The Bike Shop Frequently Asked Questions

The Bike Shop Logo The Bike Shop Logotext

Here are a few answers to questions we get from many of our customers and new bike shoppers.

The Bike Shop Question Graphic What size bike should I get?

ANSWER: For mountain bikes, you typically want a bike that gives you 2-4 inches of clearance between the top tube of the bike and your crotch when straddling the bar. This is a good starting point as many bikes have top tubes and stems proportioned to fit the average rider based on this standover rule of thumb. Since everyone is made differently, your local shop can help you adjust your fit with different length stems and saddle adjustments to dial in your bike fit.

Click on the photo for a complete sizing guide

A proper reach to the handlebars is the key to enjoying comfortable rides. If the bars are too close or too far away, you may experience neck, shoulder, back and hand pain. And, it can cause you to scoot backward or forward on your seat all the time. On most bikes, to change length, you must replace the stem. And stems come in a variety of types and diameters. So you may want to have us check your position and suggest a proper replacement.

To check reach at home, put on your cycling clothes, mount your bike on a trainer and make sure the bike is level. Get on and pedal until you're comfortable with your upper body relaxed. Look ahead as if you were looking down the road. For dropped handlebars, rest your hands on the tops of the brake levers. For flat bars with bar ends, use the regular grip position. Now, have a helper look at you from the side (photo) to gauge where a plumbline dropped from the tip of your nose would fall. Optimally, there should be about an inch between the plumb line and the center of the handlebar.

Notes

If you don't have a helper, photograph/video yourself from the side and check the picture.

If you feel the need to scoot forward on the seat while riding, your stem is probably too long (and vice versa).

Indicators of proper reach include: being able to always comfortably bend the elbows while riding, no hump in the back, a natural neck angle and equal pressure on the hands and seat.

This adjustment requires a helper, too. Place your bike on a level surface next to a wall or post so you can hold yourself upright (or put it on a trainer, but be sure to level the bike). Put on your biking shorts and shoes, get on and pedal backwards until you're sitting in the "sweet spot" on the seat. Move your feet into the position shown in the photo. The forward crankarm and pedal must be level with the ground. The fore/aft seat adjustment is correct when a plumb line (any piece of string with a weight on the end) hanging from the bony protrusion just below your kneecap, bisects the pedal axle.

Notes

As with the other adjustments, this is a safe starting position.
If you're over 6-feet tall, ride long distances, climb a lot and pedal at about 90 rpm, you may prefer to be as much as 1 to 2 cm behind the pedal axles.
If you're less than 6-feet tall, spin at 95 rpm or faster and like to sprint, you'll probably prefer to be directly over the axles.

The Bike Shop Question Graphic What about road bike and BMX bike fit?

ANSWER: A BMX is easy; there is only one standard size BMX bike that you can adjust to fit nearly every rider. The exceptions are very tall riders who may require an extra long frame (also available in many brands) and cruisers which sport 24" wheels and race in a separate class.

Road bikes are a bit more subjective. Basic standover measurements drop down to about 1" clearance and the top tube length becomes more important. In road bike fitting, the question of aerodynamics are of utmost importance. If you aren't going to race, then you need not worry about having a top tube that is long enough to stretch out on. Your position on the bike will be a bit more upright to relieve pressure on your lower back and abs. However, if you do plan to race, you want to have a bike that will allow you to stretch out and get low for greatest efficiency and move back on your saddle for climbing power to the pedals.

The Bike Shop Question Graphic What is the difference in frame materials like cro-moly, carbon fiber, and aluminum?

ANSWER: All three of these offer different feels. The benefits of cro-moly include a really lively feel and springy response to pedal forces. Aluminum is stiff and rigid so it is good for sprinting and climbing, but can be a bit harsh especially on long rides. Carbon fiber is very light and can be made stiff or spongy depending on its application. Talk to your local shop pros or drop us an e-mail for more in-depth talk about frame materials. This is probably the most important question you can ask yourself when considering a new bike purchase, so check out the ride of each before buying. This is our favorite subject and we simply can't do the issue justice in this limited space. So do e-mail us with any specific questions. You will find our shop information on the "contact" page of our web site.

The Bike Shop Question Graphic What is the difference between a bicycle shop bike and a department store bike?

ANSWER: Where do I start? Department store bikes have one advantage over quality bicycles... price. You can get a bike for less than $100. That's where the advantage ends. If your objective is to save money, then a bicycle shop bike is still cheaper. Once you roll your new heavy, poorly adjusted, non-warranted "bike" home, then the real expense begins. The first stop will come when you have to take the monster to the local bike shop to have it adjusted properly. The local shop will not do this for free as they do with the bicycle you buy from them. The next expense will come steadily as you bend and break the various components on the bike. This isn't a prediction, it's a guarantee. Bicycle shops repair department store bikes 10-1 over any other quality bike. The parts are made cheaply and of sub-par materials so they can attract the first time buyer with a low price.

Bike shop bicycles are designed and built with quality materials and components meant to last a lifetime. That is why reputable bike manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty on their bikes. Bicycle shops are required to offer professional assembly and service. Our bikes are not assembled by stock boys, but by real cycling enthusiasts. We only sell bicycles, and so we know them inside and out. If you want a toy, go to Wal-Mart; if you want a bicycle, come see us.

Other differences include:

BIKE SHOP	DEPARTMENT STORE
Free adjustments with new purchase	No service what-so-ever
Quality bike frame materials	Plumber pipe tubing
Professional advice	? ? ? ?
Custom fit and sizing	One size fits all?
Lifetime warranty	No warranty
Stronger and still lighter!	Heavier and still weaker
Group rides and advice on training and fitness	N A D A

For more Frequently Ask Questions, visit www.bike1.com/FAQ

The Bike Shop Back To Top Button Hit Counter