7
Ergonomic recommendations
Keep
in
mind
that
these
recommendations should only be used
as a reference. The theories of the bike
fitting science vary even between
experienced specialists. No one has the same body
proportion, flexibility or injury history. Ideally, you
should be comfortable while riding your bike.
Achieving the right position can require some
experimentation and counselling from a fitting
specialist.
Handlebar height
The handlebar can be fitted on a wide
range of position changing significantly
the torso angle. Set the handlebar high for
a more comfortable position or low for a
more performant position.
Saddle height
A properly adjusted saddle height allows
for a better leg deployment while
pedaling. It will prevent joint injuries over
longer rides and improve your muscular
efficiency.
A simple and common way to determine a
rider’s recommended saddle height is to
measure the distance from the groin to
the ground while standing against a wall
(a measure generall
y called ‘inseam’) then
multiply that number by a factor of 0.8
The resulting value can then be used to
set the saddle’s
height from the
chainwheel center as illustrated next.
Foot position on the pedal
The first condition for an efficient
pedalling motion is to position the foot
straight and with the ball of the foot inline
with the pedal axle as per illustration
below.
Illustrations above showing a bare
foot for bone alignment reference
only. Do not ride your bike without
shoes.
