Atlanta Bike Fitting
Bike fit is one of the most important components in rider comfort, but it is also one of the most often overlooked aspects of riding. Proper bike fit helps the rider to be comfortable and efficient. Most shops provide a cursory bike fit when you purchase a bike. However, many riders want a full custom bike fit that they can take from bike to bike. Several Atlanta shops provide such a service. Southeastern Cycling contacted many of the major bike shops in the Atlanta, GA area to see what services they offer. Most did not respond. Bicycles South and Outback Bikes provide insight into their bike fitting techniques. Check with your favorite shop to see if they do custom fittings.
Bicycles South-staff member Brian
1. What is your bike fit philosophy?
We believe that everybody deserves a bike that fits properly. Therefore, we fit EVERYONE with our 'Fit Kit' computer that we've been using since 1987.
2. Do you use any special equipment or measurements when fitting bikes? How do you conduct a fitting?
We use New England Cycling Academy's Fit Kit program in conjunction with a custom designed Cycle Sizer. A basic fitting consists of taking body measurements and plugging them into the program. We also us the RAD device (Rotational Adjustment Device) for Time, Look, and SPD cleats.
3. What types of fittings do you specialize in such as mountain bikes, recreational riders, racers, or everyone?
We specialize in fitting everyone!!
4. How much does the fitting cost and how long does it take?
A basic fitting is a FREE service for anyone shopping for a bike here and only takes about 5 minutes. We do keep the information on file, however it does cost $10 for a customer to take the fit info with them. RAD's do cost $35 and take approx. 45 mins.
5. Who can riders contact for an appointment?
No appointment is necessary on a basic fit. Just come on in. Please call Fred to set up an appt. for a RAD.
6. Should a rider bring their current bicycle or other items?
It is not necessary, but it can not hurt. If your old bike fits perfectly, it will only facilitate making your new bike feel as good.
7. Anything else?
We do offer a "Custom Fit Guarantee". This means that if we need to change certain components to achieve the proper fit, there will be no charge on parts as long as we are using components of comparable quality.
Outback Bicycles-shop owner Pete
1. What is your bike fit philosophy?
My bike fit philosophy, Everyone can benefit from cycling. Then we conduct an
interview with the potential rider about what fitness goals they are seeking. Then based on that move into what type of bike would best suit their needs. If they have a current bike it is always good to use it as a reference but not always is the current bike a great fit.
2. Do you use any special equipment or measurements when fitting bikes? How do you conduct a fitting?
After the interview we size using body type and gender. We do use the FIT KIT System and the Lemond Fitness System which works with the wedge cleat system for better power transfer. Both systems utilize measurements and special tools to guide us through the process.
3. What types of fittings do you specialize in such as mountain bikes, recreational riders, racers, or everyone?
Everyone.
4. How much does the fitting cost and how long does it take?
30 minutes is a normal time. But fittings can run as long as an hour. It really is determined but the riders need. Some fittings are done to correct knee, low back or other issues and may take longer.
5. Who can riders contact for an appointment?
Pete 404-688-4878.
6. Should a rider bring their current bicycle or other items?
Riders should bring existing bike, shorts, shoes & pedals, gloves.
7. Anything else?
Who else does Fittings in a KILT? We will also be getting a new fitting system distributed by Veltec Sports as soon as it becomes available. Lastly I do use a
reference guide by Andy Pruitt which helps with medical issues that cyclists encounter. He helped design Specialized Body Geometry Shoes which stabilize the cyclists foot bed and increase comfort, prevent injuries and increase performance.
Boneshakers-Shop Owner Randy Hendrix
Randy told Southeastern Cycling that he interviews " interview them about their current
bike, compare the old and
new geometry and come up with the best fit." Contact Randy at 770-222-2663.
John Green
John Green does fittings based on the John Cobb (Lance Armstrong's former aero guru) positioning principles. He specializes in road and triathlon fittings but can also do mountain bike. A fitting is approximate $150 plus the cost of parts. John can be contacted at 404-803-0445 or greensocool@yahoo.com.