Thank you for the raw honesty and the invaluable advice! I'm a very big individual (313 lbs/ 143 kg) love my cycling shoes, but have struggled with finding the correct stance! Despite size, I do cycle long distances (100 to 200 km) and have experienced pain on the outsides of both shoes/ feet. I'm gonna correct the cleats and see what happens! Please consider doing a video with bikefitting tips for larger riders, a lot of people in our community would appreciate that. I'll let everyone know in the blog and social media. Thanks!
did it make any difference for your knees? I have a similar problem on long distances... although I'm not very heavy but have wide hips... so I wonder if I should increase the pedal axis length :)
I find it extremely interesting to watch someone explain pedal stance with such enthusiasm and energy because prior to watching this video, I never really thought of it but after watching, I had to say to myself of course, that made so much sense, and I possibly found a solution to my minor shoe and pedal discomfort.
A big shout-out to James and Francis today. Bought a pair of G8s online and followed the fitting instructions on the manufacturer's website. My feet feel more stable and my toes can spread out nicely when pedalling under load. I've also moved my cleats back 2 millimetres in both shoes which probably contributes to the feeling of greater stability. Whatever my current position, probably BOFPA still... but less than before, it feels really good, stable and powerful so I'm going to stick with it. Thank you for the content and excellent advice.
Thanks Francis for bringing James knowledge on a often over looked topic . Q factor along with cleat float can save or kill your knees and hips plus less important wear the logo off your crank arms . As mentioned many times before , James needs his own channel although he may be too busy to spend hours editing video , that's your job and do it well ..
This is nicely timed as I've been experimenting recently with the width of my cleat position after discovring my right leg making all sorts of crazy shapes during the end of a 64 mile bike ride.
James pretty much totally confirming my suspicions that my feet are too close together. I am a overweight rider and I do walk a bit toe out, not massively but a bit. Got into cycling about 2 months ago and about a week ago I got Shimano pedals and shoes. MTB ones because I need to walk about 500 meters on my commutes. Anyway I do get pain on the outsides of my feet exactly as James talked about and demonstrated. Have now ordered 20mm extenders and hopefully those will solve the problem together with some cleat adjustments :) There is so much knowledge to be absorbed on this channel. Big thanks to you and James!
@@Cade_Media Those 40mm spacers did the trick! I've done two commutes since installing them and no more pain. I feel so much more comfortable on the bike now! Again thanks to James for putting me on the right track to solving it!
As this was mentioned before, I tried it out I while ago and moved my feet closer to the bike. My pedal stroke felt a lot smoother instantly and my knees were further away from the toptube. A very good tip, that one.
I've tried moving my cleats to the inside of my shoe and my foot went numb, I've now got pedal extensions and what a difference its made ( for the better ). It started with shin splints in the outside of my shins which made me look at my natural stance, which was 10cm difference between stance and pedals.
Thanks for making this video. Personally I use some titanium pedal extenders I got off fleabay they work terrifically. Got them on both my bikes. Massively much better feeling in the ankles. I used to get pains after the 300-400 km mark when touring or on audax
I'm "cyclist big," 91kg, 6 feet+. I live in a mountainous area and I have been told that my left knee bows out, plus I get a "hotspot". I also see evidence on the cleat, that I roll my foot out, as you described. I have attached a 10mm steel extender on it and it seems to have solved the problem.
Oh dear, that might well have been me with the wide axle Speedplays :) There was some logic in it at the time even if James got me back in standard ones although had to have the cleats set furthest apart to maximise stance width.
I need to watch every lecture from Professor James in slo-mo so I can keep up and take notes. And James should have a clip of that Queen song play whenever a customer opens the front door.
Super helpful! Confirming what I think - my pedals too far apart causing inner knee pain. Had my kid video me & my knees buckle inward. I’m a beanpole as you say (5’11” 135 lb), so this makes sense. I’ve been using SPD on my Peloton, was fine for 900 rides, injured ankle and am getting back into it after months. My mechanics are clearly off & this isn’t helping. Looks like I need to go back to Look cleats/pedal.
Yup, pushing the cleats as far back as possible gives you more of a midfoot position which is definitely the way to go. Both ends of the arch need support, not just the forefoot.
I mean, but what about that the drive side is further out and the non-drive is closer by a mm or so? Shouldn't stance (movement out or in) be different left to right because of this?
So interesting to listen to Frances, when I first started cycling i used to get quite a bit of pain from the side of my feet but was told to try speed plays as I was using SPD pedals as there was more Flute in speed plays and that Took the pain away from my feet, But would love to find the time to try them in souls that you have but it’s just finding the time to come down to have been fitted, as I can completely relate to what you are saying about them.
