International Bike Fitter Magazine - December 2022 (Issue 5)

INTERNATIONAL

BIKE FITTER I B F I

M A G A Z I N E

DECEMBER 2022 • ISSUE FIVE

STATIC VS DYNAMIC Comparing fitting styles IS CHASING SYMMETRY ALWAYS THE BEST OPTION?

PLUS: IBFI EN ROUTE TO CHARITY STATUS

VELOGIC STUDIO

WHERE ACCURACY MEETS EFFICIENCY

• Accurate, automatic 3D Motion capture PROFESSIONAL BIKE FITTING SYSTEMS

• Overlaid onto 2D video • Capture bike measurements • Gorgeous new report • Integration with power sensors and webcams

CONTACT US FOR A FREE TRIAL W W W . V E L O G I C F I T. C O M

FIND OUT MORE CONTACT@VELOGICFIT.COM

Contents

6

20

16

NEW FACES: MEET THE

THE PUSH FOR

VOLUNTEERS HELPING THE

WHAT’S THE FUSS

INSOLE

IBFI TAKE ITS NEXT STEPS

ABOUT KOPS?

PERFECTION

President’s letter

2

IBFI applies for charity status

23

Static versus Dynamic

8

Tried and tested

24

Striving for symmetry

12

Scientific review

26

New products

19

Getting the best from social media

24

2022 DECEMBER ISSUE 5

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

W

elcome to the latest issue of the

fantastic opportunity to continue my own

IBFI's magazine, International Bike

personal and professional development.

Fitter. After a difficult few years for

many, it feels like fitting seems to be returning to normal in most parts of the world, which is great.

You'll see later in the magazine that we've taken on a couple of great volunteers to help with future issues, which will hopefully prevent

But being busy can sometimes slow down

my hectic work schedule from delaying future

progress on other projects and that's why this

publications. As ever, this magazine is written

issue of our "quarterly" magazine has been

and put together entirely by volunteers, so if you

delayed — a delay that’s been down to me. This

have ideas for articles you’d like to write, or

summer has seen several work trips, another

content you’d like to read, we’d love to hear your

international house move and five weeks in

ideas.

Australia training with Steve Hogg — something I’ve wanted to do for almost a decade, and was a

In this issue you'll be able to read about some

As we announced in the last issue, our transition

of the new faces joining the IBFI ranks to help

over to the new common syllabus is taking shape and

the organisation continue to develop, as well as a

the e-learning platform to help support the delivery of

fresh take on some old topics, including KOPS

the online modules from our recognised providers has

and static anthropometric measurements.

taken a big step forwards. We should see the first courses promoted on there in the coming weeks.

We also look at symmetry in fitting and whether it should always be the goal of a fit

And many of you will be pleased to know that our

session, and our usual segments looking at new

searchable find-a-fitter map will be relaunched in the

products and interesting tech for fitters.

coming weeks too. We know that it is a valuable tool for many fitters, and we’ve heard from many of you

One of the most exciting announcements

who have been disappointed that it disappeared.

though is our recent work to become an official charity. It's something we've considered for a

However, due to the IBFI website being attacked

long time and a huge step in cementing our not-

by malicious software at the start of the year we were

for-profit values into the corporate structure of

forced to rebuild the site from the ground up, which

the IBFI.

turned out to be a bigger job than we first thought.

Charitable status will allow us to accept

The original website was several years old and

donations and ensure that your membership fees

the IBFI has grown rapidly in that time, so the new

are spent on promoting bike fitting and the

site will better serve your needs and ensure

broader industry.

membership services run more smoothly in the future.

Whilst we’ve always operated as a not-for-

We thank you for your on-going patience and

profit, it has been out of choice. By becoming a

support and look forward to these new website

charity this choice becomes a permanent element

systems helping the IBFI run more smoothly in the

of the IBFI and removes any doubt from potential

future.

members about how we’re run and what membership fees are used for. You can read all

Andy Brooke

about the process on page XX and we look

IBFI President

forward to making this long-held dream a reality.

International Bike Fitter is published by the International Bike Fitting Institute (IBFI) Unit 9, Hatton Technology Park, Dark Lane, Warwickshire, CV35 8XB, England Contacts: Andy Brooke (IBFI President): andy@ibfi-certification.com Lee Prescott (IBFI Vice President): lee@ibfi-certification.com Designed and produced by Caroline Stocks Communications • www.carolinestocks.co.uk

NEW FACES We’ve recently welcomed a host of volunteers recently to take on key roles within the IBFI. Here, we introduce the new members of the team:

wealth of experience in both medical practice and traditional academia.

Winston Tam has delivered bike fitting training for some of the biggest providers in the world. If you’re a fitter in Asia, you’ve probably been trained by Winston or know someone that has.

He’s one of the most active fit educators in the world and responsible for more trained fitters in Asia than any other single individual.

Dr Niels Boon comes to bike fitting with a background in both research and lecturing. With a PhD in physiology and biology, and having lectured in exercise physiology, health sciences and nutrition, he brings a unique perspective on the physiology of bike fit and great experience delivering high-level educational content. Niels now works with Shimano as Team Leader Product Development within bikefitting.com.

Niels helps to write and deliver Shimano’s bike fitting courses.

Website and Digital Team After the destruction of our old website at the end of last year, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring everything back online. It couldn’t have come at a worse time, with the new education system and common learning management platform (our new online courses website) launching at exactly the same time. The

Education Committee

person in charge of the new education system

The last issue of the magazine advertised the final

was also the person responsible for the main

three places on the newly-formed Education

website, so it quickly became apparent that we

Committee. With 25 high-quality applicants, it was

needed help. Thankfully, an IT professional from

an incredibly tough decision to reduce the list to

outside the world of bike fitting contacted us to

just three.

offer just that. With their help, we hope to get not

Dr Wendy Holiday (pictured, above) has a degree

just our websites working smoothly, but all other

in Physiotherapy and a PhD in Cycling

digital aspects of the IBFI.

