newbert

As a 60 year old rider (and first-time poster), I wasn't sure whether to post this question here or on the 50+ forum. I hope that I'm in the right place....

When I bought my Specialized Expedition bicycle 5 years ago, the fitting didn't go farther than "Yeah, the seat height looks about right for you....". Although the Expedition isn't a high end bike, I feel that it suits my purposes fine, and I get it tuned each year, so it's in excellent shape. I'm 60 years old, ride about 50-60 miles per week - mostly around town on generally level streets and paved bikepaths - but wouldn't mind increasing the mileage a bit.

I went to a local bike shop today to inquire about fittings and they offer two kinds - a basic fitting (1-1/2 hours) for $100, and a more thorough (for want of a better word) fitting ( about 4 hours) for $250. The more expensive fitting takes into account factors like your past injuries, flexibility (or lack thereof ), etc.

I'm not the most flexible guy in the world and, although I try to stay in reasonable shape, I tend to strain my lower back when overdoing almost anything. In fact, I'm nursing a muscle strain right now. One side of me is saying "get the more thorough fitting" and perhaps it'll benefit me in avoiding injury, and allow me to extend my rides. But the other side of me is saying "Is it really worth spending $250 for a fitting for a $350 bicycle?".

I'm not a racer, and don't want to be one. I ride purely for the enjoyment and for the exercise. Anyone have an opinion or thoughts on which type of fitting to have done? Or any other thoughts about this?

Thanks!

Bandera

Since your LBS offers a choice in those levels of fit I'd schedule the $100 session, a whole lot can be accomplished by an experienced fitter in 1 1/2 hours. Be sure to negotiate a substantially reduced rate for the big-kahuna fit up front if you feel the need to return within a specified time period and with the same fitter. Keep notes on where you were, what changed and put lots of miles/hours in to adapt.

-Bandera

fietsbob

Since I cannot see you and how you fit on the bike I have no input.

Paying for fitting is a new way to separate Cyclists from their money , with the exception of the consultation fee
if deducted from the cost of the Multi Kilo $ bike for go fast focused riders..

Other than that the trainer stand and talking to rider about how they feel as the pedal, is usually sufficient.

stumpbumper

Im new myself and cannot offer much guidance on the type of fitting you should pursue, but I will chime in saying to go either way, bike fit was something I overlooked for a while and then had done and the difference is pure gold.

Road Fan

I agree with the plusses and minuses and the cautions about bargaining, but really, the fit is for your body, not your bike. Question should be, if there is added benefit in the $250 fit, is that amount worth it for your BODY, not your BIKE?

newbert

Thanks for all the thoughts, everyone.

Road Fan -- You have put the question into proper perspective. Thanks!

ThermionicScott 

+1. If it gets you riding and keeps you riding, it may be well worth it in the long run.

BikeFitPro

You did not mention the name of the shop....might help. But you can ask if they stand behind the fit. For example if you do not feel more comfort and or power do you get a refund? You can read this article to help guide you https://www.bikefit.com/s-13-road-bikes.aspx You can print it and take with you as well and make sure they cover all the details

newbert

Thanks for the link! Very interesting reading. FWIW - the local bike shop is Grey Ghost Bicycles in Glens Falls, NY.

BikeFitPro

I am not familiar with them. Keep us posted on what you do next. Also keep in mind you can call BikeFit anytime even if you are at a shopt to go over a question. Good luck

newbert

Since I'm leaving on a long roadtrip (by car) later this week and won't have an opportunity to ride until I return in October, I will put off this decision until the spring. I'll probably do some riding between when I get back and the start of winter, but winter usually comes early around here, and I'm too casual a rider to ride in the winter. (I ski instead.)

I'm a new member to the forums, so am not familiar with Bikefit. How would I contact them?

Thanks!