Professional Bike Fitting

Faulty Cycling Mechanics and Injury Development

Faulty cycling mechanics play a significant role in the development of cycling-related injuries. When a rider's position on the bike, or their pedaling technique, deviates from an optimal biomechanical alignment, it can lead to inefficient power transfer, increased stress on certain joints and tissues, and ultimately, overuse injuries. For example, a saddle that is too high can lead to Achilles tendonitis or hamstring strains due to excessive ankle plantarflexion or overextension of the knee. Conversely, a saddle that is too low can cause patellofemoral pain syndrome due to increased knee flexion and compression. Similarly, cleat position, handlebar reach, and even core stability all contribute to the overall biomechanics of the rider. Deviations in any of these areas can create imbalances that, over time, manifest as pain and injury.

Evaluating and Addressing Common Faulty Cycling Mechanics

Our professional bike fitting process systematically evaluates and addresses common faulty cycling mechanics through a comprehensive approach:

Rider Interview and Assessment

Medical History:

Discussing past injuries, pain points, and medical conditions that might influence bike fit.

Cycling Goals: Understanding the rider's objectives (e.g., performance, comfort, injury prevention).

On-Bike Assessment

Dynamic Analysis: Observing the rider's pedaling stroke and body position while cycling on a trainer. This allows for real-time identification of issues like knee tracking, hip rocking, shoulder shrugging, or excessive wrist extension.
Foot-Pedal Interface: Assessing cleat position, rotational float, and the need for shims or wedges to optimize foot alignment and prevent hot spots or numbness.
Saddle Position: Adjusting saddle height, fore/aft, and tilt to achieve optimal knee angle, hip angle, and pressure distribution. This aims to prevent issues like knee pain, saddle sores, and numbness.
Handlebar Position: Modifying handlebar height, reach, and rotation to ensure a comfortable and efficient upper body position, reducing strain on the neck, shoulders, and lower back. This includes assessing hood and drop positions.

Addressing Specific Faulty Mechanics

Knee Tracking Issues: Often addressed through cleat adjustments, varus/valgus wedging, or insoles to support proper foot alignment and reduce medial or lateral knee stress.
Lower Back Pain: Can be alleviated by adjusting saddle fore/aft, handlebar reach, or stack height to reduce excessive spinal flexion and improve core engagement. Core strengthening exercises may also be recommended.
Neck and Shoulder Discomfort: Frequently resolved by optimizing handlebar height and reach to reduce hyperextension of the neck or excessive weight bearing on the hands.
Foot Numbness/Hot Spots: Typically addressed by optimizing cleat position, ensuring adequate shoe fit, and considering insoles or pressure relief modifications.
Hip Pain: Can stem from various sources, including saddle height, fore/aft, or cleat position. Adjustments are made to ensure optimal hip joint angles and smooth leg extension.

Follow-Up and Education

Rider Education: Explaining the rationale behind adjustments and providing guidance on proper pedaling technique and off-bike exercises.

Follow-Up: Offering follow-up appointments to fine-tune the fit as the rider adapts or their needs change.

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307-267-0549

for your Bike fit!