Amazing, had my 56 cm Tarmac sl nicked awhile ago, just replaced it with a second hand 54 cm frame (from a mate). Built up with spare stuff. Its the most comfortable bike Ive ridden. I will pay more attention to James and his bike fit advice from now on as he is spot on advising a smaller frame.
Most RUclips bike fitters: Try to appear serious while spouting complete nonsense James: Goofs about while spreading true knowledge Once again proof that the less important something appears to be, the more important it probably is
Spot on. At 5’ 10” also, I have consistently opted for smaller frames than most manufacturers recommend - typically 53/54. Thanks for affirming I’m not crazy!
Oh yeah, I'm 6'0" and a lot of manufacturers recommend a 58, my legs are really long and even with a 56 felt like I had to do some straight up yoga on bike, luckily a short stem fixed that....
Me too, I had a bike fit on my first bike which was a 56-I was advised by the fitter that although I was managing the bike ok it was at the outer edge of adjustment and as I got older and stiffer would be to big. I should add that I am 5ft 9in with 32in inside leg, and was 69 when I had the fit. I am 72 now and ride a 54-with an 80mm stem-bike is very comfy to ride, 100 mile days no problem.
@@K777John ohh i see so soze 54 is good for a 5'9 rider ....because here in the philippines its so hard to find a size 54 up frames they all end up to size 52 because not all asians are tall so i am having a hard time but i found a size 54 frameset from mosso hope to build it soon
The big bike issue could have gotten me had I NOT bought my bike from a bike shop. The bike companies would have had me more in a 54 based on height, but the 52 they had on hand, which the guys initially thought was too small, turned out to be perfect because my inseam was shorter. Ordering online would have resulted in a bike that was too big! Good tips!
Love the energy and passion that you guys bring to your channel. Because of your videos, I've been able to get a bike that fits me properly 2nd time round! Been riding a gravel bike in a L (60) for the best part of 16 months and ooooh what a journey it’s been. Sizing came about from the old school “height = bike size” chart gubbins. Bike salesman says you’re a large (I’m 5’11 - 6ft on a good day). You think everything is rosy, pedal about on it for 2 mins to check all is good, pay your money and roll out of the store. Oh how wrong was I…. I felt like I was beaten up every time I rode it. You name it, I suffered from it. Numb undercarriage/neck/shoulder/numb hands/hot foot/lower back pain, over stretched. Everything under the sun. Even bought a cut out saddle (helped a little) and changed the stem to a slightly shorter one but alas, it was money poured down the drain. Enough was enough, cut my losses and sold the bike last month before I did any lasting damage to myself. Because of these brilliant BFT videos I've now got a bike that actually fits me (54 (S) endurance bike).
Basically, everyone is playing billy big-baws. At 5'7"/172cm you'd have thought I would have the issue with my size and be wearing the loose t-shirts. But it sounds like everyone has to get over the issue.
Watched this morning before going for a short-ish ride (37km) - flipped my stem, dropped the saddle, moved it forwards (also applied some toe-in to my levers) - what a difference. Much more comfortable. Glad I watched the video, as it'll make Nighrider London much more comfortable next weekend!
I have found your videos incredibly informative. As I result I totally changed the setup of my 56cm Cannondale Synapse. Two weeks ago I bought a 54cm BMC Roadmachine and I am a very happy bunny.
It’s interesting that James said he’s 5’10 and rides a 53. I am 5’10 like James and I’ve been riding a 56 for the past 11 years because it was my first road bike that I bought just for a charity ride. For years I’ve slowly changed things out and made small adjustments until I feel I got close to perfect for my size. Couldn’t do it anymore. I went and looked at a 53, took it for a spin, I loved it! It was an 8 year old Wilier so I considered it but then decided on a new bike. Every person in the bike shops when I told them the 53 felt perfect gave me a look and said that’s too small! I ended up getting a 54 because the size runs 52-54-56. So glad I went smaller. Now I need to get my saddle right.
My 53 is seeming to large for me, Im also 5 10, but my Frame has a 54.5 top tube and 3t bars with a 110 stem, so it may just be a reach issue. Can't reach the levers in the drops...
@@DougTheSnowMan my 56 had a 120 stem and I switched it out for a 100 and the problem I ran into is that it’s still a little too much reach, trouble reaching the brakes from the drop and I still have to move my hands back from the hoods. Plus it changes the geometry too much. My plan is now that I got a bike that fits me a lot better I’m going to take the old bike apart and rebuild it with proper components to make it a work of art that will be right at home amongst my other bikes.
Frame size is a bad way of measuring a bike. You can take a dozen 56 bikes and measure their ETT and they will be widely different. It's more important to get fitted on a jig and then compare your ideal measurements to bike geometry measurements (almost always available on manufacture websites). Pick the size and geo that either matches or is smaller than ideal, rather than worry about if it is a 53,54,55 or 56.
@@echtogammut point is that it’s not one size fits all. I bought my bike based on size first and then fit. I took it out for a ride before deciding on it. The bike shops all kept saying 56 and that the 53 Wilier was too small. I said it’s like shoes... not all brands fit your feet the same way and one companies 11 is another’s 10.5. I’m not racing or taking myself too serious so my bike allows me to be fast enough for enjoyment and comfortable enough for the long rides I love to put in.
After going my first year and half without a proper bike fit, I thought the pain and discomfort was part of the process. Had the wrong sized shoes too. Got fitted (and refitted to a new bike) and got the right sized pair of shoes; life is good. I’m such an advocate the first thing I tell anyone asking about road cycling is to get a bike fit AND clarifying that a bike fit isn’t from the guy who sold you the Bike telling you you look good on it. Lol 🍻
James is a legend, I have wasted money on 2 other fits years ago, felt good until putting power down outside over distance. Went to James and never felt so good on a bike. Highly recommend
I’m 5’4”, worked 20+ years in bike shops, and agree 1000% that people get bikes too big. The biggest problem I saw was with shorter riders. Most bike shops have average to tall riders and most can’t relate to smaller rider needs. Most of my fittings resulted in installing a shorter stem and, possibly, shorter reach and narrower handlebars. However, much like the Uber tall peeps, most bike brands don’t do small frames justice. In the mid-90’s I rode the smallest bike my shop offered… a 50cm Cannondale which had a 525mm TT with 110-120mm stem and big reach and drop bars! Now I’m on a 46cm with a 510mm TT and 80-100mm stem (depending on my flexibility, how I’ve been feeling, etc) and short reach and shallow drop bars. Also, a lot of shops set up their bikes on the floor with stem in the “7” position. When I had my shop, I had the bikes set up in the most upright position.
I have been lowering my saddle height a few mm every few rides and have been seeing benefits. Bike Fit Tuesday videos are what brought me to your channel. If I was in the UK I'd be bringing him bike fit business.
Every word a gem. Get the knowledge and expertise for years of comfortable trouble free riding - invest in that before you buy. Riding smiles equals riding miles. Thanks guys awesome video, IMHO the best summary of top practice out there. Bravo.
Something I wondered about was how much bike fitting affects comfort and handling and is there a point where you have to say you need a different sized bike - in the context of a higher saddle height may allow more flex for comfort, and a shorter/longer stem or wider bars may allow more or less control depending upon the use of the bike; such as a gravel bike. Or are these things quite minor. Love the bike fit videos with James - he is a total star!
Completely correct. I'm 6'2" and I'm a medium. Started off as a large. I still have that bike and it is HUGE. Definitely get a fit first. Can't recommended enough so you don't waste money in the long run.