Biomechanics. You may have seen her present at

Martin Herrmann is a keen cyclist and an

conferences or advertise hercourses and

experienced Product Manager. He brings a

workshops with Curtis Cramblett. Wendy brings a

wealth of product management experience and in the few short weeks he’s been involved with the

IBFI has already made great towards improving our efficiency and transparency.

Jorrit van der Plaats is a bike fitter from the Netherlands who currently lives in Madrid, Spain. Having trained and worked as a fitter in London, UK, Jorrit brings high-level fitting knowledge to our digital team as assistant web developer, well as a keen interest in web design.

Chief Diversity Officer One of our main objectives with the education committee was to have female representation.

To ensure we received applications from female fitters, we contacted all of the IBFI’s female members asking them to apply - there were less than 10, which is less than 5% of the IBFI membership. This isn’t representative of the general population, or of the cycling population, which has seen a boom in female cyclists in recent years.

We need to do better at identifying why female cyclists don’t want to become bike fitters and ensure that we create a supportive and friendly environment for the ones that do choose this career. To that end, we recruited for a new role, whose sole focus will be on promoting underrepresented groups within the IBFI and ensuring equality and diversity within our organisation.

Chloe Murdock has a doctorate in Physical Therapy and has been working in bike fitting for over 10 years. She has experience mentoring both other PTs and bike fitters. She originally applied to join the Education Committee but hr passion for helping female fitters jumped off the page and made it clear she was the right person for this role instead.

Magazine staff Many hands make light work and that's why we've taken on two additional volunteers to help

with the publication of International Bike Fitter.

They will help create and manage content, as well as decide on themes for future issues and manage ads and marketing opportunities.

Jon Wild (pictured, above left) is a level 3 bike fitter based in Bristol in the South West of the UK. Jon is an experienced and educated fitter who recently completed his first IronMan triathlon. He has taken over the advertising role and will help with the regular Bike Fit Clinic piece that will return in the next issue.

Jarich Braeckevelt is a bike fitter and data scientist. His research includes studying movement patterns in cycling and he helped to develop training courses and products for major bike fitting brands. He also writes his own blog, which will become a regular feature of future issues of International Bike Fitter.

If you’re reading this and would like to get involved with the IBFI, there are always roles available. We’re also open to suggestions, so if there’s something we’re not doing but you think we should — and you’d like to be the one to help do it — then get in touch: We’re always happy to talk and discuss new ideas.

STATIC VS DYNAMIC Do static measurements have any value in bike fitting, or are dynamic measurements from motion capture systems and video analysis superior?

Niels Heuvelman from Cyclefit.com looks at the myths around anatomical measurements, and explains why it’s still worth making use of the good things about formulas and body segment lengths.

A

sk many bike fitters, and they’ll often say

In general body dimensions can be used for

static measurements don’t add much

comparisons between different riders (the more

value to their fits. Instead, they’ll tell you

riders you have seen and measured, the

that dynamic measurements — generally referring

easier it gets to see differences between riders),

to motion capture systems and video analysis

left versus right comparisons (if you measure

allowing the fitter to measure joint angles — are

body dimensions on both sides of the body this

what’s important.

will give you an idea about differences) and

But while the general idea might be opposed, bike fitting based on formulas and body measurements can still have its place, and it’s

determining a position or recommendation of certain products, such as insoles or saddles.

If you want to do this, you need more than just

worth taking the time to start utilising the good

the body dimensions – you need a formula or

things about them.

algorithm to go from body dimension to positional recommendation (translating leg length to saddle

Body measurements

height). Let’s look at each of these in more detail.

All bike fitters I know use some form of body measurements in their daily routine. What body dimensions are measured and how they are used differs between fitters.

Comparisons between different riders The Cyclefit system gives us access to a huge number of datasets containing body dimensions.

Since Cyclefit usrs have a specific toolkit to

About Cyclefit

measure the body dimensions, all these are measured the same way following a certain

Niels Heuvelman has been in the

protocol.

cycling industry for 30 years. In 2012

Figure 2 (below, left) is based on 67,000 data

he took over CycleFit systems and

points and shows torso length plotted in relation

created his business Cyclefit.com, a

to the leg length. As you can see from the width

company which serves bike fitters

of the data cloud, there is a huge variation in

across Europe with

torso length at a certain leg length.

software, products and education

If we look at a certain point, for example a leg length of 85cm, we see a variation in torso length

and promotes the use of static and dynamic bike fitting method.

from 50 to 70cm. This is a clear sign that measuring one body dimension gives us limited

Cyclefit is a bike fitting program

information and that based on one body

based on body dimensions. It was

dimension it is hard to predict other body

developed around 1990, before data

dimensions accurately.

connections were available like they

Figure 3 (below, right) gives a plot of leg

are now, and in the first years the

length in relation to arm length, and the same

system worked with a Videotex

conclusion can be drawn here too. Due to the

terminal to send the data and

huge variation, it is very hard to create an

receive the report. Later, this

algorithm that helps us determine arm length

changed to a full online system.

based on a certain leg length.

Over 30 years the Cyclefit system has

What does this information tell us? Mainly,

been used in around 500,000 fits,

we can conclude that one-dimensional formulas

creating a huge range of data on

in bike fitting do not work.

body dimensions. Some of these data

Despite this, they are used more than we

have been used for this article.

realise. For example, most bike brands will give

Figure 2: Leg length (cm) vs torso length (cm)

Figure 3: Leg length (cm) vs. arm length (cm)

you a recommended frame size based on either

already know).

body height, or on leg length (inseam height), with inseam length considered to be more accurate.

