Don't be fooled…there is only one true way to be properly fit to your bicycle. A trained fit technician must take the time to understand your unique needs as a cyclist and adjust the bicycle accordingly. Neither quick formulas, body measurements, nor the latest laser-guided machines are substitutes for a bicycle fit session. The human body is difficult to measure, and each person's flexibility, capabilities, and desires are unique to the individual.

At The Bicycle Escape, our Size-Cycle Certified Fit Technician will use the latest methods developed by physicians, cyclists, and fit specialists to ensure each rider the perfect fit. This process allows the client to experience multiple positions and offer feedback while being moved toward the ideal fit on our infinitely adjustable sizing tool. At any time during the fitting session, the client is encouraged to offer feedback. At the completion of the session, there is never any question regarding the final positioning of the bike.

This process will help any cyclist, from a casual rider to a professional athlete. You will become bio-mechanically efficient, balanced, comfortable, aerodynamic, and able to breathe more effectively, ride longer, and prevent injury. The finished product is never based on vague or hard to obtain body measurements or dated equations. It is based on how one individual moves on the bike given their unique abilities, limitations, and history of injuries.

Comfort Bio-mechanical efficiency Reduced chance of injury Increased ability to intake oxygen Aero dynamics Balance Ability to enjoy longer rides Improved handling and control

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Cleat Alignment using the Rotational Adjustment Device (R.A.D.) If you are like most cyclists, you already know that clipless pedals offer an exceptional cycling experience. With clipless pedals, power increases and performance improves. What you may not realize is that clipless pedals are more efficiently used when cleats are aligned for each individual rider. Correct positioning offers the least amount of body stress and the greatest amount of comfort and safety. This is as important for the casual rider as it is for the competitive athlete. If you would like to learn more about cleat alignment or you would like to schedule a quick and easy appointment, call us at 301.663.0007 or e-mail us. ¬ back to top

1. The Interview The process begins with an interview that introduces the Fit Specialist to you and your cycling history. Several questions are asked about your cycling goals, strengths and weaknesses, as well as an overview of injuries or health issues that may affect your riding position.

2. Inseam and Shoulder Measurement Second, two quick body measurements are recorded to establish a starting point. Measuring your shoulder width helps the technician select the appropriate handle bar. The inseam measurement assesses your ability to stand comfortably over the top tube of the bicycle. It is important to note that bicycle frames are not sized off one’s inseam measurement alone.

3. Flexibility Assessment During this stage the technician documents your flexibility. This provides some guidelines for position on the bike. One should not be at the end range of their flexibility when in their riding stance. Once correct positioning is achieved a cyclist should feel both balanced and comfortable.

4. Size-Cycle Fitting At this point, the information gathered in the previous steps is converted and applied to a fully adjustable stationary bike called a size-cycle. As you spin on the bike the technician views your movements and gradually adapts the machine to accommodate your body. Viewed in the purest sense the technician is orienting the human body in space. Once your body is properly positioned, the coordinates are recorded. They can then be applied to any bicycle, stock or custom.

5. Computrainer Pro The Bicycle Escape uses one of the most advanced tools for biofeedback: the Computrainer Pro. This device provides a non-biased view of how effectively you are performing. The information is then used to increase your average watt output and maximize the efficiency of every pedal stroke.

6a. Drafting of a custom frame

Next measurements are taken off the Size-Cycle and applied to a production or custom bike. If one opts to have a custom bike designed the frame builder will create a bike that will position the rider properly and handle like a dream. Because they create each bike for one individual the model is up to the rider. We will explain the differences and work with you to select the best frame for your use. Our staff will also help you select the best components and different finish options.

6b. Test Ride

While custom is always the best option it is often possible to properly fit an athlete to a stock bike.  After the fitting we are happy to alter any of our bikes to your fitting specifications. This is especially helpful if you choose to purchase a production bike.  We will determine which stock geometry will best suit your needs. In some cases we can set up your existing bike to match the Size-Cycle coordinates.

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At the conclusion of the fitting session, you are armed with the most valuable information to purchase your new bike. This could be a bike custom tailored in every way to match your needs or a modified stock bike. Either way the goal is for the bike to mirror your fitting documentation. A custom product will ensure ideal fit as well as give the frame builder the freedom to tune the bicycle’s ride quality. The ride quality is adjusted based on an athlete’s weight, riding style, and individual preferences. Custom frames are designed in such a way that the rider can expect many years, if not a lifetime, of comfort and proper fit. Riding a bicycle handcrafted specifically for you is a cycling experience like no other! Custom bikes are not disposable machines, rather vehicles to cherish for a lifetime.

Check out the process of building a custom frame

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