Evolve your fit, go faster.
The latest trend in pro cycling is for the rider to “fit”themselves onto a smaller than “recommended” frame and compensate for the reduced reach by using stems much longer than any off the shelf bike comes with from the factory.
A typical response to this trend from forum members is “just because the pros are doing it, doesn’t mean we should”.
My first question was… why are the pros doing this?
At first glance, a couple of the benefits are obvious. The smaller frame weighs less, is stiffer and has a shorter head tube. Ok, so that explains a couple of reasons…
But those aren’t the only reasons why many are riding frames that are “too small”.
Think about the reasons a TT bike is “faster” than a roadbike…
On the surface you can easily tell a TT bike is more aero.The smaller frontal area of the rider is key in the extra speed.
But… there are also biomechanics that add to the speed that aren’t as apparent.
Picture trying to squat a heavy weight.
Standing (weight over your feet) is much easier than trying to squat from a seated position with the weight behind your feet. People’s legs naturally make more power when they are more vertical.
Getting your legs more vertical on a bike (because of the geometry) means one of two things. Either you have to sit more upright (bad for aero) or you have to shift weight distribution towards the front wheel (bad for handling and stability).
Riding a “too small” frame is a racers solution.
It gets the riders hips closer to being over the cranks (smaller frame means more upright seat tube angle) and wisely choosing the right seat post and stem length allows them to push the weight distribution as far forward as they are comfortable with.
Getting the reach right without putting too much weight forward is also countered with very low handle bars in relation to the seat, as this adds some of the reach back without moving weight more forward.
Of course, riding in this position is harder than the standard fit that recreational cyclists are used to, but I assure you it is a more powerful position.
I have been experimenting with different positions all summer.Partially because I want to go faster, but partially because I am interested in the biomechanics.
All this being said… there is no “right” that works for everyone, but in my experience, evolving my fit to closer match the positions of the fastest cyclists has played a significant part in my gains this year.
Last edited by 69chevy; 09-01-16 at 08:14 AM.