit cost?
You can expect to pay between $50 and $250 for a professional bike fit ( standard studio fitting ). The exact cost will depend on the type of bike you have, the complexity of your fitting, and the location of the bike shop.
For example, in New York, expect to spend at least $150 for a proper bike fit. In other cheaper areas in America, bike shops offer an appropriate bike fit for less than $50.
Also, consider the fact that there are different types of bike fits.
Read more: How Often to Tune Up Bike
What’s the best type of bike fit?
Standard Fitting/Studio Set-Up:
This is the most common and affordable type of bike fit. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for this bike fit. It’s excellent for beginners with hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, and entry-level road bikes.
You will usually have your bike placed on a trainer in a studio setting. The fitter will use various tools to help you find the perfect position on your bike.
High Tech Fitting/Studio Set-Up:
This bike fit is similar to the standard fit but with the addition of high-tech gadgets. This can include 3D motion capture systems and pressure mapping devices. Experienced cyclists riding road bikes often opt for this option.
You can expect to pay between $200 and $250 for this bike fit.
What tool would you use to measure a bike?
Retul 3D motion capture machine.
A Retul 3D motion capture machine is a tool used to measure a bike. It uses sensors to track the movement of the cycle and rider. This information is used to create a 3D model of the bike and rider. This allows the fitter to find the perfect position.
The Retul 3D motion capture machine is a very accurate tool many professional bike fitters use. However, it is also costly. The cost of this machine ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. Therefore, it is not a tool you will find in most local bike shops.
SpinScan Pedal Stroke Analyzer
The SpinScan Pedal Stroke Analyzer is a tool used to measure pedal stroke. It measures the force and direction of the pedal stroke. This information is used to improve the rider’s pedaling efficiency.
How do you do a bike fitting yourself?
Many people will try to do a bike fitting themselves using online guides. This is not ideal, as you need someone experienced to help you. That said, if you want to give it a go, here are a few tips:
- Get a friend or family member to help you
- Measure your inseam (the distance from your crotch to the ground)
- Measure the distance from your saddle to the handlebars
- Adjust your saddle height so that your knee is slightly bent when you pedal
- Adjust your handlebar height so that you’re not hunched over
- Make sure your pedals are in line with the balls of your feet
Final Thoughts
At YesCycling HQ, we always recommend that beginners pay for a professional bike fit with their first bike. Once you learn how your body works in sync with your bike ( with a few years of experience ), you can do a simple bike fitting yourself.
