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​Fitting Studio

​​We fit your Bike to You

​We use computer design software designed to specifically work with the Size Cycle (pictured right) to help you find frame options that match your position. We will review options with you and discuss how the characteristics of each frame and component you are considering match up with your riding style, body and needs.

 

You may also choose to purchase separately a complete CAD based design worksheet that shows in detail one of the following:

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1) The size of any production frame and the dimensions of the fit related components on the bike (crank length, handlebar width, stem length and rise, headset spacers…) on that frame that are needed to set-up the bike to the position established on the Size Cycle.

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2) All the dimensions a custom frame builder needs to build a new custom frame and set-up your bike properly. This also includes the dimensions of the fit related components on the bike (crank length, handlebar width, stem length and rise, headset spacers…).

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The cost of a good fit is paid back instantly. By knowing what you need before you buy a new bike, you will save time and money by not having to go through frustrating and expensive component swaps after the fact or realizing that you bought a frame or part that simply doesn’t work well for you.

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PARcycles offers a variety of levels of bike fitting to address all need from basic setup,minor tweeks to an existing fit to address specific issues all the way up to a  comprehesive evaluation of your biomechanics on the bike.

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The Foundation of a Good Bike Fit

WHY YOU NEED FOOT SUPPORT WHILE CYCLING:                    

A strong and durable bike fit, like a good building, should be built from the foundation up. Aligning the foot and making it a stable structure on the pedal is the cycling equivalent of pouring a good foundation. It is a very important first step towards achieving an efficient, powerful and durable cycling position. You have probably noticed (on yourself or others) that many rider’s knees either track towards the outside or inside at the top of the pedal stroke in a quick snap-like motion – they do not stay in-line. This motion is often caused by a lack of alignment of the lower leg and foot. It compromises power, strength, endurance and even aerodynamics. The good news is that there are devices available that can accommodate for your individual alignment and bring your knee and leg into an aligned, safe, strong and more aerodynamic position.

The human foot and ankle are designed for walking and running, not rigid shoe sports like cycling. Most people’s feet have built in shock absorption in the joints and soft tissue that allows them to absorb the impact of weighted motion. This shock absorption characteristic is reflected as a rolling and collapsing of the foot inwards (pronation) or a rolling of the foot outwards (supination). As pronation or supination occur on a bicycle, your power is absorbed by the foot’s side-to-side motion instead of going directly to the pedal. Furthermore, especially in the case of over-pronation (the most common problem), you also place significant strain on the tendons, ligaments and joints of the entire body as they fight to hold you in alignment without proper support (yes, your feet can effect your shoulders…). Most people over-pronate or supinate (a 1988 study in The Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy showed the number at 95%). Luckily, technology has provided us with supportive devices in the form of custom footbeds and cant wedges.

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HOW TO GET THE BEST SUPPORT:

The foot consists of three separate, but related, zones: the heel, the arch and the forefoot. The ball of the foot acts as a hinge, connecting the arch and heal with the forefoot. This hinge is great for helping us flex and push off during walking and running, but it also allows the foot to twist, which can throw off alignment and strength, while cycling. The goal is to stabilize and align all three elements with the skeletal system.

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Pedal/Cleat Adjustment and Cant Alignment Service

Included in our fittings, but also available as a separate service, A Pedal/Cleat Alignment includes a biomechanical analysis of your feet and legs using tools like the R.A.D. (Rotational Alignment Device) and computerized motion capture analysis of your leg alignment. Your feet and legs will be aligned properly to guarantee that your joints and muscles are powerful and safe while pedaling.

.75 – 1 hour

$100 (price does not include any canting or shim materials)

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Cant Wedges

Cant Wedges fit between the cleat and the shoe and can also help improve alignment and tracking. However, unlike the comprehensive nature of a footbed, cant wedges address forefoot alignment only. We sometimes use cant wedges on their own, but often we use them in conjunction with custom footbeds so that the whole foot is supported, not just the forefoot.

$25 - $60

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Without Support

Feet strain to balance the body on the bike. Misalignment causes inefficient pedal strokes and fatigue in joints and muscles.Neutral, 1.5mm or 3mm
•Optimized biomechanical pedaling path alignment
•Molded heel cup for secure power delivery and efficiency

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​With Support​

Feet are supported and stabilized on the pedal platform. Properly aligned feet, knees and hips create a more efficient stroke with increased power transfer to the pedal

OPENING HOURS

Shop Hours:

Monday  -  Friday

10:00AM - 6:00PM

​​Saturday

11:00AM - 4:00PM

Sunday

By Appointment​

ADDRESS

​PARcycles, Inc.

403 W. Weaver Street
Carrboro, NC.  27510

Info@PARcycles.com or parker@parcycles.com
Tel: 919-525-6135
 

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