The Art and Science of Bike Fitting: A Journey Towards Better Cyclist Experiences

by Curtis Cramblett. PT, CSCS, CFMT, IBFI 4, CAFS

Understanding the Importance of Listening in Bike Fitting

After three decades as a physical therapist and twenty-five years immersed in the art and science of bike fitting, I thought I had seen it all. I’d meticulously measured knee angles, optimized cleat positions, and adjusted countless saddle heights. My approach was, by all conventional standards, thorough. Yet, there were moments, unsettlingly frequent at times, when I'd finish a fit, proud of the numbers and positions achieved, only to have a cyclist look at me with a polite, but undeniably deflating, "It’s interesting. My hands actually feel heavier."

This seemingly innocuous comment, uttered after I’d made what I believed to be all the "right" changes, became a pivotal moment in my career. It was a jolt, a sudden realization that despite all the objective data I was collecting, I was missing the most critical piece of evidence: the cyclist's actual experience. I was so focused on my tools, my processes, and my numbers that I had become deaf to the signal through the noise—their chief complaint, their reason for seeking my help in the first place.

The Shift to an Evidence-Informed Fit Process

This led me to an "evidence-informed" fit process, one that starts not with the bike, but with the human being on it. The first step is simply, profoundly, to listen. What are their primary goals? To go faster? To alleviate pain? To ride comfortably for 100 miles? These become our "objective asterisks," or as I like to call them, "signposts"—measurable, observable, or quantifiable metrics directly related to their desired outcome. For hand numbness, the signpost isn't just a torso angle; it's the subjective feeling of "heaviness in the hands."

Formulating Hypotheses and Intervening

Once we’ve established these crucial signposts, the process unfolds with a scientific rigor that is also deeply human. We form a hypothesis: "I believe their hand numbness is caused by X (e.g., stem too long, tight thoracic spine)." Then, we intervene, making one targeted change. And here’s the magic, the true test of our hypothesis: we immediately recheck the signposts. Did their hands go from "heavy" to "light"? Did their locked elbows suddenly bend?

The Power of Rechecking and Learning

It’s in this moment of rechecking, by asking open-ended, non-leading questions and quantifying subjective experiences (e.g., "On a scale of 1 to 10, how heavy do your hands feel now?"), that we move beyond being mere technicians. We become cycling analysts, learning in real-time what truly impacts our client. Sometimes, the unexpected happens—a cleat adjustment, seemingly unrelated to hand numbness, dramatically reduces the pressure. These "surprises" aren't failures; they are profound learning opportunities, revealing the intricate, interconnected system of body and bike.

Building Trust Through Iteration

This iterative loop of listening, hypothesizing, intervening, and rechecking is not just about solving problems; it's about building trust, fostering self-management, and ultimately, making a tangible, felt difference in our cyclists' lives.

The Role of Education in Bike Fitting

Education plays a crucial role in this process. By continually updating our knowledge and skills, we can better serve our clients. Attending workshops, reading the latest research, and engaging with other professionals in the field can enhance our understanding of bike fitting. This commitment to education not only improves our practice but also elevates the entire profession.

The Importance of Community

Being part of a community of bike fitters can provide invaluable support. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes with peers can lead to new insights and approaches. Networking opportunities, such as conferences and online forums, allow us to connect with others who share our passion for cycling and bike fitting.

Embracing Technology

In today's digital age, technology can significantly enhance the bike fitting process. Tools such as motion capture systems, pressure mapping, and software for data analysis can provide deeper insights into a cyclist's performance. By embracing these technologies, we can refine our fitting techniques and offer more precise adjustments.

The Future of Bike Fitting

As the cycling industry evolves, so too must our approach to bike fitting. Staying abreast of trends, such as the rise of e-bikes and advancements in bike design, will be essential. By adapting our methods to accommodate these changes, we can ensure that our clients receive the best possible service.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Excellence

In conclusion, the journey of bike fitting is one of continuous learning and adaptation. By prioritising the cyclist's experience, embracing education, fostering community, and utilising technology, we can elevate our practice. This commitment to excellence not only benefits our clients but also enhances the reputation of bike fitters everywhere.

Ultimately, it is our responsibility to ensure that every cyclist leaves our fitting sessions feeling empowered and ready to ride. Let us strive to create an environment where cyclists can thrive, and in doing so, we will elevate the entire profession of bike fitting.

For those interested in advancing their skills and knowledge, consider pursuing Certification to gain better education and public awareness. This step can make a significant difference in your career and the lives of the cyclists you serve.