With the impact of COVID-19 last year, more people started to practice outdoor sports, and bike riding was one of their favorites. A year after, many shops are behind or low in bicycle stocks. And more people are buying bikes online, which makes them unable to get a proper bike fit before buying. The problem with this is ending up with a bike that’s too big or too small for you.

You must know that bike fitting is not just about getting a bike that’s right for your height and weight. The purpose of bike fitting is to guarantee that your position while riding your bike is appropriate because it helps prevent injuries, ensures comfort, and improves your cycling performance.

How to know if your bike needs fitting

1. Stand over your bike (still with your bike balanced and straight between your legs)- Are you in your tippy-toes? Do you have to move your bike to either side to reach and put a foot flat on the floor?

2. Look at your saddle- Is it pointing up? Is it pointing down? Is it pointing to either side? Is it twisted?

3. Bike frame- The bike frame depends on the type of bike you have. If you have a road, classing, fixie, BMX, or track bike, you’re most likely to have a straight top tube in your frame. In that case, is it too close or too far from your body when you stand over your bike?

4. Handlebars reach -A proper handlebar reach can prevent neck and back pain. When you sit on your bike to grasp the bars, are your arms tense and completely straight? Are the handlebars too high or too low?

5. Pedal reach- Proper pedal reach is critical to keep your knees safe from injuries. Are the pedals too far away from your feet? Are your feet touching the pedals and your legs completely straight?

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Bike fitting things you need to know:

1. When you stand over your bike, your feet should be flat on the ground.

2. Your bike saddle should be centered, straight, and not above or under your hips when you stand next to the bike.

3. There should be a one-inch distance between you and the top tube of the bike frame when you stand over your bike,

4. The handlebars should be as high or slightly above the height of your saddle. Your arms and hands should not be dead straight; this could cause pain and discomfort during the ride and after. The arms should be slightly bent, you should hold the bars loosely, and your hands shouldn’t be pointing down.

5. You should be able to reach your pedals with a knee angle between 25 and 35 degrees. Having your legs too straight or too closed can cause knee injuries. Being unable to reach your pedals can result in an accident.

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Some Recommendations:

1, You can take a video of yourself on a bike roller or trainer to check your riding posture.

2. Try going to your local bike shop to get proper bike fitting, or ask for help so you can learn more about it.

3. If you schedule a bike fitting, make sure you wear comfortable clothes and shoes; or cycling apparel.

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