Originally Posted by
Doug Fattic
I don't use body measurements much in designing my frames. And while I think BikeCad is an excellent product, I don't use it much either. I base my designs off of a fitting that establishes the seat, handlebar, pedal relationship. What I discovered early in my career is that 2 bodies with similar measurements can sit quite differently on a bicycle. My fixture (that resembles a mechanical drawing) can then hold the chosen saddle/seatpost and stem in that same position and I can slide around the pieces that represent the frame tubes to match up with those components.
There are 3 factors in establishing a fit. Biomechanical efficiency, aerodynamics and comfort. These factors can be in tension with each other and choices have to be made which ones are most important. Now days I make (or much more likely my students make) steel frames that prioritize comfort. If one wants to go as fast as possible then are more likely to buy a carbon frame. I can still ride the Masi bike Faliero had made for me in 1972 but I wouldn't want to. I prefer sitting more upright now and my design decisions reflects that choice.
There are 2 basic approaches to frame design. Most studies in positioning and design involve improving performance in competitive conditions. Just for convenience I'll call it the Italian method. The other is a more utilitarian approach and for our purposes I'll call it the French method. Whether it is for recreation or function, this approach emphasizes comfort over speed. This method can be preferred by recreational, urban and older riders. This probably results in a lower BB height, a bigger frame and shallower angles.
If you are in Iowa, your framebuilding journey probably involved learning some things from my buddy Jeff Bock. I meet him on Ragbrai in 1978. Over the years we would often ride a day chatting about building and painting and life.
Here is a picture of my SS laser cut and etched fixture that helps me convert a rider's bicycle position into a frame design. Its accessories and markings aid in creating the design. I've had it refined over many years.