Bike Fitting
Introduction
Speed, it is what we all strive for when we swim, bike and run; whether it be to win the race, your age group or just beat your PB. The temptation to buy those aero wheels or that shiny Carbon Fibre TT bike may be enormous but they might not necessarily make you faster. Let us assume you have bought your dream bike. You ride it a few times and, sure, it feels faster but are you getting the most from it? Does it fit you? You don’t even need a new bike. Your old bike may have loads more to give if only it fitted you correctly. So how do I know if my bike fits me? You need a Retül 3D cycling assessment and fitting.
Injured?
It does not matter if you are suffering with a major injury or just a niggle; getting your bike fitted could make the difference between injury free and injury prone.
What is Retül?
The Retül system uses LEDs positioned on key locations on the body to create a computer model of you. This model can be analysed by the assessor instantly and the amount of information is huge. Not only can the system measure you riding the bike, it can also be used to measure the bike itself, allowing changes such as saddle height to be measured and recorded.
So what happens?
A typical setting will take approximately 3 hours. When the fitting starts the assessor will talk to you about your riding history, current training and any injuries. Then a series of core strength and flexibility tests are performed followed by a 
warm up on the bike fixed to a turbo trainer. After a few minutes of warm up the LED probes are attached using sticky Velcro ‘dots’. Once wired up, a series of efforts on the bike are performed whilst the Retül system watches and records. You can even see a stick man animation on the screen whilst you pedal. After approximately 1-2 minutes the data capture is complete and the assessor can see if any changes to the bike geometry are required or cleat positions. These changes can often be carried out there and then, followed by another spin on the bike to capture the new measurements. This process repeats until the bike is near enough perfectly set up to you and your needs. A temporary, adjustable stem can be fitted if required. This allows the perfect stem size to be simulated and tested.
My bike fitting
I took my Focus Triathlon bike along to a fitting. I’ve ridden over 12 triathlons and many Time trials with this bike so felt quite comfortable riding it. I was surprised at how simple the whole
experience was compared to the wealth if info I got back. With the adjustable stem fitted we decided a 90mm stem with 10° rise offered the best fit. Also, my cleats were adjusted to bring the pedal axles into the perfect position underneath my feet. I was also advised to get some arch supports for my cycle shoes as I have high arches in my feet.
The bike did feel different after the changes. I felt more comfortable and therefore able to concentrate on racing.
When you want to get the absolute best out of your bike, you need to be sure that it fits you perfectly. You will struggle to find anything as accurate as this system. If I were to get another bike, I know what the first thing I would do is……get Retüled!
Where do I go to get my bike fitted?
For bookings, prices and questions contact:-
Garth Kruger
info@vankru.com
07883 063 007