"If I just spend all my time telling you what I know, it's impossible for me to learn anything." A little quote I try to live by. I'm always a little uneasy when people have this much confidence, that they have all the anwers. I have heard most of what is being said enough times to know that there is a lot of genuine knowledge and experience being shared here, which is to be commended. I just don't think it's right to scare people off trying either other fitters or having a go themselves. Get out there, ride your bike, do your own maintenance, learn some stuff (These guys are great for that!), fit yourself (A video is great to see if you actually look like you think you do.), make some mistakes, love bikes!
Thanks for this channel, very helpful. For me however, the opposite of James's favorite tips was true. I had my saddle put up by 2 cm, my reach extended, and stem "slammed" by 3cm at a bike fit. Oh, just to tick some boxes: Longer stem as well. This did the trick in easing my lower back pain and feeling more comfortable on the bike. Weird, but I guess this just shows how tricky and unique bike fitting is and that basically everybody should get one.
Oddly a lower toilet aids in taking a dump as it straightens out the back passage so the poo flows out easier with less bends to navigate . It prevents constipation and possible damage to the anus .
Great video on bike fit blunders and I own a bike from that direct company you're talking about. At 6'5, I got a size XL. I have followed most of James instructions from his bike fit Tuesdays and what he say works! Once I got the seat height and cleat position set, I was good to go. BTW my shoe size is 50. I've tried several shoe sizes less that 50 and returned all of them. Thanks FC and James, keep schooling them!🚲
Would love to see a video with James where there's a deep dive into getting the right size of bike. This is a problem I've had looking at bikes. I sit right around 6'0", slightly shorter arms. I've ridden everything between 54-58 with varied comfort. So, how do you make sure the geometry is right for you. What do you look for on that bikes geometry chart?
Same here. I'm 6'0" but the majority of my height is in the torso. All the bike shops want to put me on a 56 and if I ever suggest trying a 54 they look at me as if I had two heads. The 55 I ended up with has finally been adjusted (by me) to where I think it fits well, (changed the bars from 42 to 40), but 55 is rare and if I wanted a new bike, I wonder what I would do?
@@marcelnali Firstly, specify whether you are measuring Seat Tube or Top Tube. Effective top tube is almost ubiquitous, but not quite, because with current compact frames its the most limiting measurement. Next, if you are taking an off the peg frame and are between sizes, take the smaller one. Between seat setback and stem length changes it can be set up to fit. You can't easily make a big frame smaller. Third option is custom build. Not cheap but not as expensive as some might imagine. The main drawbacks apart from price are the time it takes, and that you have so many choices. So many. Cheers.
@@Nastyhabitz Really argee with you here. I got into riding at the height of the pandemic and supply issues. I was able to find a bike I could actually afford and using the manufactures suggested sizing and being the only size available for that model put me into a 58 and I think I really would have been served better with a 56.
No high amount of RED BULL was consumed before the shooting of this video , James is just naturally this hyper (passionate). He did mine in a different era and a different location and if there is such a thing as perfect then his work comes pretty close. I cannot recommend enough to have a bikefit and although the several changes that can be made (millimetres) but you will feel the difference in the way you are literally moulded onto and around your bike and also the comfort that produces when doing longer rides.
I've been sold bikes too big my whole life and it wasn't until I bought a internet only bike (Canyon) did I get sold a bike that fitted and it truly is something different to ride. I had to take several different measurements not just the old ' whack a level in ya crotch" ! And you can see it in others as you ride around.
6:42 Absolutely! I'm tall so I was told I need a 62cm frame. On a whim, and because of videos like this, I tried bought a 58cm frame and I am so glad I did. My 62cm frame feels like a 1990s Buick compared to my new 58cm frame which feels zippy and responsive.
Sik video man. At 5’7” I thought I was medium 54. I know companies have their varied same sizes which are different but after years found 51 52’s were actually my correct size. The racers like a small frame and longer stem.
Obviously its different from bike to bike but as someone who is 173 myself but with long arms and short legs (gorilla physics) i have a 54 supersix with a 120 stem. I can ride it pretty okay and do so for 7000km a year without pain. I still know its too big since i tested a 51 supersix from a friend some months ago and it immediately felt at home.... So yeha 51 is the way to go for my next bike in a few years
@@andreasd2404 My fitter got me the best I can on 54. Lucky I have long arms & I’m flexible plus fitted 170 cranks with narrower bars, I seem to be flying though still but fancy a new 52 frame after Christmas.
Last year, I went to a professional bike fitter here in SG before buying a bike. I had a bike in mind but he looked at me, looked at the geometry chart of the bike and said no, it was too big for me. Bummer! So, I brought up my second choice. He looked at the chart and said I was a size 50 (XS). The bike's designer/manufacturer's chart said I should buy a 52 (S) according to my height. I was skeptical but I ordered the frameset in. When it arrived and I took it out of the box I was shocked at how tiny it was! The shop built it up and it fits me perfectly! So glad that I went to him now because if I had followed the recommendation...ugh!
Got my 1st bike this week in manchester and cant wait. I like that ‘if you feel you are over reaching you most definitely are’ Im definitely over reaching so looking forward to sorting that out
Interesting comment about manufacturers sizing... yes, I've learned a "medium" could be anything from too small to legs swinging free of pedals too large... almost as bad as bottom bracket standards!
If your quads are sore after a big effort, and your hamstrings and glutes are not, your seat is too high. The ideal spot is when all 3 muscle groups work/fatigue equally. Agree most people fitted in bike shops are 20mm too high. Have spent the last 30 years thinking I knew how to set my saddle height. Recently went to a highly skilled fitter with back and knee pain, who dropped my seat 22mm. Feels very strange initially, but all my asymmetries, aches and pains are gone and I have more power. I would put cleats too far forward before shoes being too big as a common mistake. There is very little to no downsides to getting the cleats as far back in the shoes as they will physically go. If the seat goes down as well you don't lose the ability to spin a good cadence.
I got two rules in life: when your tailor is done with your pants measurements, have him add another centimeter to the length and when the guy in the shop is done with your bike fitting, go down one size on the frame. Great video. I've made all these mistakes over the years and have the knee pain to prove it. If your video spares even a single rider of such pain, your work will have been worth it.
When I got into road bikes 5-6 years ago, I went to a very very well known major bike brand shop. They said I could fit on a 56cm frame if I wanted that bike. I ended up buying a 54cm from them as aa ride selected preference. I now ride a 51cm and I wish I been on this size so much earlier. I just went on the advice of the store/their qualified fitters!
I’m currently looking at getting a gravel bike; Ridley seems to be the only one suggesting I fit a 51 equivalent or XS in their sizing; everyone else advises a 54 or small; I’m leaning to the small but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. I know when I owned a Cervelo in a 54 2007/8 model that it always felt a bit big so look at geo a little bit smaller than that. What’s your inseam?
Many banging on about James said he is 5'-10'' and rides a 53. Well as he has previously said many so called 53cm frames won't have a damn single tube that measures 53cm. I heard him also say if he was to purchase an off the shelf ..Specialized, Trek etc. he would opt for a small or 52 despite their fitting chart advising 54 even 56. I'm same height and inseam as James and rode far too big a frame in the 80's ..Cinelli 22-1/2'' Bugger all pillar showing. Gone smaller and smaller over the year's until my latest gravel bike a 2018 Diverge I choose a 52. Man it looks like a kid's bike un-built. But experimented with stem length, saddle height and gone down to 170 cranks, cleats slammed back, It just feels right. Can't thank these two guy's enough for their time and passion. I too will get to James next year despite thinking I'm pretty close already.
