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 Performance, comfort, and safety are the three most important characteristics of a good bicycle, and one crucial aspect ties them together more than any other - the fit of the bicycle. When you visit Jack's Bicycle & Fitness, we are going to talk to you about the sizes of different frames. Trust us, we know the our bicycles well and will help you find the best fitting frame. But it is still helpful to know a few things about how frames are sized and what a good fit should be like. Frame sizes are measured by the length between the point in the frame where the seat post goes into the frame to the pivot point of the cranks. So if you hear someone call a frame an 18', it means that there are 18 inches between these points. Mountain bicycles are generally measured in inches, with sizes like 16.5, 18, and 19.5, and road bicycles are measured in centimeters, with sizes like 54, 56, and 58. Because of different tube shapes and frame geometry's, many manufacturers measure their frame in slightly different ways. One might measure from the top point where the seat post goes into the frame while another might measure from the point where the top-tube intersects the down-tube. Because of this, sizes don't translate between brands. Just because you fit an 18 in one brand doesn't mean you should be on an 18 in another. | ||||||||||||||
 Good leg and foot positioning is key to effective pedaling, preventing undue stress during the ride and undue soreness or gradual injury. | ||||||||||||||
At the top of your pedal stroke, your thigh should be angled downward slightly, never horizontal or above your hips. |
At the middle of your pedal stroke (crank arm parallel to the ground), your forward knee should be directly over the pedal axle. |
At the bottom of your pedal stroke, your knee and ankle should be slightly bent, never fully extended. The ball of your foot should be over the pedal spindle, with your foot comfortably centered and level. | ||||||||||||
 Bike designs are varied to place your body in an optimal position for different types of riding. The key is to reach your handlebars easily and comfortably, with no undue strain in operating levers or looking ahead. | ||||||||||||||
Hybrid, or multipurpose, frame designs place your body inan upright position with your head up, for good visibility and control under varying conditions. |
Off Road frame designs place your body inan upright position with your head up, for good visibility and control under varying conditions. Off Road frames place your body in a slightly tucked, forward leaning, "aggressive" position that prepares you for rigorous, demanding riding conditions. |
Road frame designs position your body lower, with weight equally distributed over a longer, aerodynamic profile. | ||||||||||||
As with leg position, the key to proper arm position is to never fully extend, or lock, your elbows and shoulders. Also, remember to stay relaxed. During high-intensity riding, tensing your arms and hands increases fatigue and soreness. Staying loose promotes comfort and improves your ability to handle your bicycle. Elbows should have a relaxed, slight bend. Never locked.
Jack's Bicycle Fitting
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A good fit from the saddle to the handlebars is most important.