As shown in the figures, there is a variation

Can we use algorithms at all?

Based on the data above we could conclude that algorithms in a bike fitting are not very

of several centimetres in both arm length and

useful, but before doing so we have to realise

torso length in a certain population with the same

that all these diagrams are based on a one-

leg length. Basically, this tells us that the height

dimensional approach, meaning we only use one

– length, or in other words, stack – reach relation

variable to calculate the other. In bike fitting we

can vary hugely for different persons with the

know that most adjustments depend on multiple

same leg length (and this is only based on

parameters. For example, saddle height (knee

dimensions, it does not take things like flexibility

extension, ankle position) and reach to handlebar

into account).

(pelvic rotation, shoulder angle, elbow angle).

The collected data also show that there is

So, in performing a dynamic bike fit we

hardly any correlation between leg length and

(consciously or unconsciously) take more

shoulder width. In other words, it does not make

parameters into account. When we take more

much sense to mount wider handlebars on larger

parameters into account when using algorithms,

bikes.

this will improve the quality of the outcome.

Figure 4 (below) shows a plot that relates

The algorithms used in the Cyclefit system,

shoulder width to leg length. Again, looking at the

for example, use both leg length as well as foot

variation the conclusion should be that an off-

length (cleat position) to calculate a saddle

the-shelf bike most likely needs modification in

height. This saddle height is then corrected for

order to match the rider (which as a bike fitter we

different crank lengths and pedal stack height.

Figure 4: Leg length (cm) vs. shoulder width (cm)

This altogether leads to a result which is in line with what using normative ranges for angles would give us (knee flexion 30-40 degree, ankle

but the fact that often people expect algorithms to give them the final position.

Algorithms can be great to determine an initial

angle 90-100 degree). Obviously, this is good,

position from here further optimisation can be

but not perfect – exactly as it would be when

done. In this sense, they work the same way as

just using normative ranges and angles.

normative ranges in angle based bike fits.

When we look at the other parts of a bike fit,

The more parameters we have to take into

like saddle setback, reach to the handlebar, and

account, the more difficult it is to find the

drop to the handlebar, we found similar results,

optimum position using algorithms. For example,

but here as well there are quite a few things to

most of the algorithms currently used do not work

consider such as handlebar reach, handlebar

well for modern MTB XC racing since the factor of

drop, lever reach, saddle length, and so on.

off-road bike handling is not taken into consideration.

Conclusions

When you decide to use algorithms in your

Algorithms can be used in bike fitting, but like

bike fitting process, use them the right way;

with all protocols and techniques the more you

meaning understand what these algorithms do,

are aware of limitations the better they work for

and what (minor) changes might be needed. Also,

you. The main limitation for the use of algorithms

remember that algorithms will never be able to

is not so much the quality of the algorithm itself,

beat a well-educated fitter.

NeilsHeuvelman@innova vecycling.com

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FBFAN01072022001FormA5Advertv2PRT.pdf

1

27/08/2022

21:08

STRIVING FOR SYMMETRY UK fitter and physio Scott Cornish explains why chasing symmetry isn’t always the best approach in fitting.

A

symmetry and malalignment is

force production and efficiency, whether it's

omnipresent amongst the human

through the use of wedges, foot beds or a

population, and I’m no exception.

strength and conditioning programme (S&C).

The common notion during my physiotherapy

Current thinking in bike fitting suggests that

studies was that asymmetry and malalignment

pedalling symmetry is the ideal scenario. But the

(compared to the idealised human symmetry)

key to any intervention is that it is constantly

was bad for performance and the root cause of

scrutinised in the longterm, checking for any

many of the symptoms of pain and dysfunction,

possible positive or negative effects.

which was carried across in my early bike fit

For the non-professional cyclist, this

education. ‘Fixing’ it was the focus for improving

constant re-assessment may not always be

performance, even if there were no presenting

possible (location, time, cost), hence an

issues of pain or discomfort.

approach of seeking efficient function within the

With mixed results from the early days of simply following a process of assessing for

acute time frame setting of the fit studio, and a follow-up where possible.

asymmetry and malalignment, which is easy to find in anyone, I altered my approach from trying to ‘fix’ these ‘issues’ to assessing and treating for pain-free, efficient function.

Professional cyclists are constantly looking

LEVELS OF ASYMMETRY There are many levels to human asymmetry and it isn’t always the bad guy it’s made out to be, as we can function perfectly well outside of

for marginal gains, having their biomechanics

the idealised symmetry and it won't necessarily

regularly assessed and re-assessed for maximal

lead to an increased injury risk.

Asymmetry is typically assessed in a coronal, or frontal, plane, comparing left to right

THE PELVIS AND LLDS A stable and level pelvis is a one of the key

in terms of strength, movement, stability, and —

elements when looking at asymmetry on the bike

as alluded to — the common assumption is that

and can often be missed when looking uniquely

asymmetry is detrimental to athletic

at pelvic angle. It can have an affect on the

performance, although this is not wholly

lower kinetic chain and is one of the first aspects

supported in the research (Malony).

I assess on the bike. It can easily be positively

Our organs are not positioned symmetrically and humans often display anthropometric asymmetries, such as different sized ears or

affected by postural cues to level out the posterior superior iliac spines.

