robncircus

So I am getting my first professional fitting tomorrow. I've paid for the fitting already but my question is, do you tip the fitter too (like you would say a barber or tattoo artist)? Or should I assume my cost for the fitting ($165) covers that.

Thanks

Rob

bmxsykes

It depends if they measure your inseam correctly.

Guillotine007

300w

clausen

I wouldn't. You won't know if the fit is good for a few rides. I've had 3 by fit experts trying to solve problems, the two I paid for made it worse, the free one with coach made everything better.

hairnet

Are you going to one of the shops in Santa Monica? just curious

njkayaker

This.

robncircus

Nate Loyal. He works out of Helen's Santa Monica. He came highly recommended from a few friends.

big john

Were you going down Topanga Canyon on Saturday afternoon? I yelled "Hey Rob" at somebody.

Tsuru

Tip if you get a "happy ending".

DScott

I'd love to hear how this works out. Nate has a stellar reputation.

robncircus

I was that's awesome!

khatfull

Huh, when I read the title the first thing that came into my head was "I don't care what they do as long as they don't talk about what the 'naughty hand' is allowed to do."

urbanknight

rotflmao

Torvidicus

It may well be because I'm a Brit but you should only tip if you get something above and beyond what you where expecting.

RacerOne

So you would tip for the correctly measured inseam.

Torvidicus

Only if he warmed the tip, you should never go in cold.

^oZ

$165,-?? That's ridiculous

Bianchigirll 

$165 just to take some measurements? wow do you get a discount if you buy a bike? back in the .... well when I worked in shops years ago and we used the "Fit Kit" it cost $50 (no tip) and you got $50 off a new bike purchased in 6months.

wacomme

No tip.

thesmoothdome

I just had my pro fit yesterday and it took 4 hours of constant work. It was definitely more than a couple of measurements. About 2 hours of the fit consisted of measurements on the floor and while riding the bike on a trainer to look at the bike and how it fit me and the other 2 hours was dedicated to adjusting my pedals and cleats to provide proper hip, knee and foot alignment. Was it worth the money? I guess time will tell. It's pouring out here and doesn't look like it'll break until the weekend. One thing I can already notice is that I don't rub my right heal against the crank anymore, so I know it's improved my position at least a little.

roadiejorge 

$165 is cheap by NYC standards, some are $300 and up. Pro fittings involve more than just taking measurements as the fitter will spend time examining your pedal stroke, position on the bike etc to fine tune everything. Your standard fit usually comes with the purchase of the bike but it's a very basic fit.

DesnaePhoto

Best way I tipped Nate was to refer him! He is an absolute artist with the fitting. Tip him if you want -- it is not expected.

You will have so much fun!!!

Nachoman

Who did you use? And let us know how it works out for you.

jbhowat

I'm guessing that this $165 fit isn't the same as the "fit kit". It better not be, for that price. My dad is buying a new bike and at the same time is optimizing his fit with a $300 fitting that lasts like 3-4 hours and they look at your comfort level, power, etc, etc. I mean, RAGBRAI is his big "event" but I think it would be beneficial so he can't blame his fit when I ride away from him :-) (but seriously, it could be a good idea for him as he's old(er) and not as flexible/durable as someone my age - plus he's got the money for it).

MUZE

I had a fit done a couple of weeks ago and found improved comfort on subsequent rides to the point that it eliminated post ride back discomfort. The fitter used the Retul system and I think it was money well spent.