You may have heard a lot of people in the bike community talking about getting fitted for a bike. There are some people that just got to a bike store, or store that has a small bike sales area, and straddle the bike to see if it fits them. If it does, they buy that bike already assembled.
This is fine, but if you want a bike that is going to be used for events, for more than casual cycling, and for fitness you want one that fits you well. For that, you need to be fitted. This is what you need to expect during a fitting.
Initial Inseam Measurement
The key to a bike fitting is getting that initial inseam measurement. This is done by a professional and will consist of a measurement that starts at the base of your foot or inner arch and goes up to your pubic bone.
This number is done on both sides of your body with your legs straddled apart as if you are straddling a bike. That number is then converted to centimeters, multiplied by .67, and the final configuration refers to the inches that your bike needs to be.
Type of Bike Options
After your inseam measurement has been taken and calculated, it will be time to figure out the type of bike you want. You may not think that this will matter, but it does. You may want a little give for certain bikes.
Keep in mind a traditional cruiser bike is designed much differently than a bike made for road or mountain biking. This means that your bike measurement is used to determine which bike is best for the style you want and plays greatly into what you may be able to purchase or what you may find as an ideal option for you.
Pedals and Accessories
During your fitting, you will try several bikes to determine what you like and what fits your measurements. During this time you will also look at pedals and other accessories. All of these items play into creating the best possible purchase for your needs and the best bike for your needs. You will be asked several questions.
Keep in mind, you do not have to buy the bike that day or all the accessories you are shown. You are simply being shown what is available based on the fitting measurement you are given.
Keep in mind, for a true bike fitting, you will need to go to a bike store. Department stores will likely not offer this service and if they do it won’t be as accurate or professional as a bike store will offer.
