Fit Tip of the Month - Aerobar stack

Not all aerobars are created equal. I am not so concerned about the quality, maintenance and aerodynamics of bar A versus bar B, rather I am talking about the stack of the bar.

Just because you may know your fit coordinates and you know what brand of bike may fit best, your fit is not complete. Aerobars come with a variety of stack. When I say stack, I am referring to the vertical distance between mid-point of where the stem clamps the pursuit bar to the top of the pads. This number can easily range between 2cm and 7cm. This 5cm delta of stack can have huge ramifications to your position if you are not diligent.

For example, if you are riding the ever popular FSA VisionTech aerobars, you are typically looking at 3-4cm of stack, depending on which set of armrest pad spacers you use. Conversely, the Profile Design Cobra will have you around 6cm as will the Bontrager Aerolite. The 3T Brezza will bring you in at 5cm. Easton Attack...about 2cm. Zipp...about 4cm. Syntace...about 7cm.

Whichever bar you choose, just make sure it works for your position. This is important both when exercising a new fit as well as when upgrading your cockpit. Your FIST-certified fitter should be able to help you out.

Stay warm,

-Tim

Fit Tip of the Month - Lower does not have to hurt

A lower, more aggressive position, does not mean greater discomfort in the saddle area. Remember as you go lower, you'll be moving a larger percentage of your body weight to the aerobars and this will actually remove some weight from the saddle. Most importantly though, you need to be on a saddle that works for you.

Great position + bad saddle = Poor Fit

All the best,

-Tim