So given this information, would it be safe to assume that if the knee comes in at the top of the pedal stroke that narrowing the stance may be effective? My right knee definitely comes in and sometimes even touches the top tube while pedaling.
I'm a skinny guy and have low hip mobility so I need wider q factor than normal. Just had a bike fit with Steve Hogg and it appears he has to get in some kiwi pedals as Shimano and Speed play don't have correct width for my hips. My right leg has been tracking outward for years unfortunately,hope this will solve the issue. Thanks for a great video, all the points made were applicable to my situation too.
What did james say that would be bad about placing the cleat (laterally) as near the inside of the foot as possible? Can you feel it or is it just better for the shoe when the cleats are as centered as possible?
Hey Francis, I’ve got a query that could go into a Bike Fit Tuesday video. My natural pedalling style seems to be with my toes point downwards at the bottom of the pedal stroke, outside of the ‘accepted’ window. Bike fitters have fiddle with cleat position and saddle height, but it hasn’t changed that much. I’d be interested to know James’ take.
Brilliant. I just picked up some insoles because of the last video. Might be looking for some axle washers too. Washers have any affect on pedal based power meters? IE Garmin Vector, Assioma, etc.?
Sorry, what was the man saying about you can't go wrong to… far back? What does it mean? It means it won't hurt to move your feet as close to the bike as possible? Thx. Great info
A question for BFJ as just curious - how much is bike fitting science and how much is art? I’ve been a personal trainer for 2 decades and used to spend months getting clients to squat text book style until I learned that some amazing squatters squat slightly off kilter and trying to line them up as a text book says actually throws their individual movement off and upsets structures that have spent years stabilising in that individual alignment. You can say the same for Paula Radcliffe’s bobbing head or Michael Johnson’s pushed forward chest...not textbook but you wouldn’t want to change them as they coped just fine. Who knows if realigning their technique would reduce injury or improve performance but it’s an interesting area of debate. So with bike fits I was just wondering how much a fitter just follows ‘acceptable ranges’ from a book or a computer program and how much is in the experienced eye of the fitter? Sorry to ramble...brevity isn’t my middle name 🤣
The 'Q' stands for 'Quotient'. It's not unique to this use by any means. Basically, it's an index of measurement, in this case, the length between the pedal orbits.
The Q angle in the medical field is the increased angulation of a female’s wider pelvis affecting the hip, the knee and lower leg. This will need the cleats to be adjusted differently with women versus men.
What is James' opinion on oval chain rings e.g. rotor qrings - has he ever seen them produce the gains that they advertise and could they potentially cause issues elsewhere?
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It's sad but I could listen to the Duff Man talking bike fit all day long, gems of info every time
His knowledge is brilliant and his exclamation is even better 🇦🇺🚴🏼♀️🍻
Thank you for the raw honesty and the invaluable advice! I'm a very big individual (313 lbs/ 143 kg) love my cycling shoes, but have struggled with finding the correct stance! Despite size, I do cycle long distances (100 to 200 km) and have experienced pain on the outsides of both shoes/ feet. I'm gonna correct the cleats and see what happens! Please consider doing a video with bikefitting tips for larger riders, a lot of people in our community would appreciate that. I'll let everyone know in the blog and social media. Thanks!
did it make any difference for your knees?
I have a similar problem on long distances... although I'm not very heavy but have wide hips... so I wonder if I should increase the pedal axis length :)
I find it extremely interesting to watch someone explain pedal stance with such enthusiasm and energy because prior to watching this video, I never really thought of it but after watching, I had to say to myself of course, that made so much sense, and I possibly found a solution to my minor shoe and pedal discomfort.
This guy puts on a Masterclass of effective communication. I tip my hat.
Could listen to James all day. This is the man I'm gonna see for next bike 🙏🏽
A big shout-out to James and Francis today. Bought a pair of G8s online and followed the fitting instructions on the manufacturer's website. My feet feel more stable and my toes can spread out nicely when pedalling under load. I've also moved my cleats back 2 millimetres in both shoes which probably contributes to the feeling of greater stability. Whatever my current position, probably BOFPA still... but less than before, it feels really good, stable and powerful so I'm going to stick with it. Thank you for the content and excellent advice.
Thanks Francis for bringing James knowledge on a often over looked topic . Q factor along with cleat float can save or kill your knees and hips plus less important wear the logo off your crank arms . As mentioned many times before , James needs his own channel although he may be too busy to spend hours editing video , that's your job and do it well ..
I could listen to the Spartacus speaking and explaining all day, excellent information thanks for both of you
This is nicely timed as I've been experimenting recently with the width of my cleat position after discovring my right leg making all sorts of crazy shapes during the end of a 64 mile bike ride.
