Biomechanical Bike Fit for optimal performance and health
Go faster, go further
Health problems from poor bike fit
Common problems
Thomas Zhou, Oak Bay
Physiotherapist and bike fit specialist.
Thomas Zhou is a physiotherapist and provides Biomechanical Bike Fitting services. He is a cycling enthusiast and has completed multiple Fondos including the Whistler Gran Fondo.
Joshua Grawbarger, Westshore
Physiotherapist and bike fit specialist.
Joshua is a physiotherapist and provides Biomechanical Bike Fitting services. He is a cycling and multisport athlete.
Biomechanical Bike Fit
Whether you are a rain-or-shine commuter or a fair weather weekend warrior, it is essential you get a Biomechanical Bike Fit.
Avoiding one may result in back, neck, shoulder and saddle pain and discomfort. Pain while cycling can be attributed to issues with saddle height, fore/aft, cleat alignment, stem height and/or handle bar rotation. A proper bike fit is important to ensure pain-free rides and to avoid undue stress on both your body and your bicycle. You will no longer dread the soreness that comes with a poorly fitted ride and, as a result, you’ll enjoy the sport!
Part One: Biomechanical Screen/Physical Assessment
The first part of the session is the biomechanical assessment/movement screen. During this part of session the therapist will review relevant past medical history and note the client’s cycling volume/goals. The therapist will then note pain or discomfort the client is experiencing on his/her bike. Finally, the therapist will perform relevant physical therapy tests for muscle strength, tissue length and joint range motion.
Part Two: Bike Fit
The second part of the session is the actual bike fit. The client’s bike is secured on the stationary trainer and the therapist will observe the client as they pedal.
The therapist then systematically adjusts the bike to ensure the client is comfortable on his/her bike. As the series of tests are conducted and measurements are made, the therapist will make the appropriate adjustments. The therapist will make use of goniometers, levels, lasers and plumb lines to accurately measure and adjust your bike to biomechanically healthy ranges.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bike Fit covered under my benefits?
Yes! The Biomechanical Bike Fit Assessment can be covered under your physiotherapy benefits in your extended health care plan. The amount of coverage depends on your insurance policy. If you have concerns about your coverage please reach out to us and we will work to find a solution.
Is a Bike fit only for elite cyclists?
Absolutely NOT! A bike fit is for all levels of cyclists and all types of bikes. Whether you are on your daily Victoria commuter or a shiny new Pinarello, everyone deserves to feel comfortable and happy on their bike. Although our goals on our bikes may be different, the process to get you there is consistent and rooted in biomechanical measurements.
What should I bring?
Please wear your usual cycling attire and don’t forget to bring your cycling shoes, shorts, and bike along with you. Yes, bike….it’s happened before. If you are not clipped in don’t worry, we can still perform the bike fit!
What else can I do to prepare for the bike fit?
If you have any saddle bags, bike pouches, lights or fenders, please try to remove them in advance of the session. These accessories can limit access to certain parts of the bike that need to be adjusted and can delay the bike fit. Also, if you have any anti-theft components on your bike and have special tools for those, please bring them.