Proper fitting service in Manchester, or beyond

[Percy]

Hi all

I built up a road bike last year using an old Peugeot steel frame, to which I've added a new groupset, wheels etc.

I rode it for only about 200 miles before the weather properly turned. I didn't have any major issues with it but it never felt quite 'right' - something in the position that I can't put my finger on. I'd like to get an expert opinion on the setup/fit for me before I start riding it again this year but am not sure where to look - I don't want to just go to an LBS and have them tell me to adjust my saddle height; I'd like a proper analysis of overall position, so I can get the best, most comfortable ride out of it possible. It's possible, I suppose, that the frame/stem I've got simply aren't quite right for me, but I'd like someone who knows what they are talking about to have a look and let me know.

Any recommendations? I am prepared to pay, as long as it's not too much (under £100, say)

Cheers

Percy

 

[jimgow]

Go to Paul Hewitt in Leyland just outside Preston, around £50, but it's the best money you'll ever spend. He can be a grumpy
so and so, but he does it with a jig and proper measurements. http://www.hewittbikefitting.co.uk/fitting/

 

[Garz]

Go to Paul Hewitt in Leyland just outside Preston, around £50, but it's the best money you'll ever spend. He can be a grumpy
so and so, but he does it with a jig and proper measurements. http://www.hewittbikefitting.co.uk/fitting/

I bought my n+1 from Paul and got a free fitting (free if you buy from him). Never get aches and feels comfortable, so recommended from me too!

 

[totallyfixed]

Another plus for Paul, never found him grumpy though and if you want good hand built wheels he's your man.

 

[Globalti]

Another vote for Paul Hewitt. He's very experienced and will size you up with one hard look. He fitted and sold a bike to my climbing pal who has a history of back problems but he hasn't had a moment of pain with the bike, even riding it from Manchester to Leeds and back for, er, Egyptian PT sessions at his girlfriend's flat.

 

[Andrew Br]

Yes, another vote for Paul Hewitt from me as well; I've had two bikes from him.
I'm not so sure about the "grumpy" comment. My thoughts are that he is a little bit shy but when you get to know him, he's a really engaging guy with a good sense of humour. He certainly listens to what you say and takes it onboard. He gives advice but he doesn't seem to have any particular dogma.


.

 

[Globalti]

I wouldn't describe him as grumpy either, just experienced and perhaps a little world-weary in the sense that he's heard all the wise cracks before. He must have fitted thousands of bikes to cyclists.

 

[alecstilleyedye]

peak cyclesport in macclesfield offer that service, iirc. i've no experience of it myself, or know the cost, but macc is just down the road from manchester. i'd ring ahead though, in case i'm speaking through the holes in my brook's saddle…

 

[Percy]

Thought I'd update this - I went to Pedal Precision yesterday, a little independent outfit with a room in the Manchester Velodrome. Did a thorough job, with video analysis, and tweaked my position just right, to get rid of the problems I was having. The guy, Richard, is a sports injury specialist too, and has a good look at your overall posture, movement etc. He explained everything as he was doing it and the reasons for the adjustments. I've yet to ride the bike any distance but I was thoroughly happy with the service and job he did.

http://pedalprecision.com/

I know Hewitts, incidentally - my main bike (a tourer, now used for commuting and training) was built and fitted by him. For this one, a road bike I built up myself, I thought I'd try something different. Time will tell how differently the two bikes ride.