Today, I'm glad to announce the launch of a new product on the bike app.
We've called it Bikefit Simulator.
The goal behind this product is to help cyclists find not only the right size, but ultimately the right model for them.
In this article I will explain what it is and how to use it
What is Bike Fitting?
Bike fitting is the process of adjusting a bicycle to fit its rider optimally. This customization aims to improve comfort, efficiency, and performance while reducing the risk of injury. A professional bike fit typically involves analyzing the rider's body measurements, flexibility, riding style, and any specific concerns or issues they may have.
Because of its complexity, a good bike fit should be done retroactively. That is why professionals usually use a number of force plates and motion capture sensors which guide precise at meticulous adjustments to the rider's position or the choice of components.
What is Bike Sizing?
Bike sizing refers to the process of determining the appropriate frame size for a rider based on their body measurements and proportions. Proper bike sizing is essential for comfort, efficiency, and control while riding.
Bike sizing charts provided by bike manufacturers can serve as a starting point, but it's essential to consider individual body proportions and preferences. In many cases, getting a professional bike fitting can help ensure that the bike size is tailored specifically to your body and riding style.
The problem with bike sizing
So far, the bike industry's solution to helping people find their size has been flawed.
The use of ambiguous proprietary size charts by height and complex frame geometry tables are not only impractical, but they can also be flat out wrong.
That's because height is simply not that good of a predictor of bike size.
Most importantly, Size charts assume that any single geometry should fit everyone as long as they pick the right size.
We are told what size to pick without any regards to the model itself and any considerations on the role played by the body's proportions.
Being able to test-ride a bike before purchase can help, but in fact, our brains are pretty bad at "feeling" what a good position is. Most often, even obvious imbalances in the cycling position are only noticed after extended periods pedaling. By then, it's too late.
What is the Bikefit Simulator?
The Bikefit Simulator acts like a virtual fitting room where users can "try out" different bikes and see exactly how their own body will react to the natural riding position.
The goal is to bridge the gap that exists between bike sizing and bike fitting.
Using the bikefit simulator
Using the bikefit simulator is pretty straight forward.
- Enter your body’s proportions
- Select the bike you want to “try out” from our database
- Modify parameters such as “stem length” and “spacers height” in order to maximize your Fitscore.
You can rinse and repeat steps 2 and 3 until you are satisfied with your current bike setup.
What is the Fitscore ?
The Fitscore is a metric that we have developed in order to quantify the quality of a cycling position.
It is a compound score that takes into account 5 different variables:
- Maximal knee extension angle
- Arm extension angle, which is the angle formed by by the hip, shoulder and hand points
- Drop factor: which is the ratio between the height (vertical) of the seat and the handlebars
- Slope of the torso
- Minimal Hip angle during the pedal stroke.
The closer all of these values are to their theoretical target values, the more likely it is that a bike will fit its rider.
Conclusion
Hopefully, the launch of the Bikefit Simulator marks a significant step forward in the way bikes are purchased. By addressing the shortcomings of traditional bike sizing methods and bridging the gap between sizing and fitting, we believe our tool can empower cyclists to make informed decisions.
We believe that every cyclist deserves a personalized riding experience tailored to their unique body proportions and preferences. We're proud to offer a solution that offers this.
We're excited to invite you to try out the Bikefit Simulator and discover the perfect bike setup for you. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, we're confident that our tool will help you unlock your full potential on the road or trail. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards better cycling experiences.
Happy riding!
Will