Same here. I am 180 cm riding a Diverge 54 with 120mm stem and 170mm cranks with cleats almost fully behind. My friends all insisted that I should get a 56 but I feel fine.
Saddle height! I couldn't ride more than 30 miles without huge amounts of pain! After watching a previous video on saddle height where James mentioned catching the top tube with one knee, my problem was solved! Apparently now I'm a mileage monster! A cycling game changer for me! Cheers..
Imagine riding for two decades to finally realize what you instinctively felt about the size of bike someone else said was correct because of your particular height isn’t necessarily true. Thanks guys for lending confidence to us who for whatever reason choose to allow someone else to dictate how something ought to be done. Sure if everyone functioned optimally with the same gear well this video would not be needed. Cheers!
I've always found it odd that a lot of road cyclists are riding a bike too big (or set up as such) and it's only since I built up a 40 year old road frame last year that I now see your reasons why. Growing up on 90's/00's mtb things were kind of the other way round i.e. size down for maneuverability so I seem to have got my sizing figured out on the road... I like to think :)
Learnt a good fair bit from these recent bike fit/setup videos, every point has sound reasoning behind it. Made some decent changes on a new bike, all for the better. Cheers!
This I simply the best video for anyone to watch who cycles.......Such great wisdom, as a Osteopath this guys rocks knowledge, stay safe and keep up videos-chaps.
While I'm guilty of 2 of the 5 mistakes on my road bike which I did even know were wrong prior to bike fit Tuesdays and now I'm starting to feel the issues (stem too long bars too wide). I actually had pain in my right knee the other day on my MTB which I solved by raising the saddle 10mm so in conclusion bike fitting is hard and we could all do with a bike fit James to help us out.
These are the only videos in all of RUclips that I watch at 1.0 speed. James is dropping knowledge like, uhhh, a peloton dropping water bottles before a big climb?
Ok this is huge. I just watched this video and made 3 adjustments 1. I lowered my saddle by 20 mil. 2. I made a angle change to my bars. 3 i moved my saddle forward to the middle point of the rails. after which I took a ride and it was like a brand new bike.
Biggest comfort increases I've had on my bike are 38/36cm bars, the narrower the better - takes all of the pressure off the shoulders and arms. Also ride 2 sizes smaller than 'recommended' as I've always found recommended frame sizes too big. Guilty of 120 neg rise stem however...
Question for James, if I have already bought a bike that I'm pretty sure is a little big for me (It was the bike I was dreaming about and I found it on offer with a slight scratch for £2500 off list price), is it still worth getting a fit to rejig it and make it fit a little better or will you just tut and tell me off for the entire fit session?
My problem was that my bike was purchased for me by a friend. It was a last year's stock, one size too big (I normally ride a 56 and this was a "59" according to Masi), and a final no return purchase. I have managed to make it work perfectly believe it or not. First was a zero offset seatpost, one size shorter stem, and a narrower bar, after all that I have used the advice from James on BFT.....no issues with comfort no matter the mileage ridden. It literally measured out to within an 1/8" to my original bike on reach, but the bar to seat drop was less, but better for me at my age.
They were 10cm stems in 84 James 🙂 and Cinelli was the brand of choice. Some of the newer frames have the right length top tubes but the head tube lengths are way too long.
I watched this to reassure my decision of buying a 53 frame after considering all the specs of the bike and my experience of 55 frames being too big. Yet, all the guides say that I'm a 55. Including a 'bike fit' that I had prior purchasing my 56 roubaix 4 years ago.
me too i was riding a bike that was off for me. my chance was when i found that the frame + saddle + saddle height and tilt were right for me (48 + 70cms SH i'm 5'7). at least i got that. but the stem was too short and too low. and my handlebars were too wide. 44 that i changed for 40. my saddle was too far behind too. so from a 48 frame + -6° 100mm stem + 44 handlebars + saddle too far back >to> 48 frame + 120mm with 35° rise + 40mm handlebars + saddle about in the middle of the rails. i took the right decision to stop cycling 2 weeks before the fitting to feel more incline to accept the drastic change. if you ride the days before, any small change will be perceived as huge and will make you uncomfortable. which is counter productive for the fitting and the fitter. i wanted to be able to stick to what he achieved for me. i prepared my mind to accept the change. the thing that jumped into my face when i rode my bike after the fitting was how easy i was clipping the cleats. the pedal was right where it should be and clipped right away. i'm not searching for it like before. the other problem i had was the weird feeling i had in the climbs. sitted i was not happy at all, i couldn't put the ower down. now i feel like i can put the power down no matter where i am. i really do feel connected. handling in the corners is like papa into mama. my weight is well distributed on the wheels. if you put a scale under each wheel, i'm sure i'd be close to 50/50 balance.
I was guilty of a few of these, until i got my bike fitted by a pro... My saddle went down, my handlebar went down, and my seat went forward. I'm also using a shorter track crank (165mm)
I know what direct to consumer brand he's talking about, hehehe. I wanna buy a bike from them and it seems too small, but measuring my current bike, and it's about bang on! Great video!
Great video. I am a petite lady, less than 5 feet, and wish now I had had a fit prior to purchasing my bike. Maybe we would have made a different choice. We are now changing the cranks that came with the bike to a smaller crank that would best fit me to get ride of knee pain. So yes, bikes when you are not average height are an issue. I am lucky to have an excellent fitter here in Montreal.
The odd thing is that if you fit shorter cranks you will need to raise your saddle height and that will seriously help with your knees . Your legs will have to make a much small change in knee angle as you go through the pedal stroke .
I bought the 2022 Raleigh Centros ebike and I had to buy it online as no shop locally had it in stock Different types of bikes have different size requirements from what I've seen online and for EBikes it confirmed what I was advised. I spoke to the retailer and Raleigh and they said because I'm 6'2" that I need the 56cm one so I ordered it It turns out it was too big and the saddle was already at it's lowest and so I'm having to send it back for the 52cm one Someone said in a Facebook group I'm in that Raleigh bikes are a bit big and the size I was recommended was more suitable for someone 6'4" I didn't feel safe on it and also the handlebars upon checking again, were too much of a stretch to use The problem is that there is overlap for the sizes with some heights. I'm hoping that the replacement fits better and I have the option of raising the saddle slightly if necessary
I'm 6'3 with a large inseam size (3'1) and had a size 58 bike with standard sized stem. Now I switched to a size 61 Tarmac with a shorter stem and I finally cycle without pain
Saddle height to high, not forward enough, incline down to far or not enough, etc.. any number of issues. That will compress the nerves in the perineum area which can cause numbness and other problems. There are saddles that by design fix all that e.g. SQlab 612. You still need the saddle adjusted correctly though.
I’m 5’2” and I have a size 16 trinx 29er. I already adapted to my bike. Maximum ride so far is 70km. I really love my big bike. It is so fast than a 26er and no effort on pedalling when Im tired. You just need to adapt to it. : )
@@vladimiripotzky5392 Well I rode my bike for ~2000km and not adapted :) just developed shoulder pain .. but I have shortened reach recently and everything seems to be fine so far. I also ordered narrower handlebars so fingers crossed everything will be fine :)
@@kox222 I have a very short stem and a small like a diamond shape saddle. I have no problem on reach now and so comfortable when I'm on the bike. I'm planning now for a universal or 27.5 rigid fork to make the frame lowered, but not wanting to make my tire small because I love a 29er bigger width tire.😎
The acromion proccess measure is the last bit of bone before the meat of the deltoid, or a bit before that at the end of the clavicle ? I get either 37cm for the first or 32cm for the latter. And how does this apply to MTB/flat/riser bars?
