FIT FIRST
The Key to Selecting the Perfect Bike
Why Getting a Bike Fit Before You buy matters more than you think
Think Fit First
Don’t buy a bike and then fit it—buy a bike that fits from the start. Bike sizing can be inconsistent and misleading. Skip the guesswork and maximize your investment by getting Fit First at VeloConcepts.
Sizes like Small, Medium, or 54cm vary widely across and even within brands, so a single measurement isn’t enough to find the perfect fit. Let us help you choose a bike tailored to your body for the best riding experience.
From the Start
Fit First takes the guesswork out of this process. By starting with a personalized bike fitting, we ensure you’re matched with a bike that supports your body’s unique proportions and biomechanics, optimizing comfort, control, and efficiency.
Instead of trying to make adjustments on a bike that might not suit you, Fit First provides a foundation for a bike that fits naturally—right from the beginning. At Hart’s Cyclery, we’re here to help you ride better, longer, and with more enjoyment.
Our Fit First approach ensures every detail of
your bike is selected for you and your riding style
— before you buy.
Model & Size Selection
Every make, model & size bike has different stack & reach measurements. If you do not know your ideal stack & reach (and ultimately the size bike) you could end up on a bike that does not fit you.
Stem & Bar Selection
Most bikes come with fixed component sizes, like a medium bike with a 100mm stem. While this might work for some, it may not suit you. A fit first approach ensures you know the right bar and stem size before you buy.
Saddle Selection
At VeloConcepts, we use gebioMized pressure mapping to analyze pressure distribution and pelvic stability, ensuring you find the perfect saddle for comfort and performance. You’ll leave knowing exactly which saddle fits your needs.
Why Stack & Reach Matter
Stack and Reach are critical bike geometry measurements because they determine the precise X/Y position of the handlebars, directly affecting overall fit. These dimensions influence how far and high the handlebars sit relative to the bottom bracket, impacting comfort, control, and power transfer while preventing strain on the body. Understanding them helps cyclists select a bike that matches their body proportions, flexibility, and riding style.
A stack and reach chart reveals how much these measurements vary across bikes, even within the same size category. Two “medium” bikes can offer very different riding positions, and the wrong choice may prevent achieving the ideal handlebar position, even with stem or spacer adjustments. This makes it essential to analyze stack and reach to ensure the bike meets the rider’s fit and performance needs.
Some of the brands we work with
Bike Fittings FAQs
What is a bike fit, & why is it important?
A bike fit tailors a bicycle to match your unique body dimensions, flexibility, and riding style, ensuring comfort on both short and long rides, maximizing power, and eliminating aches or pains.
At VeloConcepts, we go beyond the basics with a state-of-the-art fitting lab featuring full-body 3D motion capture, a dynamic fitting bike for real-time adjustments, and advanced saddle pressure mapping. This cutting-edge approach delivers a personalized fit that enhances comfort, performance, and overall riding enjoyment.
What does the "Fit First" approach entail?
“Fit First” means assessing and determining the optimal bike fit for a rider before selecting a bicycle. This approach ensures that the chosen bike matches the rider’s body mechanics, flexibility, and riding objectives, leading to better comfort and performance.
Why should I get a bike fit before purchasing a new bike?
Bike sizing varies among manufacturers; a size medium in one brand may differ from another. Getting a fit first ensures you select the correct size and geometry, preventing discomfort and the need for costly adjustments later
How does a bike fit enhance performance?
A proper fit optimizes your riding position, allowing for more efficient power transfer to the pedals. This efficiency enables you to ride faster and longer with less effort.