So I've been a bike fitter for a few months now and have some time in the fit studio under my belt. I have to say, I'm enjoying it even more than I thought I would. I've learned a lot, and still have a lot to learn. I have dealt with a variety of people that have helped me to learn the variety of people riding, their riding styles and even their reasons for riding. From the most extreme casual riders to those looking to take their racing to the next level. It's been a humbling experience. I'm going to share some of it with you below.
One of the first things I have noticed since I started has been the lack of flexibility in these athletes. It's incredible, and people know it. I have yet to fit someone who has greater flexibility than I do, and I don't hold myself in high regard when it comes to it. I thought I was average, but I am starting to learn otherwise.
Another thing I'm learning is how more people are leaning towards a more comfort setup rather than aggressive or aerodynamic setup. Even my triathletes are looking for a comfort ride rather than extreme aero. Which for me, makes my job easier. If I were to flip it around, I'd be having some harder discussions with my clients. What I mean by that is that fitting someone on a bike is really about knowing their limitations and adhering to them. Each person I have fit so far has had the ability to go more aggressive in relation to their flexibility and range of motion, but when I put them there, they just don't feel comfortable. Something I can completely understand.
Something cool about being a fitter that I am starting to really enjoy is getting a better personal appreciation for my customers at the shop. Fitting someone on a bike is pretty personal. We're in a closed room for over an hour in close quarters, one on one. We talk about their issues and they start to open up about their difficulties and wher they came from. I really enjoy this part of my job. These are things I would otherwise miss out on if I were just selling bikes. I'm able to relate my own issues to theirs and insert my professional advice from my own on the bike experience.
My favorite part about being a bike fitter so far, however, is that moment when I make that 1cm adjustment on either a saddle or bar and you can just see the person I'm fitting eyes light up. Like, "yea, that did it, I'm committed". It's a very cool feeling to get somebody comfortable on a bike. Especially people who were initially afraid of the narrow tires and saddles. The rewards go beyond getting a cut of the fee, it's all about the end product, which is a satisfied customer who writes you a week or so later saying how much they are enjoying their new bike and how comfortable it is.
-Dave
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