The other thing about bike fit is that there is a lot of overlap between bike sizes now because of sloping top tubes. I am also 5'10" and I have ridden bikes as small as a 52 (530mm top tube) and a 56 (with a 545mm top tube). A lot of riders have issues with getting the right amount of stack as well... and too many people are chasing the "slammed" look and sacrificing their comfort and power to do so.
From a bike fit perspective. If someone is on a frame that's not quite the right size. Is too large or too small easier to compensate for with other factors such as seat height and stem? Obviously, getting the right frame size is best, but not everyone is in a position to do that. Who will have it easier to compensate?
Yep I’m between sizes on almost any bike I’ve sat myself on. Either the reach is to long or the I can’t reach the pedals. So I have to go for the lesser of 2 evils. You don’t have to have miles of seat post for the bike to fit you either as some point out.
I recently purchased a 56cm Trek Boone. Which is generally a good size for me. 2 issues, First I feel the reach is too short with a 100 mm stem. Not sure I want to go longer on a cross bike. Second my saddle is pushed all the way back. Is that bad for the saddle? Does that mean I need the next size up?
BFT suggestion: Every time James addresses saddle height... the feedback is “saddle height too high = bad... nearly everyone needs it lowered”. In all likelihood, this issue is due to one common practice 99.9% of recreational cyclists use to set saddle height in the first place... “Heel on pedal, lock out knee w/ crank at 6 o’clock”... I’d like to see James discuss that method and the pros/cons of using it as a benchmark for saddle height.
I always prefer to keep my saddle low. Also, after riding in one setup for a few months, I tend to revisit the fit. For saddle height, my test is to clip in one shoe, and check the feel when I move the pedal back and forth between 4o clock and 8o clock. If I can pull the pedal through with my ankle relaxed, then the saddle is not too high. If it is too high, I tend to shift on the saddle when the pedal is at 6o clock.
I used it then lowered my saddle by 10-20mm. that has been very comfortable. that method is just to get to the right ball park and then tweak from there, no?
I like how Francis makes a "shameless plug" to his own channel, in a video on his own channel. Also, I am about to get a bikefit scheduled. It's a shame James is so far away from me (I reside in the Netherlands), otherwise it would have been a no-brainer for me.
Interesting stuff this, there's so much to consider that has so far slipped me by. I'm 5 11 and usually found 56 was the best fit for me. I have a BMC Roadmachine in 56 which fits pretty nice but I'm not super happy with how it rides, particularly on low percentage inclines, but that's prob more to do with the carbon layup rather than the sizing. Somehow I enjoy my older racer size 58 with a super short stem. Now, after watching this, I'm tempted to try out a 54 or 55 and see how that feels. Scheduling a bike fit is sliding up my list of priorities.
I took James’ advice on a previous video about handlebar width and bought some 38’s. While they felt better at first over time I found I rested my palm too much on the bar where it bends around to the hood and had issues, got some 44 bars out of curiosity and the outside of my hands were more resting and distributed better which I found interesting
Question for James, if you were to do a time trial on your road bike and use clip on TT bars, should I make any changes to my normal set up. Thank you. Steve.
I once did a triathlon on my road bike. There were some modifications I did: 1. Add a clip-on TT bars. Obviously. 2. Change the standard seat post with Profile Design Fast Forward. It put your saddle position way forward, mimicking a TT bike saddle position. 3. Raise the saddle height a bit.
Some bike shops don't really have the right knowledge. I was sold a bike that was slightly on the larger size. I felt bad, but then saw another fellow cyclist who is 4 inches shorter than me riding the same size as my bike. His saddle was all the way down. Was suprise because the bike shop where he bought the bike was a popular bike shop.
Really helpful advice. Thank you chaps!! I bought first instead of getting fitted, but it sounds like luckily I’ll be ok as I erred on the size of caution. (Do you see what I did there?)
Stuns me that any Bike Fitter, as their job, can place the rider in the wrong position HOWEVER I have experienced this. I paid for bikes fits over the years firstly to ward off injury and then on the Retul jig in order to purchase my 'forever bike'. After 3 purchases of my 'forever bikes' (limited due to the stack and reach numbers the fitter determined I required) and going slower for 3 years of racing and ending up feeling pretty sad about my racing I happened upon a "Proper bike fitter who knows his stuff". He took 35mm of spacers out of the stem stack, changed my 90mm 6deg stem to a 120mm -10deg stem and changed my 40mm bars to a better shape at the curve on the tops and and 7mm longer in the bar reach. Moved my cleats back and me better over the BB. I now just flop onto the bike with a flat back and can be in the drops all day. I took 20secs out of a flat 2min strava segment the first time out on the new fit. I now hold flat speed way better and dont blow my quads up, I climb better as I can get over the front of the bike now. I WANT to go racing again. You've GOT to get a good fitter and that doesnt mean the guy who spruiks the loudest and has the highest profile in your area, it means the guy who gives your a clear benefit not some vague "trust me it works' feeling.
Amazing, had my 56 cm Tarmac sl nicked awhile ago, just replaced it with a second hand 54 cm frame (from a mate). Built up with spare stuff. Its the most comfortable bike Ive ridden. I will pay more attention to James and his bike fit advice from now on as he is spot on advising a smaller frame.
Many folks say: if you wanna be relaxed n comfy on the bike go for a size up. I disagree.
Bike fit Tuesdays always circle around the same points, yet I'm still learning stuff each time. This is a great public service!
Yes there is always the underlying message to avoid formulaic methods and the importance of getting a good bike fit before buying!
Most RUclips bike fitters: Try to appear serious while spouting complete nonsense
James: Goofs about while spreading true knowledge
Once again proof that the less important something appears to be, the more important it probably is
James going to bike shops and doing a "Gordan Ramsey" review of bike fitting, what could be more perfect than that?
Hells Fitting!!!
Except for Gordon Ramsey.
I’m trying to think of a bike fit equivalent of lamb sauce.
I'd finance it on bike fit shark tank
@@RyonBeachner cleat position?
Spot on. At 5’ 10” also, I have consistently opted for smaller frames than most manufacturers recommend - typically 53/54. Thanks for affirming I’m not crazy!
Oh yeah, I'm 6'0" and a lot of manufacturers recommend a 58, my legs are really long and even with a 56 felt like I had to do some straight up yoga on bike, luckily a short stem fixed that....
Hey guys what roadbike size would you recommend me btw im 5'9 ???
Me too, I had a bike fit on my first bike which was a 56-I was advised by the fitter that although I was managing the bike ok it was at the outer edge of adjustment and as I got older and stiffer would be to big. I should add that I am 5ft 9in with 32in inside leg, and was 69 when I had the fit. I am 72 now and ride a 54-with an 80mm stem-bike is very comfy to ride, 100 mile days no problem.
@@K777John ohh i see so soze 54 is good for a 5'9 rider ....because here in the philippines its so hard to find a size 54 up frames they all end up to size 52 because not all asians are tall so i am having a hard time but i found a size 54 frameset from mosso hope to build it soon
I'm 5ft10 and my with my 54 I still feel like I'm stretching or reaching. my saddle is likely a little high and handle bars too wide
The big bike issue could have gotten me had I NOT bought my bike from a bike shop. The bike companies would have had me more in a 54 based on height, but the 52 they had on hand, which the guys initially thought was too small, turned out to be perfect because my inseam was shorter. Ordering online would have resulted in a bike that was too big! Good tips!