With 36 muscles affecting the pelvis, along

feet. We develop unilateral

with the thoracolumbar fascia and the

dominance, becoming left or

anterior and posterior fascial slings,

right biased.

any imbalance within these tissues

Skill dominance is acquired through sporting activities and can be task specific. Adaptive asymmetry in limb strength, stability, left-to-right force production and neuromuscular movement patterns arise between the limbs through

The common assumption is that asymmetry is detrimental to athletic performance, although this isn’t wholly supported in research

can elicit functional asymmetry in the seated, forward flexed position on the bike, when compared to doing an assessment in prone lying. This is the reason why I would always perform a thorough physical assessment prior to observations on the bike - being mindful of any presenting issues, sporting and

unilateral sports such as

medical history, looking for any

racket sports, ball sports or

correlations, or not, with movement

sweep rowing. How we sit at a desk or bias one leg when standing, injury and physical conditions all contribute to asymmetry.

This doesn’t just affect muscular tissue

on the bike, such as a difference in leg length.

Leg length discrepancy (LLD) is a common asymmetry in around 90% of the population, with the average difference not being clinically

either, but also the superficial and deep layers of

significant (Knutson), and individuals developing

fascia, our global connective tissue. It encases

compensatory mechanisms for efficient

muscle, nerve fibres, blood vessels and is a

movement. However, there is no consensus of

major sensory and receptor network within our

what constitutes a clinically significant

bodies. It is a fibroelastic, dynamic and

difference, with suggestions that it is as much as

omnidirectional tissue, important for its role in

>20mm (Michalik) — although this relates more

posture, movement and performance. It’s a key

to walking and running. Personally, as a physio,

component when considering human asymmetry

anything >5mm and I would consider an

as it runs from head to toe and in slings around

intervention, but only once I had established that

the body. Its properties mean that it is highly

there exists an actual difference and not a

affected by injury, surgery, force production and

functional one, which is why both a static and

even factors such as stress.

dynamic assessment should be made.

We may observe a positive acute mechanical effect, but when an individual has adapted over years to a LLD, it is the long-term effect of

strength and conditioning (S&C) exercises and reducing the handlebar reach.

This resulted in an actual difference of

function and efficiency that need to be

<5mm, where the rider functions well without any

considered, as even a minor height adjustment

associated pain/discomfort, I would be cautious

can trigger an acute negative response in

about intervening with LLD shims, simply due to

physiological measures of efficiency

the compensatory mechanisms in place. If I were

(MacDermid).

to see that rider for regular follow ups during the training and racing season, then it would be a

TAKE CARE WHEN SHIMMING

consideration where marginal

FOR LLDS

gains are sought, along with

In prone lying an

some gym based strength work.

insignificant difference can be noted (actual), yet as soon as the rider flexes forward on the bicycle, an imbalance in the pelvic associated tissue often produces a functionally significant LLD and an appropriate intervention should

The 'ideal' alignment may never be achieved… improved, longterm function should be the goal.

WHEN AND HOW TO WEDGE Similarly, I do not follow a standardised process of measuring foot varus and then fitting x amount of wedges for knee alignment. I actually rarely fit varus wedges, instead

be made if this negatively

assessing what is happening

affects the kinetic chain further

further up the kinetic chain from

up, beyond simply adding

the foot and giving targeted

height under the shoe, as this may lead to long

strength and stability exercises, looking for a

term negative effects. This is an important

long term benefit of both muscle activity and

differentiation to establish, as highlighted by a

physiological efficiency as opposed to an acute

rider I saw experiencing left hip pain after

benefit in the fit studio.

>1hour riding following a fit session some

It is all based on the individual, of course,

months prior, where their movement had only

and dependent on how compliant that rider might

been assessed on the bike. A significant LLD

be with an S&C programme. A single wedge may

was identified and corrected for with two 3mm

be fitted alongside the S&C with a view to

leg length shims, suggesting a difference of

eventually removing the wedge. The 'ideal'

>12mm, as a correction is generally only made

alignment may never be achieved and stacking

for half the difference, due to an already

up wedges may be detrimental in the long term,

ingrained compensatory mechanisms of the

hence improved, long-term function should be

body. A pre-fit, off the bike assessment revealed

the goal.

a non significant difference of around 4mm.

In the cases of injury or anatomical

Shims were removed over two sessions and an

variations, wedges may of course be required,

intervention appropriate to the actual nature of

again with the caveat that S&C is part of the

the functional difference was made, with

ongoing process of improving function. If we always try to prop up the asymmetry or what is

considered malalignment, what then happens to

negative connotations especially with more

the muscular system that has adapted to the

recreational riders, focusing on postural

asymmetry or malalignment? That system will

awareness at the pelvis and efficient function.

likely get weaker. Hence an initial or combined approach of an S&C intervention.

For the performance-oriented riders who are more body aware, the approach will be more fine-

With conditions such as scoliosis, again

tuned, but again not having them worry that their

function should be the goal and not simply

left and right knee movements, for example,

following a process to align or ‘fix’ asymmetry.

aren't perfectly matching. I remember once

Understanding how a rider with this conditions

reading about a pro who had an off the bike ankle

functions off the bike and any

injury, and expressed concern that the

surgical interventions they

foot movement was no longer ideally

may have had or ongoing

aligned as it was prior to the injury,

treatment and/or symptoms

yet he could still perform.

is key to getting them efficient and comfortable on the bike.

INJURIES AND HISTORY

Many riders I see don’t know that asymmetry is really quite normal

Injury and its lasting

CONCLUSION We all live with asymmetry and what is considered malalignment.

Symmetry is considered the holy grail of performance by some, but how

effects can often cause

much time do most of us have to

asymmetry in movement and

chase having a symmetrical body?

force production, a reason

There is only so much that can be

why a thorough past medical

done in the brief fit session, and

history should be carried out, to understand what

despite what may be observed mechanically, it's

possible limiting physical factors a rider may

the long term gross efficiency in pedalling that

have. Even wrist and shoulder injuries can affect

required more research.

how a rider holds themselves through the pelvis, through unilateral bracing of the upper limb.

