Comprehensive Bicycle Fitting
as a Standard Practice

from "The Complete Guide to Bicycle Store Operations "
by Ed Benjamin (pg. 89-93) and published by Info Net Publishing

 
Every bicycle customer should receive the following attention to his or her needs:

1. Each customer is measured with a Fit Kit™, and their measurements used to determine the bicycle frame size they need.
2. If they need a different length of stem or a different width of handlebar, that is noted on the bicycle ticket. We will make the change free on all bikes selling for more than $300.
3. Each customer's bike saddle is adjusted to the correct horizontal position on the saddle rails. Use a plumb bob to position their knee above the ball of their foot when the crank arm is horizontal and the pedal is all the way forward.
4. Mountain bike bars are trimmed to appropriate size for the customer.
5. Toe clips are checked for size.
6. Saddle size and shape are discussed with the customer:
7. Physically fit males under the age of 30 are advised that the original saddle is probably appropriate.
8. Physically fit females under age 30 are advised that we will install a lady's saddle for them at no extra cost.
9. Both of these groups are shown a gel saddle, and it is suggested to them that the gel saddle would be an improvement, at an extra cost.
10. Males and females over age 30 are advised to get a gel seat. And if overweight, use a lighter saddle. The reason is that at this age, they have usually lost some of their ability to easily adapt to a tiny seat, after decades of sitting on car seats, office chairs, and other, broader seating.
11. All customers over age 50, particularly if they are overweight and are not riding any distance, usually will benefit from a HDD Super Saddle or a gel seat pad.
12. All age groups should be advised that a seat that is too small will hurt, causing the sensation of a bruise. A seat that is too large will cause riders to sit on the muscles they are using, resulting in an ache. Changing seat size, shape, position and padding make big differences.
13. Discuss with every customer the advantages of cycling shoes. Not only will they go faster, but they will be more comfortable and less fatigued.
      
    Use this example:
      
    "When you are walking, you are putting your body weight on each foot, the entire foot, every step. When riding, you can press harder than your body weight, and usually do. You are putting twice or more your body weight on perhaps 25% of your foot. Obviously, your feet need protection and support for this. Cycling shoes also slip into toe clips better, will not slip off the pedal, and will not be damaged the way your sneakers will."
      
    The customers will be applying power to their bike at the pedal/foot interface. They need shoes, properly adjusted cleats, and appropriate pedals. All customers would benefit from shoes, even the most casual riders. If cleated shoes are not appropriate, then use touring shoes.
      
14. Discuss with the customer the need for gloves and shorts to be comfortable on the bike.
15. Before they leave with any bike, have them sit on the bike, and determine if they look and feel comfortable. Check that their seat height and horizontal seat adjustment are correct for them. Make it apparent to them that you are checking these things, and that you are concerned for their comfort and that the adjustments are correct.

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