Love the energy and passion that you guys bring to your channel. Because of your videos, I've been able to get a bike that fits me properly 2nd time round!
Been riding a gravel bike in a L (60) for the best part of 16 months and ooooh what a journey it’s been. Sizing came about from the old school “height = bike size” chart gubbins. Bike salesman says you’re a large (I’m 5’11 - 6ft on a good day). You think everything is rosy, pedal about on it for 2 mins to check all is good, pay your money and roll out of the store. Oh how wrong was I….
I felt like I was beaten up every time I rode it. You name it, I suffered from it. Numb undercarriage/neck/shoulder/numb hands/hot foot/lower back pain, over stretched. Everything under the sun. Even bought a cut out saddle (helped a little) and changed the stem to a slightly shorter one but alas, it was money poured down the drain. Enough was enough, cut my losses and sold the bike last month before I did any lasting damage to myself. Because of these brilliant BFT videos I've now got a bike that actually fits me (54 (S) endurance bike).
Sweet!
1) Saddle height
2) Reach is too long
3) Handlebars too wide
4) Shoes too big
5) Bike is too big
I think I have all these issues 😪
Yep me to! 😒
Number 2 and 4 is my problem I think
Basically, everyone is playing billy big-baws.
At 5'7"/172cm you'd have thought I would have the issue with my size and be wearing the loose t-shirts. But it sounds like everyone has to get over the issue.
Watched this morning before going for a short-ish ride (37km) - flipped my stem, dropped the saddle, moved it forwards (also applied some toe-in to my levers) - what a difference. Much more comfortable.
Glad I watched the video, as it'll make Nighrider London much more comfortable next weekend!
I have found your videos incredibly informative. As I result I totally changed the setup of my 56cm Cannondale Synapse. Two weeks ago I bought a 54cm BMC Roadmachine and I am a very happy bunny.
Sweet!
It’s interesting that James said he’s 5’10 and rides a 53. I am 5’10 like James and I’ve been riding a 56 for the past 11 years because it was my first road bike that I bought just for a charity ride. For years I’ve slowly changed things out and made small adjustments until I feel I got close to perfect for my size. Couldn’t do it anymore. I went and looked at a 53, took it for a spin, I loved it! It was an 8 year old Wilier so I considered it but then decided on a new bike. Every person in the bike shops when I told them the 53 felt perfect gave me a look and said that’s too small! I ended up getting a 54 because the size runs 52-54-56. So glad I went smaller. Now I need to get my saddle right.
My 53 is seeming to large for me, Im also 5 10, but my Frame has a 54.5 top tube and 3t bars with a 110 stem, so it may just be a reach issue. Can't reach the levers in the drops...
@@DougTheSnowMan my 56 had a 120 stem and I switched it out for a 100 and the problem I ran into is that it’s still a little too much reach, trouble reaching the brakes from the drop and I still have to move my hands back from the hoods. Plus it changes the geometry too much. My plan is now that I got a bike that fits me a lot better I’m going to take the old bike apart and rebuild it with proper components to make it a work of art that will be right at home amongst my other bikes.
Frame size is a bad way of measuring a bike. You can take a dozen 56 bikes and measure their ETT and they will be widely different. It's more important to get fitted on a jig and then compare your ideal measurements to bike geometry measurements (almost always available on manufacture websites). Pick the size and geo that either matches or is smaller than ideal, rather than worry about if it is a 53,54,55 or 56.
@@echtogammut point is that it’s not one size fits all. I bought my bike based on size first and then fit. I took it out for a ride before deciding on it. The bike shops all kept saying 56 and that the 53 Wilier was too small. I said it’s like shoes... not all brands fit your feet the same way and one companies 11 is another’s 10.5. I’m not racing or taking myself too serious so my bike allows me to be fast enough for enjoyment and comfortable enough for the long rides I love to put in.
@@echtogammut Yes, many brands use ETT now but not everyone. It's the only measure that makes sense with compact frames.
Can we hear James’ story on starting his own business? It’d be super interesting to hear how people can make a living through their passions!
Yes, I second this. I'd find this interesting
beck lowery 100%!
I second this too! :)
100%
I’m guessing you are all new to this channel? 😉
Scroll to old vids
After going my first year and half without a proper bike fit, I thought the pain and discomfort was part of the process. Had the wrong sized shoes too. Got fitted (and refitted to a new bike) and got the right sized pair of shoes; life is good. I’m such an advocate the first thing I tell anyone asking about road cycling is to get a bike fit AND clarifying that a bike fit isn’t from the guy who sold you the Bike telling you you look good on it. Lol 🍻
James is a legend, I have wasted money on 2 other fits years ago, felt good until putting power down outside over distance. Went to James and never felt so good on a bike. Highly recommend
I’m 5’4”, worked 20+ years in bike shops, and agree 1000% that people get bikes too big. The biggest problem I saw was with shorter riders. Most bike shops have average to tall riders and most can’t relate to smaller rider needs. Most of my fittings resulted in installing a shorter stem and, possibly, shorter reach and narrower handlebars. However, much like the Uber tall peeps, most bike brands don’t do small frames justice.
In the mid-90’s I rode the smallest bike my shop offered… a 50cm Cannondale which had a 525mm TT with 110-120mm stem and big reach and drop bars! Now I’m on a 46cm with a 510mm TT and 80-100mm stem (depending on my flexibility, how I’ve been feeling, etc) and short reach and shallow drop bars.
Also, a lot of shops set up their bikes on the floor with stem in the “7” position. When I had my shop, I had the bikes set up in the most upright position.
About to fly to London just to have this man fit me
I have been lowering my saddle height a few mm every few rides and have been seeing benefits. Bike Fit Tuesday videos are what brought me to your channel. If I was in the UK I'd be bringing him bike fit business.
Every word a gem. Get the knowledge and expertise for years of comfortable trouble free riding - invest in that before you buy. Riding smiles equals riding miles. Thanks guys awesome video, IMHO the best summary of top practice out there. Bravo.
Something I wondered about was how much bike fitting affects comfort and handling and is there a point where you have to say you need a different sized bike - in the context of a higher saddle height may allow more flex for comfort, and a shorter/longer stem or wider bars may allow more or less control depending upon the use of the bike; such as a gravel bike. Or are these things quite minor.
Love the bike fit videos with James - he is a total star!
I’d love to hear your/James’ thoughts regarding road bs gravel bike set up!
Completely correct. I'm 6'2" and I'm a medium. Started off as a large. I still have that bike and it is HUGE. Definitely get a fit first. Can't recommended enough so you don't waste money in the long run.
"Your Saddle is Too High Tuesdays"
"If I just spend all my time telling you what I know, it's impossible for me to learn anything." A little quote I try to live by. I'm always a little uneasy when people have this much confidence, that they have all the anwers. I have heard most of what is being said enough times to know that there is a lot of genuine knowledge and experience being shared here, which is to be commended. I just don't think it's right to scare people off trying either other fitters or having a go themselves. Get out there, ride your bike, do your own maintenance, learn some stuff (These guys are great for that!), fit yourself (A video is great to see if you actually look like you think you do.), make some mistakes, love bikes!
Thanks for this channel, very helpful. For me however, the opposite of James's favorite tips was true. I had my saddle put up by 2 cm, my reach extended, and stem "slammed" by 3cm at a bike fit. Oh, just to tick some boxes: Longer stem as well. This did the trick in easing my lower back pain and feeling more comfortable on the bike. Weird, but I guess this just shows how tricky and unique bike fitting is and that basically everybody should get one.