How we approach asymmetries or

Varus wedging and shimming has its place, but it shouldn't be such a common and systematic approach. Positive, long-term functional results

malalignments that we observe in a session can

can be achieved through an S&C programme or

also have psychological effects on the rider. If

simply by improving pelvic posture. Asymmetry

you start listing asymmetries that a rider may not

itself doesn't necessarily lead to injury as there

be aware of, and how it might affect the body

could be numerous contributing factors. The body

and performance in a negative way, then it could

is complex and every rider can react differently to

easily negatively affect the rider's mindset,

an intervention, but the goal should be improving

making them worry. It is well known that

function and/or reducing pain or discomfort if

psychology plays a huge part in performance so

present. Addressing asymmetry may be part of

care should be taken when describing any

that, but it shouldn't be the focus to be 'fixed'.

findings during a physical evaluation.

Many riders I see don’t know that asymmetry is really quite normal and I will avoid making any

scott@physiobikefit.com

What’s the fuss about

KOPS? Knee over pedal spindle has had a lot of bad press over the last few years, but is there still value in the old dog yet? Lee Prescott, fitter and frame builder, thinks so.

K

OPS, or Knee Over Pedal Spindle, as I’m

described in his Medical Guide for Cyclists, and

sure you are well aware, refers to the

Phil Burt advocates its use – but only when

practice of using the relationship between

taken dynamically – in his book, Bike Fit. But

the knee (which part is also up for debate,

recently, KOPS has become something of a

depending on who you refer to) and the pedal

pariah within the industry, with some fitters

axle, in order to determine saddle set back. Or so

suggesting that anyone using the method should

the myth goes.

be avoided.

But where did this come from? It’s pretty hard

Keith Bontrager was one of the first high-

to define a clear source, but Fit Kit Systems from

profile designers to cast aspersions on the use

the 80-90s used it as part of its protocol, and

of static KOPS. His famous white paper

there is mention of it in the CONI Cycling manual

discusses how the use of a static plumb bob

from 1972. It’s likely that it proliferated due to it

measurement is too heavily influenced by gravity

being a simple measurement that anyone could

and becomes irrelevant as soon as the bike is on

take, with an inexpensive plumb bob, to get a

an incline. Part of his reasoning is that it has no

cyclist pretty close to a decent saddle set back. I

biomechanical basis. Now it’s important here to

know that when I first started building frames in

remember that this was written before the advent

1986 it was a pretty standard way of deciding on

of power meters or dynamic motion

seat angle.

capture. Steve Hogg also wrote about how he

But this is all back when bike fitting was all

was unconvinced by the KOPS method in his

just a practice of static measurements and

blog piece on Seat Set-back from 2011, pointing

conversion formula. The KOPS method became so

out that its more important to create a saddle set

endemic within the industry it became the de facto

back that will unweight the torso. Both of these

process. Dr Andy Pruitt uses it in his protocol

arguments are well worth a read and are widely

instances, once the saddle height was also

available on the internet.

optimised for the rider’s level of flexibility and

The thing that has struck me in writing this article is how little actual research has been done

torso angle, the knee lined up.

We then started to follow the same process

on proving what the true efficacy of KOPS is. My

on TT and tri fits as well. Given that the saddle

background is in industrial design and

position on a fast bike is normally on the same

biomechanics/ergonomics, so I have a little

radius as their road bike, but typically rotated

insight into a similar field of investigation from

forwards around the BB, we generally see

another industry.

average torque angles around 10 degrees or

If you have a spare few moments, take a look

more further into the pedal stroke. Following the

into the biomechanics of ascending stairs; you

same process on all successful TT fits (the ones

will doubtless find hundreds if not thousands of

where the bike was capable of being adjusted

commercially and academic funded studies. As a

correctly), we saw the same level of correlation.

fundamental part of everyday life, a lot of time

So, what does that mean? I think we can all

and effort has gone into designing the correct

agree that using a plumb bob isn’t really relevant

depth and amplitude of stairs.

any more, but to totally dismiss the relationship

When you look at studies of muscle utilisation whilst ascending stairs it may look remarkably familiar. Now I know they are not exactly the same, but use of the whole posterior and

“

between the position of the knee and the position of the foot would be cutting our

Should KOPS be used to define saddle set back? Well, in isolation, of course not.”

nose off to spite our face.

Should KOPS be used to define saddle set back? Well, in isolation, of course not. And I

anterior chains are almost

think that is the most salient

identical as that used when

point: Bike fit isn’t a set of

pedalling. So, with all this research where does

simple rules that if you work through you will

that industry consider the ideal place of the knee

come to a perfect position.

when applying downward pressure? Take a guess!

That’s right. The typical description is of one

The biomechanics of the human body is a massively interconnected chain. As we will all have seen in our time fitting, a misalignment at

of the landmarks of the knee to be over the

one end can create a problem at the other. Any

transverse arch of the foot, in the direction of

metric that can help to inform us as to the

force. It’s that last bit that got me thinking. So, for

efficacy of the dynamic position we are working

the last two years, on all fits, we have been

on should be welcomed.

observing where the knee is in relationship to the

Moving forwards, we will definitely add this

cranks. Not as an academic study but just out of

metric to our toolbox. It may not be used all the

a commercial interest in improving our fit

time, but it has become useful alongside some of

protocol.

the other specialised measurements such as

We started measuring it on road bike

measuring wheel weight distribution, pulse

positions by taking the average torque angle of

oximetry, occlusion detachment etc. that we can

the rider’s effort and then on the simultaneous

use as and when they are needed.

video capture, graphing where a perpendicular line to the crank in this position would be. In all

lee@ibfi-certification.com

NEW PRODUCTS

International Bike Fitter Magazine takes a look at some of the newest tools and tech from across the global bike fit industry.

