Fitting question

[JD Reich]

Good afternoon,

Taking a persons measurements and then designing a frame from these has got me quite confused. I've done a lot of online research, read through Paterek's info and have played with the fit advisor in bikecad pro.

There seem to be a variety of different approaches to how to properly design a frame based on an individuals body type, flexibility, riding style, etc...

Perhaps I am overly complicating this, and need to just stick to taking measurements that translate to stack and reach and then tweak based on other variables such as flexibility, riding style, etc?

I'd greatly appreciate it if someone could shed some light on which body measurements I should be taking, and how I can then calculate and apply these to frame dimensions. If there is an online or print resource you would recommend to save time in replying, or if I missed a helpful thread here on velocipede that would help, I would appreciate that as well!

Thanks so much!
JD

[Too Tall]

This a great topic for discussion. As far as I'm concerned, there is no substitute for experience. What is your background in riding/racing or whatever if I may inquire?

A gent in PA taught me the game. He insisted that I toss out ever guide or "system" and trust my eyes and ears.

Frame design is out of my pay grade. I can fake it but mot make it.

I'll beg the jaded brethren here to hold your water if you have nothing to add. This question is essentially important for what we represent.

[JD Reich]

Thanks for the reply Josh

I have been riding most of my life, however much more seriously in terms of miles put on the road over the last 5 years. I started racing a few years ago, and mainly race crits....In comparison to many of you, I would say that I am not an experienced rider or racer by any stretch both in terms of ability and duration.

I hope this gets to what you were asking?

I am hoping to get some information so that I can find a starting point in designing a frame...for example, if a persons torso is "x" long, arms from shoulder to hands is "y", how can I translate these into a general frame dimension which then could be tweaked based on experience or feel as you mentioned.

[JD Reich]

Here are two bikes I built and painted for myself, utilize the bikecad pro fit advisor as a starting point and then tweaking based on my flexibility and what I am using them for...I would really like to design them more traditionally without using the fit advisor

IMG_7760.jpg

IMG_0321.jpg

[Too Tall]

The reason you are not getting many replies is that this topic can be radioactive.

I'll broach the topic with I begin every fitting with a long talk about history and expectations than move on to saddle height.

Next.....

[progetto]

They have different length stems, seatpost offsets etc for adjusting fit. There are tried and trued ballpark measurements, the rest is just background noise.

[JD Reich]

I appreciate that Josh...yes, in hindsight I can see how this could be such a topic. I certainly didn't intend my question to lead to radioactivity, so to speak, but the best laid intentions.....

When I used to build old triumph motorcycles and old choppers, perhaps this is similar to what type of oil is best.

Thanks as well Bill...I'm trying to develop the proper set of measurements to get to some of those ballparks.....I'd like to try my best to avoid "fixing" an incorrect reach, for example, by compensating with a stem that may end up making steering more sluggish or quick.

Thanks again for taking the time to respond; I appreciate it
JD