Dude - Bike Fit Tuesdays with James are the best. Thanks for another one!
✌️
I occasionally suffer from asymmetrical interaction with my toilet seat after a night on the beers. I should lower the seat height.
Not too low, it makes prayer more difficult.
Oddly a lower toilet aids in taking a dump as it straightens out the back passage so the poo flows out easier with less bends to navigate . It prevents constipation and possible damage to the anus .
Great video on bike fit blunders and I own a bike from that direct company you're talking about. At 6'5, I got a size XL. I have followed most of James instructions from his bike fit Tuesdays and what he say works! Once I got the seat height and cleat position set, I was good to go. BTW my shoe size is 50. I've tried several shoe sizes less that 50 and returned all of them. Thanks FC and James, keep schooling them!🚲
Would love to see a video with James where there's a deep dive into getting the right size of bike. This is a problem I've had looking at bikes. I sit right around 6'0", slightly shorter arms. I've ridden everything between 54-58 with varied comfort. So, how do you make sure the geometry is right for you. What do you look for on that bikes geometry chart?
Same here. I'm 6'0" but the majority of my height is in the torso. All the bike shops want to put me on a 56 and if I ever suggest trying a 54 they look at me as if I had two heads. The 55 I ended up with has finally been adjusted (by me) to where I think it fits well, (changed the bars from 42 to 40), but 55 is rare and if I wanted a new bike, I wonder what I would do?
@@marcelnali Firstly, specify whether you are measuring Seat Tube or Top Tube. Effective top tube is almost ubiquitous, but not quite, because with current compact frames its the most limiting measurement. Next, if you are taking an off the peg frame and are between sizes, take the smaller one. Between seat setback and stem length changes it can be set up to fit.
You can't easily make a big frame smaller.
Third option is custom build. Not cheap but not as expensive as some might imagine. The main drawbacks apart from price are the time it takes, and that you have so many choices. So many. Cheers.
@@Nastyhabitz Really argee with you here. I got into riding at the height of the pandemic and supply issues. I was able to find a bike I could actually afford and using the manufactures suggested sizing and being the only size available for that model put me into a 58 and I think I really would have been served better with a 56.
No high amount of RED BULL was consumed before the shooting of this video , James is just naturally this hyper (passionate). He did mine in a different era and a different location and if there is such a thing as perfect then his work comes pretty close. I cannot recommend enough to have a bikefit and although the several changes that can be made (millimetres) but you will feel the difference in the way you are literally moulded onto and around your bike and also the comfort that produces when doing longer rides.
Thanks man! Glad to hear it 🤟🏻
I've been sold bikes too big my whole life and it wasn't until I bought a internet only bike (Canyon) did I get sold a bike that fitted and it truly is something different to ride. I had to take several different measurements not just the old ' whack a level in ya crotch" ! And you can see it in others as you ride around.
6:42 Absolutely! I'm tall so I was told I need a 62cm frame. On a whim, and because of videos like this, I tried bought a 58cm frame and I am so glad I did. My 62cm frame feels like a 1990s Buick compared to my new 58cm frame which feels zippy and responsive.
Sik video man. At 5’7” I thought I was medium 54. I know companies have their varied same sizes which are different but after years found 51 52’s were actually my correct size.
The racers like a small frame and longer stem.
That sounds about right!
Obviously its different from bike to bike but as someone who is 173 myself but with long arms and short legs (gorilla physics) i have a 54 supersix with a 120 stem. I can ride it pretty okay and do so for 7000km a year without pain. I still know its too big since i tested a 51 supersix from a friend some months ago and it immediately felt at home.... So yeha 51 is the way to go for my next bike in a few years
@@andreasd2404 My fitter got me the best I can on 54. Lucky I have long arms & I’m flexible plus fitted 170 cranks with narrower bars, I seem to be flying though still but fancy a new 52 frame after Christmas.
Definitely my newly discovered favourite RUclips channel 👊🏾👏🏾✊🏾
✌️
Last year, I went to a professional bike fitter here in SG before buying a bike. I had a bike in mind but he looked at me, looked at the geometry chart of the bike and said no, it was too big for me. Bummer!
So, I brought up my second choice. He looked at the chart and said I was a size 50 (XS). The bike's designer/manufacturer's chart said I should buy a 52 (S) according to my height. I was skeptical but I ordered the frameset in. When it arrived and I took it out of the box I was shocked at how tiny it was!
The shop built it up and it fits me perfectly! So glad that I went to him now because if I had followed the recommendation...ugh!
Got my 1st bike this week in manchester and cant wait. I like that ‘if you feel you are over reaching you most definitely are’ Im definitely over reaching so looking forward to sorting that out
Keep preaching boys, some of it will get thru.......eventually 👏
Interesting comment about manufacturers sizing... yes, I've learned a "medium" could be anything from too small to legs swinging free of pedals too large... almost as bad as bottom bracket standards!
If your quads are sore after a big effort, and your hamstrings and glutes are not, your seat is too high. The ideal spot is when all 3 muscle groups work/fatigue equally. Agree most people fitted in bike shops are 20mm too high. Have spent the last 30 years thinking I knew how to set my saddle height. Recently went to a highly skilled fitter with back and knee pain, who dropped my seat 22mm. Feels very strange initially, but all my asymmetries, aches and pains are gone and I have more power. I would put cleats too far forward before shoes being too big as a common mistake. There is very little to no downsides to getting the cleats as far back in the shoes as they will physically go. If the seat goes down as well you don't lose the ability to spin a good cadence.
I got two rules in life: when your tailor is done with your pants measurements, have him add another centimeter to the length and when the guy in the shop is done with your bike fitting, go down one size on the frame.
Great video. I've made all these mistakes over the years and have the knee pain to prove it. If your video spares even a single rider of such pain, your work will have been worth it.
When I got into road bikes 5-6 years ago, I went to a very very well known major bike brand shop. They said I could fit on a 56cm frame if I wanted that bike. I ended up buying a 54cm from them as aa ride selected preference. I now ride a 51cm and I wish I been on this size so much earlier. I just went on the advice of the store/their qualified fitters!
Just for context, how tall are you?
@@benjaminpohl 175cm
I’m currently looking at getting a gravel bike; Ridley seems to be the only one suggesting I fit a 51 equivalent or XS in their sizing; everyone else advises a 54 or small; I’m leaning to the small but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. I know when I owned a Cervelo in a 54 2007/8 model that it always felt a bit big so look at geo a little bit smaller than that. What’s your inseam?
@@andrewallen9918 30 inch. shorter upper body. I think.
@@tdougs77 Thanks. I’m 173cm and 29.5inch so we’re almost the same proportions.
"Opening up the hips, yadda yadda yadda." Love it!
Many banging on about James said he is 5'-10'' and rides a 53. Well as he has previously said many so called 53cm frames won't have a damn single tube that measures 53cm. I heard him also say if he was to purchase an off the shelf ..Specialized, Trek etc. he would opt for a small or 52 despite their fitting chart advising 54 even 56. I'm same height and inseam as James and rode far too big a frame in the 80's ..Cinelli 22-1/2'' Bugger all pillar showing. Gone smaller and smaller over the year's until my latest gravel bike a 2018 Diverge I choose a 52. Man it looks like a kid's bike un-built. But experimented with stem length, saddle height and gone down to 170 cranks, cleats slammed back, It just feels right. Can't thank these two guy's enough for their time and passion. I too will get to James next year despite thinking I'm pretty close already.