Anemoi Aero Extension System This time trial and triathlon extension system, from Watt Shop, features a modular design with a high level of adjustability. They are manufactured using carbon fibre, SLS 3-D prints and CNC machined aluminium. The design has been well thought through, and is easy to fit and adjust. They can be specified with a variety of fittings to suit any group set.

RRP £1070

Time XPRO 12 Pedals Time pedals are probably the least common clipless system but with the recent acquisition of TIME SPORT by SRAM we can expect this to change.

The XPRO pedals (left) feature a normally open spring mechanism which makes clipping in very easy as you’re not having to overcome the spring tension. The cleats offer a large stable area on the pedal with a stack height of only 13.5 mm, +/ -5° of angular float and 2.5mm of lateral float.

RRP €306

Interested in having your product featured?

Send details to lee@ibfi-certification.com Being featured on this page is not an endorsement by the IBFI

International Bike Fitter catches up with Daniel Schade from gebioMized to discuss their new insoles and the design approach they used.

YOU’VE RECENTLY LAUNCHED GEBIOMIZED

stability in the pedalling movement with almost

PUSH INSOLES. WHAT ARE THEY?

every cyclist. This is why we developed

PUSH is gebioMized’s semi-custom insole for

gebioMized PUSH, a semi-custom programme to

cycling shoes developed by bike fitters. It is

complement our custom-made products. The

available in three different versions and 15 sizes

main basis is our huge database, with foot

to make sure every cyclist can find an insole to

pressure data from many cyclists and triathletes

match their needs.

— a similar approach to the one we used to design our saddles. PUSH gives bike fitters an

SOUNDS COOL, BUT WHY SEMI-CUSTOM

edge, especially in their everyday work. After all,

INSOLES?

there is not only a range of insoles to choose

Sometimes less can be more. Our experience

from on site, based on the measurement data,

from thousands of bike fittings shows that not

but an effect can be measured by the fitter and

every cyclist necessarily needs completely

felt by the athlete immediately. To provide further

custom-made insoles for their cycling shoes. But

support for the selection of the PUSH insole

we’ve also learned that the careful selection of a

needed by the respective cyclist, we also

suitable semi-custom insole provides more

developed an algorithm-based selector tool.

THE PUSH FOR INSOLE PERFECTION prototypes work in real-life conditions, both in the laboratory and outdoors. Based on the results, Left: The gebioMized team discussing pressure and relief zones of the new insole Bottom right: The di erent layers being laid out before assembly.

we revised the models, made new prototypes, and tested them again until we were happy with the objective pressure data and the test riders with how they subjectively felt in their shoes. For the grand development finale, we compared different materials to find the right balance of stability and pressure reduction.

This was the birth of the PUSH insole concept; a

HOW DID YOU DEVELOP THEM?

concept that perfectly complements the

It took two years to turn the first idea into the

knowledge and skill of a bike fitter. After all,

final product. Our development team started by evaluating more than 10,000 data sets gathered in the production process of our custom insoles.

This database includes measurements from amateur athletes, as well as from winners of major cycling and triathlon races around the world. As a result, we defined different types of stress and identified the respective support elements. Then we created prototypes using CAD, built them in-house and started running extensive tests. We also used our foot pressure

ff

measurement system to check how our

biomechanical know-how is indispensable for choosing the right PUSH model. On a side note, we are proud that the whole development and production process is made in Germany, so we feel pretty robust in terms of supply chains here.

SO WHAT INSOLES ARE AVAILABLE? The core of PUSH consists of three insole versions offering different support categories, e.g., more stability in the shoe for feet with a flat or high arch. The different layers of every insole provide more comfort by reducing pressure peaks, as well as more stability due to a harder mid layer. Pressure reduction areas provide stress relief for the big toe and metatarsal 1 and 5. As an option, bike fitters may customise the PUSH insole quickly and without special accessories by thermoforming. During development, we were even surprised by the extent the insoles improved the pressure distribution in the shoe. Last but not least, all PUSH insoles are available separately for the left and right foot, so that an individual combination for each customer is possible if required.

For more information visit: https://gebiomized.de/en/products/semicustom-einlagen/

IBFI on the path to charity status

T

he IBFI has always been a not-for-profit

The current legal entity behind the IBFI, The

and always will be. But until now it was

Bike Fitting Company Ltd, will then be gifted to

out of choice.

the CIO, making it a wholly owned subsidiary.

Becoming a charity was always the goal, but in

With a small restructure, the entire running of

the formative years of the IBFI the extra admin

the IBFI will then fall under the umbrella of the

required to run a charity, and the costs involved in

registered charity.

the application process, made it incredibly difficult.

With the incredible growth we’ve achieved over

A little IBFI history for you – the UK (where the IBFI was formed) restricts the use of

the last few years, we’re now in a much stronger

certain terminology in business names,

position to take that next step. Running as a not-

meaning it was impossible to use the term

for-profit while being very careful with our spending

‘Institute’ when we first incorporated. The

has allowed us to build up the necessary funds to

solution was to form a limited company with a

pay for the application process. And the expansion

different name and then establish the IBFI as a

of our legion of volunteers has spread the workload

trading name or ‘trading as’ (known in the USA

between more people, allowing us to better absorb

as ‘doing business as’ or DBA). This restriction

the additional admin required of a registered

is eased when applying for charitable status so

charity.

we’re hoping the new charity will carry the

This month the IBFI officially engaged legal representation to begin the process of becoming a registered charity in the UK. This is a huge step

name everyone knows us by – the International Bike Fitting Institute.

