That's the Pessimist's way of looking at things.
Now the Optimist's way of looking at things... I still have eight weeks left of good indoor or outdoor (character building) training left before my first outdoor ride of the Spring season.
These next eight weeks are very important in other ways as well, especially if you are looking to buy a new bike this Spring.
The Toronto Bike Show is just over a month away running from Mar 3 - 5th 2017 at the Better Living Centre at Exhibition Place in Toronto and can be a great place to buy a bike, with dozens of retailer's competing for your business.
Shopping at the Bike show for a new bike can be either an exhaustive, stressful experience or a relaxing, pleasurable one.
How do we ensure the latter rather than the former
It all starts with knowing exactly what bike manufacturer, model, size, geometry and components are best for your type of riding, current physical condition and body morphology,
If you know this ahead of time then shopping for a new bike becomes FUN!!
Well, if you want to have fun buying a bike this Spring it all starts with a bike fit
By getting a sizing cycle fit done prior to your purchase you will know exactly what you need to know to purchase your bike with confidence and not have to change or upgrade any parts afterwards at big costs.
What is the best size and geometry for your specific build and riding style
Which makes of bikes best suit me
What is the best size and shape of saddle for you
What handlebar size and shape is best for you
What crank length is best
What stem length is ideal
Your negotiating power goes up because you will know exactly what you need and if the bike doesn't come with the size parts you need you may be able to get them exchanged as part of the deal and not have to pay extra to have them changed after the purchase. Bike shops may bend a little more and exchange parts for free in order to get the sale
You will also learn how to read bicycle geometry charts, so that you can be better informed on how to compare different Manufacturers bikes. You can take your time to research different bikes over the next month. the process takes about 1.5 hrs and the cost is $139.00. A cost you will more than recover with the money you will save from your enhanced negotiating position and most importantly not end up with a bike that doesn't fit you properly and ultimately have to replace it at considerable expense.
One brands size 54 is not necessarily the same as another brands size 54 and how does a size XXS or XL fit in the overall picture.
So if a new bike is in the cards for you this Spring year or you are thinking of buying one for a significant other, Have a sizing cycle fit done and spend your hard earned $$ wisely.
After you have bought your new bike, you should consider having a full bike fit done as well. That's where all the real benefits are realized.
