IBFI Conference Programme 2026

In this keynote, Happy Freedman explores how airway, posture, and the rider’s tipping point influence comfort, efficiency, and sustainability in modern bike fitting. Drawing on clinical and field experience, this session highlights why skilled assessment and observation remain central to achieving truly rider-centred fit outcomes.

Cycling has seen a surge in aerodynamic innovation—but rising speeds bring rising risks. In this talk, UCI Equipment & Technology Manager Emmanuel Brunet explores how new equipment rules, rider positioning, and protective gear can help regulate performance while prioritising rider safety.

Dr Hedwig Neels tackles the often-ignored issue of genitoperineal complaints in cyclists—from soreness and numbness to swelling and skin damage. Learn how bike fit, clothing, skincare, and evidence-based treatments can prevent and manage these issues, improve rider comfort, and boost performance across all levels of cycling.

Phil Burt dives into why stance width could be the next major breakthrough in bike fitting. Building on lessons from crank length, he explores how foot position impacts comfort, power, and injury risk—sharing real-world insights that can help every cyclist perform better, from elite athletes to everyday riders.

As bike fitters our primary role is to harmonize the relationship between a human and a machine.  There are particular challenges and opportunities where the primary contact points of the body meet the bike.

The greatest area of opportunity is in the foot to pedal transition zone. We’ll look at recent trends in footwear design and take a deeper dive into the thinking behind the latest in fully custom shoes.

The interaction between rider and bicycle is defined by three contact points. Saddle load provides a key indicator of postural stability, efficiency and potential discomfort. We explore the biomechanical relevance of saddle load: What does it reveal about position? How can it be measured accurately? And which adjustments can we apply to optimise weight distribution?

This presentation covers the key takeaways from recent research papers and how to turn that data into everyday decisions in the bike fit studio. The talk discusses evidence-based ranges as guidelines for optimal performance and injury risk, and how to approach the rider who does not fit into those ranges.

This lecture explores how hip mobility, strength, and control impact cycling performance. It covers common issues like femoral acetabular impingement, how to distinguish true hamstring tightness from nerve or spine-related restrictions, and when to refer clients to a medical professional.

exploring how joint replacement impacts return to riding, performance, and long-term mobility. Drawing on current research and clinical experience, it will highlight key factors influencing rehabilitation outcomes and provide insights for bike fitters working with post-TKA cyclists.

The toughest fit problems aren’t the ones you can’t solve—they’re the ones you don’t realise exist. This session uncovers the blind spots that separate good outcomes from true mastery, and shows how exposing them accelerates both rider results and fitter growth.

In this short address, IBFI President Lee Prescott reviews the progress of the Institute over the past two years, outlining key developments in standards, education, and professional recognition. The session also looks ahead, sharing IBFI’s vision for the future and its role in shaping the next phase of bike fitting worldwide.