So will this new charitable status mean US

forwards in formalising our objectives and

residents will be able to donate to the IBFI

enshrining our not-for-profit ethos into the

charity and claim the donation back against

corporate structure of the organisation. Becoming a

their tax bill? In all honesty, we’re not sure yet.

charity will allow the IBFI to accept donations and

The process of donating to a UK charity from

significantly reduce our tax burden, meaning we

the US became more complicated in recent

can spend more of that money on promoting bike

years but we’re exploring our options to ensure

fitting and bike fitters.

this is a possibility, including the formation of a

The process is expected to take around four months and will involve the creation of an entirely new Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).

US arm of the charitable organisation. We’ll keep you updated as things develop.

Ryden Smart Measurement tool New bike fit products come to the market all the time, but how do you know which ones are worth buying? UK fitter Lee Prescott shares his thoughts on the Ryden Smart Measurement and setup tool after trying it out in his fit studio.

I

must admit that when I first saw this tool

different crank sets. The web app that goes

at the Bespoked show last year, my initial

along with the hardware has also seen some

thoughts were that it was a gimmick. Upon

major updates to make it more accurate and

chatting to Darren Ryden though, it became apparent that a lot of thought had actually gone into the design.

Now Darren is not a bike fitter, and as

more useful.

Obviously, the build quality is not the same as something like the Purely Custom XY tool, but it’s not meant to be. With a price

such did not have experience of measuring

tag of under £50, this measurement device is

many different bikes. After several

squarely aimed at amateur cyclists and for

conversations about the XY coordinate

occasional use.

system of measuring a position, Darren was able to feed this new knowledge into the latest design version.

This latest version includes multiple fixtures to connect the tool to the majority of

SIMPLE TO USE The web app is simple to use and provides a host of information, by utilising the inclinometer of the average smart phone

SIMPLE TO USE: The web app that accompanies the hardware (above) has seen major updates to make the tool (right) more accurate and useful

to determine the angle of the ruler. Then by inputting the measurement taken on the ruler of the saddle or bar height it’s a simple bit of trigonometry used in the code to calculate

It's something to say that I have chosen

the X & Y. All of these measurements can

to grab this tool a few times over the XY

then be saved into a profile that stores your

stick or laser level we normally use and is

set up.

just as quick and easy to create an accurate measurement. If anything its actually more

REPLICABLE MEASUREMENTS The saddle width jaws come as standard

replicable than both other methods.

All in all, I believe this is a great tool for

at 70mm but can be adjusted to suit any

any fitter to recommend to their clients as a

width you are using. The bar gauge now also

simple way of them replicating a fit onto their

includes a semi-circular cut out to locate the

bikes or home trainers.

fixture on the centre bulge on a bar, and the

RRP: £49 +P&P

calculation gives you a reading to the centre

https://shop.ryden.bike

of the stem clamp.

Opinions expressed in these reviews are personal and are not endorsements by the IBFI. Products in this article were purchased by the reviewer. If you are a bike fitter and have been using a new product you’d like to review, or if you are a company and you’d like to submit a product for a long-term review by qualified bike fitters, email lee@ibfi-certification.com

How do hip and ankle kinematics predict knee joint load?

French fitter and researcher Geoffrey Millour looks at a recent paper on knee joint loads as part of the regular literature review feature from the IBFI’s Scientific Sub-Committee.

cycling experiences were recruited for this study. First, a fit-bike was set for each participant by positioning saddle height at 109% of inseam length with an effective seat Introduction: The primary purpose of bike-fitting

tube angle of 73.7°. The handlebar position was

is to prevent overuse injuries by adjusting the foot,

adjusted according to the individual's

saddle and handlebar interfaces. The saddle

perception of comfort. All cyclists used the

position and the crank arm length influences the

same saddle (Selle Royal, Seta, 143 mm width),

lower limb joint kinematics, which can affect knee

crank arm of 172.5 mm and flat pedals with

joint reaction forces. The authors assume that a

Velcro straps. Then, they used this initial

high knee flexion at bottom dead centre, which is

position to perform an incremental cycling

typical of low saddle height, could increase

protocol (YMCA Sub-Maximal Cycle Ergometer

patellofemoral reaction forces. In addition, it has

Test) in order to determine the experimental

been shown that a posterior saddle position

exercise intensity. The pedalling cadence and

(compared to traditional recommendations)

power output of the last stage (when the

increases tibiofemoral compression forces (Menard

participants achieved a heart rate of 70–75% of

et al., 2018). Therefore, the aim of this study was

age-predicted maximum) were used during the

to assess the effect of ankle, knee, and hip

following protocol. The experimental protocol

kinematics on patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joint

consisted to ride in 18 positions during 3 min:

reaction forces and identify if sex, horizontal

three vertical saddle positions (initial and ± 5%),

saddle position, or crank arm length also play a

three horizontal saddle positions (initial and ±

role in these reaction forces during submaximal

10%) and two crank arm lengths (initial, 170 mm

pedalling.

and 175 mm), in a random order. The handlebars were adjusted to maintain the same

Methods: Forty healthy participants (17 females

position relative to the saddle. A motion capture

and 23 males of 28.6 ± 7.2 years) with different

system and instrumented pedals measured joint

*Hip and ankle kinematics are the most important predictors of knee joint loading during bicycling, Gatti, A. A., Keir, P. J., Noseworthy, M. D., Beauchamp, M. K., & Maly, M. R. (2021), published in Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 24(1), 98-104.

kinematics and pedal forces, respectively. A

important for predicting knee forces than

musculoskeletal model was made in OpenSim to

minimum knee flexion, which is commonly used

calculate tibiofemoral shear force, tibiofemoral

in bike-fitting to adjust saddle height. It appears

compression force and patellofemoral force

therefore essential to study the different joint

during the last minute of each bout. Mixed-

angles both during flexion and extension during

effects models were used to assess the effects

bike-fitting to avoid overuse injuries. The

of joint kinematics of both lower limbs on the

authors' conclusion that horizontal saddle

joint reaction forces.

position and crank length are not related to knee reaction forces should be taken with caution.

