The Shop Index · Service File
Bike fitting, honestly priced
Who needs one Anyone with pain, numbness or hot spots that survive a week of riding; anyone setting up a new road, gravel or tri position; anyone whose mileage is climbing past the point where small errors become injuries. If none of that is you, a basic setup at purchase — saddle height, setback, reach — is honestly enough, and a good shop will tell you so instead of selling the full session.
The tiers, and what separates them
| Tier | Fair band (US) | What happens | Right for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic setup | $75–$150 | 45–60 min: saddle height & setback, cleats, cockpit; tape-measure & plumb-line class tools | New bike, first position, general comfort |
| Comprehensive fit | $200–$400 | 90 min–3 hrs: interview & flexibility screen, video or motion capture, cleat & foot work, written report, follow-up window | Pain or numbness, high mileage, performance goals |
| Fit-first (before purchase) | $250–$450 | Fit on an adjustable jig; output is geometry targets for buying the right frame & size | Buying once, buying right — especially mail-order frames |
Five questions that sort fitters from sales floors
“What training stands behind the session?”
Named systems and institutes (Retül, GURU, IBFI pathways, physical-therapy backgrounds) are all legitimate answers. “Twenty years of experience” alone is a weaker one for a $300 session.
“Will you fit this bike before recommending parts?”
Position first, purchases second. A fit that cannot end without a basket of components was a sales appointment wearing a lab coat.
“Do I get my numbers, in writing?”
Saddle height, setback, reach, drop, cleat position — yours, on paper, to carry to any future bike or fitter.
“What's the follow-up?”
Bodies adapt. A 60–90 day adjustment window included in the fee is the professional norm at the comprehensive tier.
“When would you send me to a clinician instead?”
Persistent numbness, saddle sores that won't heal, one-sided pain: a good fitter names the line where fitting ends and medicine begins.
Choose the fitter through the Shop-Fit Finder (need: bike fitting), and check the session quote against the ledger before booking.