The Perfect Fit: Switching Gears

Get into gear with the perfectly customized bicycle, suited to your exact specifications.

The Perfect Fit: Switching Gears

Naples Cyclery uses the Body Geometry FIT system to customize bikes for avid cyclists.

   When many of us first learned to ride a bicycle, fittings were simple. If your feet reached the pedals and your hands could grip the handlebars, off you went. For weekend warriors and avid cyclists looking to improve their ride time or just feel the most comfortable during their excursions, the process is quite different. Since cycling involves your entire body, the number of variables to take into consideration when selecting a bike is significant. Josh Eaton, lead body geometry fitter at Naples Cyclery (239-566-0600), does much of his assessment before his clients ever get on a bike. Using the Body Geometry FIT system, a comprehensive system developed through years of cooperation with Dr. Andy Pruitt, Ed.D., PA of the Boulder Center for Sports Medicine, Eaton performs a strength analysis and flexibility assessment. Body Geometry FIT was designed specifically to help cyclists ride faster, longer, in greater comfort, and with less chance of injury. 

Bianchi by Gucci bicycles blend s two Italian traditions of design and craftsmanship.

   “One thing with the Body Geometry Fitter, and fitting in general, is we don’t want to push the body into a position that it’s not willing to go because it results in pain and potentially injury,” says Eaton.

   Using the findings, along with information from a preliminary interview, Eaton then adjusts the bike to suit the rider’s body, such as finding the right handlebar to adjusting the crank arm based on the length of a client’s leg, as well as knee extension and hip and ankle angles. 

   After a fitting is complete, clients have one year to return at any time for complimentary adjustments, whether it’s based on increased flexibility thanks to more riding or other factors. Detailed information on the bike and any adjustments are stored on the shop’s computer and emailed to the client on an ongoing basis. The costs of a Body Geometry fitting for a road bike is $300, and includes a $100 credit toward the purchase of a new bicycle from Naples Cyclery. 

The Porsche RS bike has a lightweight carbon frame with a 20-speed gear system for high performance.

   For those looking for more luxury in their ride, consider designer offerings such as the Porsche RS Bike (866-603-6004), which offers cyclists a very quiet ride and superior acceleration thanks to Crankbrothers Cobalt 3 wheels and smooth rolling tires. The high-end carbon frame and 20-speed gear system makes for a lightweight bike that remains heavy in drive performance. An ergonomic seat adds to the pampering—all for just under $8,300. Another elegant option for posh pedalers is the Bianchi by Gucci bicycles, designed by Gucci Creative Director Frida Giannini, which represents the blending of two Italian traditions of design and craftsmanship. The signature color stripes and detailing make the Gucci birthright unmistakable, while the design and development by one of the world’s most reputable bicycle manufacturing companies proves the $16,200 price tag delivers more than just a pretty face. With seamless adaptability to both city and countryside riding, the matte black carbon fiber monocoque model, and its hollow frame, is perfect for weekend jaunts. 

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