What’s Wrong with Bike Fitting Jigs (& motion capture software) with Road Cycling Academy
Video What’s Wrong with Bike Fitting Jigs (& motion capture software) with Road Cycling Academy
Video What’s Wrong with Bike Fitting Jigs (& motion capture software) with Road Cycling Academy YouTube Channel.
What’s Wrong with Bike Fitting Jigs (& motion capture software)
Road cycling is a popular sport enjoyed by many enthusiasts around the world. It offers not only physical benefits but also a sense of freedom and exhilaration as cyclists navigate through various terrains and landscapes. To fully enjoy the sport and prevent injuries, proper bike fitting is essential. However, the use of jigs in bike fitting is a topic of debate among professionals in the field.
One of the reasons why some bike fitters do not use jigs is the issue of positional transference. When a rider is fitted on a jig and given detailed instructions on how to replicate the position on their own bike at home, there is a high risk of error. Not everyone has the skill or ability to perfectly transfer the measurements, leading to discomfort, pain, and dissatisfaction with the fitting. This can be particularly challenging for international clients who travel long distances for a fitting session and then struggle to replicate the position accurately on their own bikes.
Another reason why some bike fitters choose not to use jigs is the limitation of adjustable fittings for building custom frames. While custom frame builders may utilize jigs to create unique and personalized frames for their clients, bike fitters who focus on problem-solving and biomechanics may not see the need for such equipment. Additionally, the cost of acquiring and maintaining a jig can be high, making it a significant financial investment that may not be justified for all bike fitting practices.
In the context of using motion capture and angle-based software in conjunction with fitting jigs, there are additional challenges related to measurement errors. These systems, while technologically advanced, may suffer from issues of intra-tester and inter-tester reliability. The placement of motion capture dots on the rider’s body may vary between sessions, leading to significant discrepancies in the measurements and recommendations provided by the software. This can result in incorrect adjustments to the rider’s bike position, ultimately affecting their comfort and performance on the bike.
When considering a bike fitting session, it is important to look for a professional with a background in physiotherapy and a thorough understanding of human biomechanics. While formal degrees in kinematics or biomechanics are beneficial, practical experience and expertise in assessing and adjusting bike positions are equally important. A comprehensive fitting session should involve off-the-bike assessment, visual observations, and regular feedback from the rider to ensure a personalized and effective fit. A good bike fitter will prioritize the rider’s comfort and performance over relying solely on technology or rigid measurements.
In conclusion, the decision to use or not use jigs in bike fitting ultimately comes down to the individual practices, priorities, and philosophies of the bike fitters. While jigs can be useful for certain applications such as building custom frames or starting from scratch with a new rider, the challenges of positional transference and measurement errors may outweigh the benefits for some professionals. By focusing on individualized assessments, thorough observations, and effective communication with the rider, bike fitters can provide a superior fitting experience that enhances the rider’s enjoyment and performance in road cycling.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Road Cycling Academy and do not necessarily represent the views of Bicycles4ever Cycling Culture.
