For cyclists, having the right bike to fit your body is key to a great ride. A properly fit bike improves comfort and increases performance, all while reducing the risk of injury. By improving the efficiency of the cyclist, fatigue decreases and more fun is had!
Customizing your bike to align with your unique cycling objectives involves a thorough analysis of your history as well as assessing your bike position and pedaling dynamics.
Common conditions related to cycling include:
Knee pain including patellofemoral pain & IT Band Friction Syndrome
Low back pain
Foot pain including “Hot Foot” (outside foot pressure) & exertional compartment syndromes
Neck & shoulder pain including clavicular fracture
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Ulnar neuropathy aka “Cyclists Palsy”
Saddle pain including saddle sores
What should I expect during my bike fit appointment?
A bike fit assessment is a two hour, dedicated one on one session with Chantal Simak, MPT. Please bring your bike, shoes and the typical clothing you wear while cycling.
Every bike fit starts with a thorough assessment including past medical history, a discussion on cycling history and goals. Wear on the bike and cycling shoes are checked.
After your bike is set in the trainer, a global observation is performed to view all aspects of the cyclist and bike. Several contact points are evaluated and adjusted including the foot/pedal interface, saddle and handlebars. A pedal stroke evaluation is also performed. At the end of the bike fit you will leave with measurements of your current bike specifications and a list of any changes made during the bike fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do we use during the bike fit?
Several pieces of equipment are utilized during the bike fit assessment:
A bike trainer that does not require removal of the rear wheel
Lasers to level bike on trainer and to track position of lower extremity while cycling
Goniometers to measure angles of shoulders, hips, knees, elbows and wrists to maximize comfort and efficiency
Bike tools to adjust as the assessment progresses and ensure all components on your bike are tight and torqued before you leave
Do you work with all types and brands of bikes?
Yes! Part of our intake form includes questions on the specifications of your bike including the brand and size. Please ensure you complete these forms so I can be fully prepared.
Who needs a bike fit?
Triathletes, avid or amateur cyclists using road or hybrid/gravel bikes are appropriate for this appointment.
Is bike fit covered by extended health including ICBC?
As this service is provided by a physiotherapist, it may be covered by your extended health depending on your policy. Please check with your insurer for details.
For ICBC, a bike fit may be covered and is at the discretion of ICBC on a case-by-case basis and pre-approval is necessary. If ICBC does agree to cover a bike fit, the client is required to pay for the service and submit the receipt to ICBC for reimbursement.
What does a bike fit cost?
$340 for a 2-hour bike fit including a single complementary adjustment post-bike fit, if needed.
Are there any additional costs?
The results of the bike fit may result in the recommendation of different bike components including a different saddle or handlebar. We do stock some parts and sell them at an additional cost.
Is there anything I need to bring or do before my bike fit appointment?
We do have a checklist for you! (PDF version of the checklist)
❏ Fill out the questionnaire.
❏ Make sure your bike is clean and in good working order. Please wash mud off frame and tires.
❏ Have proper air pressure in tires.
❏ Wear the clothing, cycling shoes and clips you usually cycle in. Please clean debris out of cleats and screw head.
❏ Bring any additional saddles or stems you may own that you may wish to have installed.
❏ Have any tools on hand that you would use to make adjustments that are required to your specific bike, if needed. Please note the physiotherapist has a set of Park Tools accessible during the bike fit.