James pretty much totally confirming my suspicions that my feet are too close together. I am a overweight rider and I do walk a bit toe out, not massively but a bit. Got into cycling about 2 months ago and about a week ago I got Shimano pedals and shoes. MTB ones because I need to walk about 500 meters on my commutes. Anyway I do get pain on the outsides of my feet exactly as James talked about and demonstrated. Have now ordered 20mm extenders and hopefully those will solve the problem together with some cleat adjustments :)
There is so much knowledge to be absorbed on this channel. Big thanks to you and James!
Sweet! Let us know how it goes ✌️
@@Cade_Media Those 40mm spacers did the trick! I've done two commutes since installing them and no more pain. I feel so much more comfortable on the bike now! Again thanks to James for putting me on the right track to solving it!
James needs his own channel 😃
He already does! 😀 ruclips.net/channel/UCoITk4L2KbnSHwHwwiweNEQ
As this was mentioned before, I tried it out I while ago and moved my feet closer to the bike. My pedal stroke felt a lot smoother instantly and my knees were further away from the toptube.
A very good tip, that one.
Knowledge upon knowledge, thank's Francis for bringing James to us
I've tried moving my cleats to the inside of my shoe and my foot went numb, I've now got pedal extensions and what a difference its made ( for the better ). It started with shin splints in the outside of my shins which made me look at my natural stance, which was 10cm difference between stance and pedals.
Thanks for making this video. Personally I use some titanium pedal extenders I got off fleabay they work terrifically. Got them on both my bikes. Massively much better feeling in the ankles. I used to get pains after the 300-400 km mark when touring or on audax
I'm "cyclist big," 91kg, 6 feet+. I live in a mountainous area and I have been told that my left knee bows out, plus I get a "hotspot". I also see evidence on the cleat, that I roll my foot out, as you described.
I have attached a 10mm steel extender on it and it seems to have solved the problem.
Oh dear, that might well have been me with the wide axle Speedplays :) There was some logic in it at the time even if James got me back in standard ones although had to have the cleats set furthest apart to maximise stance width.
Question... I'm a big guy weigh 300 lb. I cannot use my clipless shoes or pedals even with extenders. Does with make a difference with flats
I need to watch every lecture from Professor James in slo-mo so I can keep up and take notes. And James should have a clip of that Queen song play whenever a customer opens the front door.
Very interesting from James as always, and the editing on your last few vlogs has been nothing short of brilliant. Kudos 👍🏼
Super helpful! Confirming what I think - my pedals too far apart causing inner knee pain. Had my kid video me & my knees buckle inward. I’m a beanpole as you say (5’11” 135 lb), so this makes sense. I’ve been using SPD on my Peloton, was fine for 900 rides, injured ankle and am getting back into it after months. My mechanics are clearly off & this isn’t helping. Looks like I need to go back to Look cleats/pedal.
Another fab explanation from James, still really need to get in for a fit one day soon.
Cheers for taking the time to make the video Francis
Yup, pushing the cleats as far back as possible gives you more of a midfoot position which is definitely the way to go. Both ends of the arch need support, not just the forefoot.
I mean, but what about that the drive side is further out and the non-drive is closer by a mm or so? Shouldn't stance (movement out or in) be different left to right because of this?
That guy would kill it with his own channel. Doesn't matter what he does with it.
So interesting to listen to Frances, when I first started cycling i used to get quite a bit of pain from the side of my feet but was told to try speed plays as I was using SPD pedals as there was more Flute in speed plays and that Took the pain away from my feet, But would love to find the time to try them in souls that you have but it’s just finding the time to come down to have been fitted, as I can completely relate to what you are saying about them.
My left foot face inwards when I am pedaling but is faces forward when walking. Why is this? How can I correct it?
If you move the cleat all the way back to you have to ammend saddle height or for/aft ? Thank you 👍
Genuinely helpful. Now if he could just move a little closer to the west coast of Canada.
So given this information, would it be safe to assume that if the knee comes in at the top of the pedal stroke that narrowing the stance may be effective? My right knee definitely comes in and sometimes even touches the top tube while pedaling.
Yes, worth a try
Saddle's too high
I don’t understand a word. But, I can’t stop watching. I must be off my meds.
I'm listening to James talk, but watching the Vegan Cyclist on the TV behind James from your trip here to the US. :-)
I'm a skinny guy and have low hip mobility so I need wider q factor than normal. Just had a bike fit with Steve Hogg and it appears he has to get in some kiwi pedals as Shimano and Speed play don't have correct width for my hips. My right leg has been tracking outward for years unfortunately,hope this will solve the issue. Thanks for a great video, all the points made were applicable to my situation too.