Same here. I am 180 cm riding a Diverge 54 with 120mm stem and 170mm cranks with cleats almost fully behind. My friends all insisted that I should get a 56 but I feel fine.
Saddle height! I couldn't ride more than 30 miles without huge amounts of pain! After watching a previous video on saddle height where James mentioned catching the top tube with one knee, my problem was solved! Apparently now I'm a mileage monster! A cycling game changer for me! Cheers..
Went from 'finding James very annoying', to 'this guy is a genius', during this video. Subscribed!
Imagine riding for two decades to finally realize what you instinctively felt about the size of bike someone else said was correct because of your particular height isn’t necessarily true.
Thanks guys for lending confidence to us who for whatever reason choose to allow someone else to dictate how something ought to be done. Sure if everyone functioned optimally with the same gear well this video would not be needed. Cheers!
I've always found it odd that a lot of road cyclists are riding a bike too big (or set up as such) and it's only since I built up a 40 year old road frame last year that I now see your reasons why. Growing up on 90's/00's mtb things were kind of the other way round i.e. size down for maneuverability so I seem to have got my sizing figured out on the road... I like to think :)
An absolute legend! Pretty good summarization of the things that you've explained many many times. Keep it up!
Learnt a good fair bit from these recent bike fit/setup videos, every point has sound reasoning behind it. Made some decent changes on a new bike, all for the better.
Cheers!
This I simply the best video for anyone to watch who cycles.......Such great wisdom, as a Osteopath this guys rocks knowledge, stay safe and keep up videos-chaps.
"you could poach a salmon in that"... that's going to keep me laughing all day!... brilliant vid! 👍👍
haha thanks Robert
While I'm guilty of 2 of the 5 mistakes on my road bike which I did even know were wrong prior to bike fit Tuesdays and now I'm starting to feel the issues (stem too long bars too wide). I actually had pain in my right knee the other day on my MTB which I solved by raising the saddle 10mm so in conclusion bike fitting is hard and we could all do with a bike fit James to help us out.
Totally agree with #1. I also shortened the crank. Feels much better.
These are the only videos in all of RUclips that I watch at 1.0 speed. James is dropping knowledge like, uhhh, a peloton dropping water bottles before a big climb?
Worst ever bike fit mistake I’ve seen on this channel is Jame’s moustache whist on his bike.
😂
Loved to see a similar video with some actual information on how high the saddle should be and without chewing gum
Ok this is huge. I just watched this video and made 3 adjustments 1. I lowered my saddle by 20 mil. 2. I made a angle change to my bars. 3 i moved my saddle forward to the middle point of the rails. after which I took a ride and it was like a brand new bike.
👊
Biggest comfort increases I've had on my bike are 38/36cm bars, the narrower the better - takes all of the pressure off the shoulders and arms. Also ride 2 sizes smaller than 'recommended' as I've always found recommended frame sizes too big. Guilty of 120 neg rise stem however...
Question for James, if I have already bought a bike that I'm pretty sure is a little big for me (It was the bike I was dreaming about and I found it on offer with a slight scratch for £2500 off list price), is it still worth getting a fit to rejig it and make it fit a little better or will you just tut and tell me off for the entire fit session?
7:22 Thinking Canyon... 7:47 Yup, definitely Canyon.
Canyon tends to label their bike size too big. A medium on other brands is a small in Canyon.
100% agree!
but there are exceptions! the commuter frames tend to be right! 1,74cm, men, Gravelbike S, Commuter M.
Dito 😅
James dropping knowledge like corn kernels! Great video, as usual. Cheers, guys! 🍻🍻🍻
My problem was that my bike was purchased for me by a friend. It was a last year's stock, one size too big (I normally ride a 56 and this was a "59" according to Masi), and a final no return purchase. I have managed to make it work perfectly believe it or not. First was a zero offset seatpost, one size shorter stem, and a narrower bar, after all that I have used the advice from James on BFT.....no issues with comfort no matter the mileage ridden. It literally measured out to within an 1/8" to my original bike on reach, but the bar to seat drop was less, but better for me at my age.
I so like the no nonsense advice !
Very good video. Thanks James
Still waiting for the reach around joke though.
Just found this. Best bike fit I’ve had was James when at Sigma. Came down from Scotland for it
They were 10cm stems in 84 James 🙂 and Cinelli was the brand of choice. Some of the newer frames have the right length top tubes but the head tube lengths are way too long.
In my experience, most "medium-sized" bikes (54-56cm) still come with a 10cm stem from the factory.
I watched this to reassure my decision of buying a 53 frame after considering all the specs of the bike and my experience of 55 frames being too big. Yet, all the guides say that I'm a 55. Including a 'bike fit' that I had prior purchasing my 56 roubaix 4 years ago.
me too i was riding a bike that was off for me. my chance was when i found that the frame + saddle + saddle height and tilt were right for me (48 + 70cms SH i'm 5'7). at least i got that. but the stem was too short and too low. and my handlebars were too wide. 44 that i changed for 40. my saddle was too far behind too.
so from a 48 frame + -6° 100mm stem + 44 handlebars + saddle too far back >to> 48 frame + 120mm with 35° rise + 40mm handlebars + saddle about in the middle of the rails.
i took the right decision to stop cycling 2 weeks before the fitting to feel more incline to accept the drastic change. if you ride the days before, any small change will be perceived as huge and will make you uncomfortable. which is counter productive for the fitting and the fitter. i wanted to be able to stick to what he achieved for me. i prepared my mind to accept the change.
the thing that jumped into my face when i rode my bike after the fitting was how easy i was clipping the cleats. the pedal was right where it should be and clipped right away. i'm not searching for it like before. the other problem i had was the weird feeling i had in the climbs. sitted i was not happy at all, i couldn't put the ower down.
now i feel like i can put the power down no matter where i am. i really do feel connected. handling in the corners is like papa into mama. my weight is well distributed on the wheels. if you put a scale under each wheel, i'm sure i'd be close to 50/50 balance.
This is probably best common sense bike fit video on youtube
I was guilty of a few of these, until i got my bike fitted by a pro...
My saddle went down, my handlebar went down, and my seat went forward. I'm also using a shorter track crank (165mm)
Oh wow, turns out James bike shop is at the end of my road! I guess its not too far to travel.
“You could poach a salmon in that” 😂😂😂
James is like Martin Lewis the financial guy but for bikes. Gets like 1000 great tips into a minute and it's all understandable 😄
I know what direct to consumer brand he's talking about, hehehe. I wanna buy a bike from them and it seems too small, but measuring my current bike, and it's about bang on!
Great video!
Bike Fit Tuesday on a Tuesday?
Great channel and helpful advice.
Great video. I am a petite lady, less than 5 feet, and wish now I had had a fit prior to purchasing my bike. Maybe we would have made a different choice. We are now changing the cranks that came with the bike to a smaller crank that would best fit me to get ride of knee pain. So yes, bikes when you are not average height are an issue. I am lucky to have an excellent fitter here in Montreal.
The odd thing is that if you fit shorter cranks you will need to raise your saddle height and that will seriously help with your knees . Your legs will have to make a much small change in knee angle as you go through the pedal stroke .
Made absolutely perfect sense, thank you.
You are definitely talking about Canyon when it comes to sizing!
