What Does a Bike Fit Involve? Step-by-Step Breakdown
A professional bike fit is more than just tweaking your saddle height or buying a new stem. It’s a structured, evidence-based process that tailors your bike setup to your unique body, goals, and riding style. Whether you're training for triathlon, riding long-distance sportives, or just want to ride without discomfort, here’s exactly what to expect.
Why Get a Professional Bike Fit?
Even experienced riders are often surprised by how small adjustments can lead to big improvements. A proper fit helps:
Reduce pain and numbness
Prevent overuse injuries
Improve power and pedaling efficiency
Boost confidence and enjoyment
The Bike Fit Process: What to Expect
1. Pre-Fit Interview
A good fit starts with understanding you as a rider. Expect to discuss:
Riding history and goals
Injuries or pain points
Current training and bike use
2. Off-Bike Assessment
The fitter will assess your:
Flexibility and joint mobility
Core stability and posture
Leg length or asymmetries
This helps guide what position your body can realistically maintain, not just what looks "aero."
3. On-Bike Analysis
This is where the magic happens. With your bike mounted on a trainer or fitting jig:
Your current setup is observed
Pedaling technique is reviewed
Contact points (saddle, bars, cleats) are evaluated
Some sessions may also use motion capture, pressure mapping, or video feedback.
4. Adjustments and Re-Test
The fitter will make real-time adjustments such as:
Saddle height and fore-aft
Cleat position and float
Handlebar height and reach
Stem length and angle
You’ll test each change to feel the difference, and further tweaks are made to dial in your position.
3. On-Bike Analysis
This is where the magic happens. With your bike mounted on a trainer or fitting jig:
Your current setup is observed
Pedaling technique is reviewed
Contact points (saddle, bars, cleats) are evaluated
Some sessions may also use motion capture, pressure mapping, or video feedback.
4. Adjustments and Re-Test
The fitter will make real-time adjustments such as:
Saddle height and fore-aft
Cleat position and float
Handlebar height and reach
Stem length and angle
You’ll test each change to feel the difference, and further tweaks are made to dial in your position.
After the Fit: What You Get
Most professional bike fits include a report or summary with your new measurements and setup. Some may also recommend:
Strength or mobility exercises to help you adapt
New components (only if necessary)
Return visits or follow-ups to reassess changes
Final Word: Fit Is Personal
Every rider is different. A good bike fit doesn’t force you into a textbook position; it finds the right setup for your body and riding goals. If you want to feel better, ride stronger, and stay injury-free, a proper bike fit is a smart move.
Why Choose Total Endurance for Your Bike Fit?
At Total Endurance, our bike fits are led by Ken Bryson, a seasoned coach and bike fit expert with over 30 years of experience. Ken has worked with riders of all levels—from first-time triathletes to Commonwealth Games competitors—and brings unmatched expertise to every fit session.
His knowledge of biomechanics, technique, and race-day performance ensures that every adjustment is purposeful and every rider walks away with a setup tailored to their needs.
When you book a fit with Ken, you're not just adjusting bolts—you're investing in years of insight, care, and experience that make a real difference on the road.