Buying a new bike is exciting — whether it’s your first serious road bike, a long-overdue upgrade, or a targeted move into triathlon or gravel riding. But here’s something many riders don’t realize until it’s too late: most bikes are sold as “one-size-fits-most,” but your body and riding goals are uniquely yours.
That’s where your bike fitter comes in — before the purchase.
A Recent Experience That Says It All
We recently received a heartfelt message from a rider we worked with that highlights exactly why bike fit should come before the bike purchase, not after. Here’s what she shared:
“Mark,
I want to personally say thank you for the wonderful bike fit you provided to me yesterday May 24, 2025.
You treated me very well and never at one time did you make me feel bad about myself or my bike. You took the time to explain things to me and my husband and that speaks volumes. We were not just another number to you.
I ordered the aero calf sleeves and I’m excited to try them. I’m looking for the aero bars.
I also wanted to know if you can tell me what size bike I should look for? I know you said 165 cranks so I’ll look for that. Other than that I don’t know. Small? 50?”
This rider came in not just for help dialing in their position — but also to better understand what kind of bike would actually suit them. We went over crank length, cockpit dimensions, and the importance of reach and stack. But what really made this session successful was that it happened before a new bike was purchased. That meant we could work proactively rather than reactively.
The Mistake Too Many Cyclists Make
Many riders head straight to a bike shop or click “Buy Now” online, only to find the fit isn't right — maybe the reach is too long, the saddle can’t be adjusted far enough, or the cranks feel awkward. Then comes the expensive game of upgrades, adjustments, or sometimes just enduring a bike that never quite works.
A proper pre-purchase fit consultation helps you avoid:
Buying the wrong frame size
Choosing the wrong geometry for your goals
Spending money on unnecessary or incompatible components
Wasting time managing discomfort or underperformance
What a Pre-Purchase Fit Can Tell You
When you work with a fitter before buying, you get a blueprint. We provide guidance on:
Ideal frame size (e.g., 50cm, Small, etc.)
Correct crank length (like the 165mm cranks recommended in the review above)
Best handlebar width and drop
Optimal saddle height and fore-aft position
Whether to look for endurance, race, or aero geometry
Which aero bar systems or accessories suit your position
You're Not Just a Number
As the review said, “We were not just another number to you.” That’s our goal every time. Bike fitting is a deeply personal process, because your body, goals, and preferences are unique. Whether you’re chasing podiums or just want to ride pain-free, the right fit — and the right bike — matter.
Planning a New Bike Purchase? Start With a Fit
If you're thinking about a new ride, don’t wait until after the purchase to think about fit. Start the process with a fitting session. You’ll walk away with confidence, clarity, and maybe even a few aero calf sleeves to match.
Let’s build your next bike around you — not the other way around.
Ready to find your perfect fit before you buy?
Get in touch to schedule a pre-purchase fit consultation. Your body will thank you — and so will your future self.