Results: Results show that both flexion and

Indeed, these settings affect the kinematics,

extension of the hip, knee and ankle affect knee

and, as they point out, the inclusion of

joint reaction forces. The resultant patellofemoral

kinematics in the models made crank arm length

joint reaction force was most sensitive to joint

and horizontal position variables unimportant.

kinematics, while the tibiofemoral shear force

Additionally, the most practical way to limit joint

was least sensitive. All reaction forces were least

forces by limiting both flexion and extension is

sensitive to changes in minimum knee flexion

to use shorter cranks. It is from this postulate

(i.e., when the lower limb was extended). The

that I studied the use of asymmetrical cranks as

best predictors of tibiofemoral compression force were the minimum hip flexion and maximum ankle dorsiflexion.

For the tibiofemoral shear force and patellofemoral joint reaction, minimum hip flexion,

T

an alternative to spacers placed

he most practical way to limit joint forces by limiting both flexion and extension is to use shorter cranks

maximum ankle dorsiflexion,

between the shoe and the cleat for cyclists presenting an asymmetry of the lower limbs (Millour et al., 2020). This adaptation, which consists of reducing both extension and flexion of the short lower limb,

minimum knee flexion, and the interaction of

had shown encouraging results. The influence of

minimum knee flexion and minimum hip flexion

sex seems irrelevant, but as the authors point

were included in the best predictive model. The

out once again, it is exercise intensity that can

inclusion of sex improved fit of all models, but it

significantly affect knee reaction forces.

could be attributed by the difference in power

Therefore, the more you pedal at high intensity,

output between males and females (140.4 ± 37.7

the greater the risk of developing pathologies.

W vs. 86.4 ± 30.6 W). The crank arm length and

The use of flat pedals and of an identical saddle

horizontal saddle position were not related to

for all cyclists, without adaptation time, can be

knee joint reaction forces.

considered as the main limitations of this study.

In addition, it would have been interesting to

Discussion: This study shows the importance of

take into account the flexibility of cyclists which

optimising hip, knee and ankle kinematics during

can have an impact on the tolerable joint flexion

flexion and extension in order to minimise knee

and extension during pedalling. Despite these

reaction forces that can be responsible for

limitations, this study presents interesting and

overuse injuries. Surprisingly, the minimum hip

original results with practical applications for

flexion and ankle dorsiflexion were most

bike-fitting professionals.

KEEP THINGS INTERESTING

INTERACT WITH

USE PHOTOS

FOLLOWERS There are no hard and fast rules on how often you should post, but only post things you think will interest your followers. Overshare, and you risk people zoning out and ignoring what you put out there.

SHOW YOUR PERSONALITY Yes, you want to be professional, but that doesn’t mean you should be afraid to show your human side. Injecting some opinions or humour alongside your more serious business posts can help you connect with followers.

KEEP VIDEOS SHORT AND SWEET Videos are great for social media, but to keep people engaged try to keep them short and concise — think three or four stories on Instagram or Facebook.

There’s a great bike t community online, so get to know them by responding to their stories, commenting on posts, and engaging in discussions.

Engaging will also help more people nd your account.

10

WAYS To up your social media game Social media can be a great tool for promoting you and your business, connecting with other fitters and cyclists, and learning more about bike fitting. Here, we share our top tips for getting the best out of your social media efforts

Pictures tell a thousand words, but they also spice up your posts and make people more likely to engage with them. Whether it’s a snap of your morning ride, your t studio, or of a new tool you’re using, keep it well-lit and in focus, and you’ll see the likes roll in.

USE CAPTIONS If you record a video or story, use the auto captions or type out what you said. Most people actually watch videos without any sound, so they could be missing what you say without subtitles.

Adding text also makes your videos inclusive.

MIX EDUCATION WITH ENTERTAINMENT

People use social media for entertainment as well as education, so try to offer a mix of content, and don’t feel like you always need to have something important or serious to say.

Yes, social media is a great way to share your views and ideas, but it can also be a great learning tool. Rather than just thinking about your next post, take the time to see what else is going on in your network — you never know what you could learn.

fi

Hashtags are a great tool for helping you reach a wider audience and nd people who posts similar content to you.

Including relevant hashtags on your posts mean people will be able to nd your content more easily — even if they don’t already follow you.

fi

Sadly, trolls are part and parcel of social media, but that doesn’t mean you have to listen to them.

Deleting comments and blocking any troublesome followers leaves you free to put your energy into the people who genuinely want to hear from you.

fi

BE PREPARED TO LISTEN

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USE HASHTAGS

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IGNORE NEGATIVITY

APPLICATIONS FOR THE IBFI TRAVEL GRANT ARE OPEN Early career fitter? Interested in attending an international conference or training event in 2023?

Apply for the IBFI Travel Grant for your chance to win up to £500 to cover your costs.

- GRANT WORTH UP TO £500/€580/$610 - AVAILABLE TO LEVEL 1 AND 2 FITTERS - DEADLINE 31 DECEMBER

To apply, contact andy@ibfi-certification.com for an application form.

More details available on request

GET IN LANE WITH THE IBFI

IBFI members gain global recognition, have access to a host of discounts, can participate in our unique mentoring programme, and apply for the annual travel grant, all for just £10 per month.

Find out more at I B F I - C E R T I F I C A T I O N . C O M