Bicycle fitting is big business for a lot of shops, and for good reason. Spending many hours on a bike can be pretty unenjoyable if you are stuck in the wrong position. There are already a number of fit systems on the market, but Shimano thinks they can do better. Partnering with BikeFitting.com out of the Netherlands, Shimano brought their product development skills to the table with the Shimano Dynamics Lab to combine with BikeFitting.com’s 25 years of fit experience to create what they see as the ultimate system.

Get fit after the break.

The fit will usually start with the Bikefitting.com static measurement tool on the left which uses various software algorithms to select the proper bike or frame from a database for the best compatibility of fit. Dealers could use this stool as a stand alone piece or as a starting place before the position simulator. Engineered by the Shimano Dynamics Lab, the adjustable position dynamic fit bike integrates typical Shimano precision with industry leading fit technology. The simulator has an integrated 3D pedaling analyzer along with an XY copy tool, precise adjustments and the ability to quickly swap out saddles, and handlebars during a fit.

In order to simplify the fitting process if need be, the fit system offers a Wizard Mode. Yes, Wizards. Utilizing a motion capture harness, wizard mode uses a base flexibility assessment and motion capture while on the simulator to find an optimal fit on the bike in about half the time of a typical dynamic fit, or about 1.5 hours. For the advanced fitters out there, the advanced mode allows them to access individual datasets to fine tune the fit without the use of wizards.

What is a fit without pedal and crank analysis? Using a 3D pedaling analyzer, the system offers left and right pedaling data with real time displays on the GUI (Graphic User Interface) that shows true force vectors at the pedals. Fitters can measure the effective force ratio of the rider by using radial and tangential forces at the pedal, as well as note changes in wattage, cadence, and ANT+ compatible heart rate.

“The effective force ratio is the sum of tangential forces on the crank on the left and right side. With this objective tool, fitters can confidently analyze and identify potential problems or imbalances and improve pedaling effectiveness by modifying the foot-pedal interface including cleat setup, insole function, and even bike fit. The force distribution on the pedal axis is an average of the load distance distributed over the pedal axle through a 360-degree pedal revolution from the pedal center. This information objectively helps improve the foot-pedal interface and substantially increases foot stability and balance on the bike.”

The BikeFitting.com system is a neutral vendor solution that is backed by Shimano, which will be a global program supported locally with regional fit experts and tech help.