Superb advice as normal, thanks for sharing, So helpful.
What did james say that would be bad about placing the cleat (laterally) as near the inside of the foot as possible? Can you feel it or is it just better for the shoe when the cleats are as centered as possible?
Hey Francis, I’ve got a query that could go into a Bike Fit Tuesday video. My natural pedalling style seems to be with my toes point downwards at the bottom of the pedal stroke, outside of the ‘accepted’ window. Bike fitters have fiddle with cleat position and saddle height, but it hasn’t changed that much. I’d be interested to know James’ take.
Brilliant.
I just picked up some insoles because of the last video. Might be looking for some axle washers too. Washers have any affect on pedal based power meters? IE Garmin Vector, Assioma, etc.?
Not sure, they probably will. But those power meters aren't very accurate anyway ;)
No they don’t but I’d advise against the use of a pedal based power meter
Bikefit James Why’s that?
Oh! Not all of us can have the Rolls Royce of power meters with a Quarq. ;) Thanks!
Hey, what do you think about pedal extenders? Which is usually 20mm attachment to the pedal for bigger guys?
There's a slight mechanical disadvantage to a wide stance so if you don't have any biomechanical problems with staying narrow you should really do so.
Sorry, what was the man saying about you can't go wrong to… far back? What does it mean? It means it won't hurt to move your feet as close to the bike as possible? Thx. Great info
As far back on the shoe as possible, towards the heel
Can shoe rub be fixed with longer pedal spindles?
What should you cover next? What about the link between the cerebellum and feet?
Kinc Mahdenys Via the central pattern generator ☝🏻
How about pedal spacers? Like 20 mm?
A question for BFJ as just curious - how much is bike fitting science and how much is art? I’ve been a personal trainer for 2 decades and used to spend months getting clients to squat text book style until I learned that some amazing squatters squat slightly off kilter and trying to line them up as a text book says actually throws their individual movement off and upsets structures that have spent years stabilising in that individual alignment. You can say the same for Paula Radcliffe’s bobbing head or Michael Johnson’s pushed forward chest...not textbook but you wouldn’t want to change them as they coped just fine. Who knows if realigning their technique would reduce injury or improve performance but it’s an interesting area of debate.
So with bike fits I was just wondering how much a fitter just follows ‘acceptable ranges’ from a book or a computer program and how much is in the experienced eye of the fitter?
Sorry to ramble...brevity isn’t my middle name 🤣
Day combination of the two. There are times when I use gut instinct to solve a problem
Does wider stance affect aerodynamic significantly?
"Q Factor" is commonly used in many disciplines involving an electrical/,mechanical parameter. Loudspeakers and ECGs use Q.
Even Star Trek had a Q.
The 'Q' stands for 'Quotient'. It's not unique to this use by any means. Basically, it's an index of measurement, in this case, the length between the pedal orbits.
so putting ur cleats far back can really help to avoid pains in fewer dimensions?
It stabilizes the foot, worth a try if you have pain.
Francis-can you link James’ shop address or website? I have a London trip coming up and would like to go by.
www.bicyclerichmond.co.uk/
Thanks, you Legend. If you’re in town, maybe we can grab a coffee.
James always drops mad knowledge.
The Q angle in the medical field is the increased angulation of a female’s wider pelvis affecting the hip, the knee and lower leg. This will need the cleats to be adjusted differently with women versus men.
isnt a difference in microbars that small within margin of error?
Excellent video.
Bikefiting thursday in friday, so close:-)
2:06 "skinny little tiny man"
💀
What is James' opinion on oval chain rings e.g. rotor qrings - has he ever seen them produce the gains that they advertise and could they potentially cause issues elsewhere?
Even laster?
I think I just realized something. Thanks.
James bring back the beard, just saw a video from 2 years ago that look was döpe
Is considered some type of vlog inception if your filming a vlog while your vlogs are being played in the background? Oh, and incidently .... last.
In the background Project California on the big screen with the Vegan Cyclist
James is Jenius. Benny Cumberbatch strikes again.
most excellent
First 💥💪🏼 (🤥). To be fair I was cycling so that’s an automatic upgrade to first (ish) 💥💪🏼
Q-factor matters when you are already at the limit. My stance is so narrow that my shoes rub on the cranks.
Why do my feet fall asleep? I have to unclip and shake it out every 15 miles.
Checkout Sagan's Q.
E M runs long axled pedals
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F..k me James without a beard!
To quote James, “uuuhhhhhh...”
NIce to see Tyler a.k.a. VeganCyclist in the screen behind
lastest sausage
"UHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"
Vegancyclist in the background lol
First : interesting topic
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Yes nibbs the only person who pulled through
ADHD???
Queer factor?
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