The Best Time to Get a Bike Fit - Why Sooner is Always Better

As a bike fitter with over 13 years of experience specializing in triathletes and road cyclists, I've seen first-hand how a proper bike fit can transform a rider's performance, comfort, and longevity on the saddle. Whether you're a weekend warrior chasing personal bests or a competitive athlete gearing up for your next Ironman, getting fitted isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. But when is the best time to schedule that fit? In my opinion, the answer is simple: as early as possible. In this post, I'll dive into the advantages of a pre-fit (getting fitted before you even buy a bike) and the tell-tale signs that your current setup might be holding you back.

The Power of a Pre-Fit: Fit Before You Buy

One of the biggest mistakes I see cyclists make is purchasing a bike first and then trying to tweak the fit afterward. It's like buying shoes that are the wrong size and hoping insoles will fix the blisters. A pre-fit flips the script by starting with you—your body, your riding style, and your goals—before committing to a frame or components. Here's why I always recommend this approach:

• Personalized Bike Selection: During a pre-fit, we work together to find not simply the correct frame size, but also factors such as optimal crank length, cockpit setup (aerobars/handlebars and stem), saddle type, and, in the case of triathletes, the best way for you to carry your nutrition and hydration. I've had clients avoid costly regrets by steering clear of trendy frames that looked great on paper but either didn’t fit, or weren’t fit for purpose.

• Injury Prevention from Day One: Cycling is repetitive, and poor fit amplifies imbalances. A pre-fit identifies issues like leg length discrepancies or hip mobility limitations early, allowing us to recommend bikes with adjustable features or custom builds. In my experience, triathletes who get pre-fitted report fewer overuse injuries, such as IT band syndrome or lower back pain, because their setup supports sustainable training volumes right from the start.

• Cost Savings in the Long Run: Sure, a pre-fit session costs upfront (typically $484 for a pre and post fit solution), but it prevents wasting money on bikes that need endless modifications. I've worked with roadies who've spent thousands on upgrades only to realize the base geometry was off. By fitting first, you buy smarter—perhaps opting for a bike with the right crank length or handlebar width—and minimize future tweaks.

• Enhanced Performance and Enjoyment: A bike that fits like a glove lets you focus on the ride, not the discomfort. Pre-fitted cyclists often see immediate gains in power transfer and endurance. For example, one of my tri clients shaved minutes off her bike split in a half-Ironman after we selected a frame and build that optimized her aero position without compromising her run off the bike.

In short, a pre-fit turns bike shopping from a gamble into a strategic investment. If you're in the market for a new ride, book that session before hitting the showroom.

Signs Your Current Bike Fit Isn't Optimal

Even if you've been riding the same bike for years, bodies change—through training adaptations, aging, or even weight fluctuations—and so should your fit. Ignoring subtle cues can lead to inefficiency, pain, or burnout. Based on thousands of fittings, here are the key red flags that it's time for a professional assessment:

• Persistent Discomfort or Pain: Numb hands, aching knees, or a sore neck after rides? These aren't "normal" cycling woes. For road cyclists, saddle sores or hot spots on the feet often stem from improper saddle height or cleat position. Triathletes might experience shoulder and neck tension from an overly aggressive aero setup. If pain lingers post-ride or worsens over time, your fit is likely the culprit.

• Reduced Power or Efficiency: Feeling like you're working harder for the same speed? Suboptimal fit can cause energy leaks, such as rocking hips (indicating a too-high saddle) or rounded shoulders (from excessive reach). I've fitted athletes who gained 10–20 watts simply by adjusting saddle height.

• Asymmetrical Riding Patterns: Do you favour one side during climbs or notice uneven wear on your shoes? This could signal imbalances like pelvic tilt or scoliosis, which a fit can address with shims or asymmetric adjustments. Triathletes, in particular, benefit from fits that ensure symmetry to prevent compensatory injuries during long efforts.

• Frequent Adjustments or "Hacks": If you're constantly tweaking your saddle, bars, or cleats—or relying on thick gloves and padded shorts to mask issues—it's a sign the core fit needs re-evaluation. Road cyclists often overlook how component swaps (like a new stem) throw off the overall geometry.

• Plateaued Progress or Fatigue: Hitting a training wall despite consistent effort? A poor fit might be sapping your recovery. Clients tell me they feel "refreshed" after a refit, with better sleep and fewer off days, because their body isn't fighting the bike.

If any of these problems sound familiar, don't wait for a major issue. A refit can breathe new life into your current bike, often for less than the cost of new gear.

Wrapping It Up: Don't Delay Your Perfect Fit

The best time to get a bike fit - Yesterday. But if that's not possible, make it today—especially before dropping cash on a new rig. As someone who's fitted everyone from beginners to professionals, I can attest that a great fit isn't about perfection; it's about alignment with your unique needs. It boosts performance, prevents injuries, and reignites the joy of cycling.

Ready to level up? Reach out to me or one of my Bike Fit Academy certified fitters. Ride safe and see you on the road!

Michael's Note: As a fellow cyclist, if you have specific questions about your setup, drop them in the comments below!

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