I bought the 2022 Raleigh Centros ebike and I had to buy it online as no shop locally had it in stock
Different types of bikes have different size requirements from what I've seen online and for EBikes it confirmed what I was advised. I spoke to the retailer and Raleigh and they said because I'm 6'2" that I need the 56cm one so I ordered it
It turns out it was too big and the saddle was already at it's lowest and so I'm having to send it back for the 52cm one
Someone said in a Facebook group I'm in that Raleigh bikes are a bit big and the size I was recommended was more suitable for someone 6'4"
I didn't feel safe on it and also the handlebars upon checking again, were too much of a stretch to use
The problem is that there is overlap for the sizes with some heights. I'm hoping that the replacement fits better and I have the option of raising the saddle slightly if necessary
I'm 6'3 with a large inseam size (3'1) and had a size 58 bike with standard sized stem. Now I switched to a size 61 Tarmac with a shorter stem and I finally cycle without pain
Saddle height to high, not forward enough, incline down to far or not enough, etc.. any number of issues. That will compress the nerves in the perineum area which can cause numbness and other problems. There are saddles that by design fix all that e.g. SQlab 612. You still need the saddle adjusted correctly though.
I'm off to cry in a corner knowing all my bikes are too big 😫😫😫
Same for me :( :D
I’m 5’2” and I have a size 16 trinx 29er. I already adapted to my bike. Maximum ride so far is 70km. I really love my big bike. It is so fast than a 26er and no effort on pedalling when Im tired. You just need to adapt to it. : )
@@vladimiripotzky5392 Well I rode my bike for ~2000km and not adapted :) just developed shoulder pain .. but I have shortened reach recently and everything seems to be fine so far. I also ordered narrower handlebars so fingers crossed everything will be fine :)
@@kox222 I have a very short stem and a small like a diamond shape saddle. I have no problem on reach now and so comfortable when I'm on the bike. I'm planning now for a universal or 27.5 rigid fork to make the frame lowered, but not wanting to make my tire small because I love a 29er bigger width tire.😎
The acromion proccess measure is the last bit of bone before the meat of the deltoid, or a bit before that at the end of the clavicle ? I get either 37cm for the first or 32cm for the latter. And how does this apply to MTB/flat/riser bars?
Yes!! I feel exactly like I’m doing a plank when I ride my bike.
The other thing about bike fit is that there is a lot of overlap between bike sizes now because of sloping top tubes. I am also 5'10" and I have ridden bikes as small as a 52 (530mm top tube) and a 56 (with a 545mm top tube). A lot of riders have issues with getting the right amount of stack as well... and too many people are chasing the "slammed" look and sacrificing their comfort and power to do so.
From a bike fit perspective. If someone is on a frame that's not quite the right size. Is too large or too small easier to compensate for with other factors such as seat height and stem?
Obviously, getting the right frame size is best, but not everyone is in a position to do that. Who will have it easier to compensate?
Yep I’m between sizes on almost any bike I’ve sat myself on. Either the reach is to long or the I can’t reach the pedals.
So I have to go for the lesser of 2 evils. You don’t have to have miles of seat post for the bike to fit you either as some point out.
Very entertaining. I'd buy a bike from these guys just for the experience never mind the know how.
I recently purchased a 56cm Trek Boone. Which is generally a good size for me. 2 issues, First I feel the reach is too short with a 100 mm stem. Not sure I want to go longer on a cross bike. Second my saddle is pushed all the way back. Is that bad for the saddle? Does that mean I need the next size up?
Love bike fit Tuesdays and getting bombarded by James 👌
BFT suggestion: Every time James addresses saddle height... the feedback is “saddle height too high = bad... nearly everyone needs it lowered”. In all likelihood, this issue is due to one common practice 99.9% of recreational cyclists use to set saddle height in the first place... “Heel on pedal, lock out knee w/ crank at 6 o’clock”... I’d like to see James discuss that method and the pros/cons of using it as a benchmark for saddle height.
I used it and it was too high
I always prefer to keep my saddle low. Also, after riding in one setup for a few months, I tend to revisit the fit. For saddle height, my test is to clip in one shoe, and check the feel when I move the pedal back and forth between 4o clock and 8o clock. If I can pull the pedal through with my ankle relaxed, then the saddle is not too high. If it is too high, I tend to shift on the saddle when the pedal is at 6o clock.
I used it then lowered my saddle by 10-20mm. that has been very comfortable. that method is just to get to the right ball park and then tweak from there, no?
On a Tuesday !?!? ..... What is the world coming too
How does road bike fit differ from a drop bar mountain bike? I have a merida reacto ltd and a salsa cutthroat. Should they be set up the same?
I like how Francis makes a "shameless plug" to his own channel, in a video on his own channel.
Also, I am about to get a bikefit scheduled. It's a shame James is so far away from me (I reside in the Netherlands), otherwise it would have been a no-brainer for me.
Lots of bikes are bought 2nd hand so just wondering is it possible to make a bike that's maybe very slightly too big usable and comfortable.
Interesting stuff this, there's so much to consider that has so far slipped me by. I'm 5 11 and usually found 56 was the best fit for me. I have a BMC Roadmachine in 56 which fits pretty nice but I'm not super happy with how it rides, particularly on low percentage inclines, but that's prob more to do with the carbon layup rather than the sizing. Somehow I enjoy my older racer size 58 with a super short stem. Now, after watching this, I'm tempted to try out a 54 or 55 and see how that feels. Scheduling a bike fit is sliding up my list of priorities.
I took James’ advice on a previous video about handlebar width and bought some 38’s. While they felt better at first over time I found I rested my palm too much on the bar where it bends around to the hood and had issues, got some 44 bars out of curiosity and the outside of my hands were more resting and distributed better which I found interesting
Interesting!
James loves saying 'asymmetrical interaction with the saddle' :-)
Question for James, if you were to do a time trial on your road bike and use clip on TT bars, should I make any changes to my normal set up.
Thank you.
Steve.
I once did a triathlon on my road bike. There were some modifications I did:
1. Add a clip-on TT bars. Obviously.
2. Change the standard seat post with Profile Design Fast Forward. It put your saddle position way forward, mimicking a TT bike saddle position.
3. Raise the saddle height a bit.
@@Risayogi Thank you.
Some bike shops don't really have the right knowledge. I was sold a bike that was slightly on the larger size. I felt bad, but then saw another fellow cyclist who is 4 inches shorter than me riding the same size as my bike. His saddle was all the way down. Was suprise because the bike shop where he bought the bike was a popular bike shop.
Really helpful advice. Thank you chaps!! I bought first instead of getting fitted, but it sounds like luckily I’ll be ok as I erred on the size of caution. (Do you see what I did there?)
Stuns me that any Bike Fitter, as their job, can place the rider in the wrong position HOWEVER I have experienced this. I paid for bikes fits over the years firstly to ward off injury and then on the Retul jig in order to purchase my 'forever bike'. After 3 purchases of my 'forever bikes' (limited due to the stack and reach numbers the fitter determined I required) and going slower for 3 years of racing and ending up feeling pretty sad about my racing I happened upon a "Proper bike fitter who knows his stuff". He took 35mm of spacers out of the stem stack, changed my 90mm 6deg stem to a 120mm -10deg stem and changed my 40mm bars to a better shape at the curve on the tops and and 7mm longer in the bar reach. Moved my cleats back and me better over the BB. I now just flop onto the bike with a flat back and can be in the drops all day. I took 20secs out of a flat 2min strava segment the first time out on the new fit. I now hold flat speed way better and dont blow my quads up, I climb better as I can get over the front of the bike now. I WANT to go racing again. You've GOT to get a good fitter and that doesnt mean the guy who spruiks the loudest and has the highest profile in your area, it means the guy who gives your a clear benefit not some vague "trust me it works' feeling.
Couldn’t agree more, there are too many “fitters” hiding behind Mo cap systems