Bicycle Set-Up Dimensions and Cycling Kinematics: A Consensus Statement Using Delphi Methodology.

Bicycle set-up dimensions and cycling kinematic data are important components of bicycle fitting and cyclist testing protocols. However, there are no guidelines on how bicycles should be measured and how kinematic data should be collected to increase the reliability of outcomes. This article proposes a consensus regarding bicycle set-up dimensions and recommendations for collecting cycling-related kinematic data.

Muscle recruitment patterns and saddle pressure indexes with alterations in effective seat tube angle.

Alteration of the effective seat tube angle (ESTA) may affect muscle activation patterns of the lower limbs in cycling. There is conflicting evidence due to inadequate kinematic controls in previous studies. The primary aim of this study was to determine the muscle activity of seven lower limb muscles during alterations of the ESTA by altering the position of both the handlebars and saddle forwards or backwards by 3 ​cm while ensuring controlled kinematics.

A Dynamic Approach to Cycling Biomechanics.

Cycling biomechanics is a complex analysis of the cyclist and the bicycle. It is important to assess the cyclist dynamically because kinematics and muscle patterns are influenced by their type of riding and fatigue and intensity. Intrinsic factors such as anthropometrics and flexibility should guide the initial bicycle configuration.

Anthropometrics, flexibility and training history as determinants for bicycle configuration.

Intrinsic factors such as leg length, arm length, flexibility and training history are factors that may be relevant to the optimisation of the individual bicycle configuration process. Bike fitting methods do not always take all these variables into account, and as yet there have been limited studies examining how these variables can affect the cyclist's position on the bicycle. The main aims of this study were to establish how individual anthropometrics, training history and flexibility may influence cyclists' freely chosen bicycle configuration, and to determine the full-body static flexion angles chosen by cyclists on the bicycle.

Performance variables associated with bicycle configuration and flexibility.

Objectives: Cycling races are often won by the smallest of margins. Research has focused on optimal saddle height for performance, however the relationship between freely chosen bicycle configuration and individual factors such as anthropometrics and flexibility have not yet been investigated adequately. The aim of this study was to determine if an association between power production, bicycle configuration and flexibility exists.

Cycling Biomechanics Optimization-the (R) Evolution of Bicycle Fitting.

Optimal bicycle configuration has been the topic of numerous studies. A majority of these have investigated the optimal saddle height and have used either static kinematics or two-dimensional kinematic measurements. Other joints, such as the hip, shoulder, and elbow joint, have not been investigated to any meaningful extent.

Cycling: joint kinematics and muscle activity during differing intensities.

Full body kinematics and electromyographic (EMG) patterns may alter based on the workloads that are encountered during cycling. Understanding the effect of differing intensities on the cyclist can guide clinicians and bike fitters in improving specific muscle strength and cycling posture to optimise training and racing. We aimed to assess changes in lower limb EMG magnitudes and full body 3D kinematics of 17 well-trained cyclists at three different exercise intensities: 60%, 80% and 90% of maximum heart rate.

The effects of relative cycling intensity on saddle pressure indexes.

Objectives: To compare pressure load and distribution in various saddle zones through a range of workloads in order to provide clinicians and bike fitters with a better understanding of how to optimise saddle positioning.

Design: Experimental, quantitative study.

Methods: Saddle pressure of seventeen male well-trained cyclists was recorded at 60, 80 and 90% of maximal heart rate, based on data collected during a peak power output test.