Most bike fitting specialists fit riders in a static position.  This is because the traditional tools of the trade - tape measures and plumb bobs - do not allow accurate measurements while the rider is pedaling.  Using motion capture technology, Retül records the rider's positions in motion, creating the most realistic picture of the rider's actual pedal strokes and body positions when out on the road and trails. An accurate measurement is cataloged at each position, as the rider pedals under different loads, which makes the Retül system more accurate than old, static approach to bike fitting. 

Measurements made by traditional tools have one thing in common.  They are subject to human error and therefore can be devastatingly inaccurate.  Even slight inaccuracies can drastically change the rider's feel after a ride.  The Retül system is accurate to within less than a millimeter, creating true objective data which can be utilized by the fitter for the perfect biomechanical fit. 

Fit data collected in a traditional 2D plane (i.e. video-based systems) is fairly limited because the fitter can only look at one view at a time, and those views stand as independent reference points.  In order to make the best fit recommendations, the fitter must realize that the front and side views are actually interdependent reference points.  In other words, the front and side views must be viewed simultaneously in three dimensions in order to see how all the applicable movements of the body are working together.  Retül uses 3D motion sensor technology to simultaneously gather data on multiple angles of the rider. 

What happens during a Retül bike fit?  The fitter does an initial physical assessment of the rider and can then address the rider's concerns about performance, pain, or any other issues the rider hopes to alleviate during the bike fit.  Once this is completed, the Retül process begins.  LED markers are strategically placed on eight anatomical points of the rider: the wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, heel, and toe.  As the rider pedals, Retül's sensor bar gathers real-time, 3D data of the rider's pedal strokes and movements.  Retül's rotating platform allows the fitter to collect data from both sides of the rider without the rider leaving the bike.  The rider's data is compiled into a reader-friendly report for analysis by the fitter.  The fitter can then assess the rider's position and make necessary adjustments. 

The Zin - Retül's hand held digitizer - allows the fitter to digitally measure the rider's bike - at 13-15 fixed points, contours, curves - providing a complete digital map of the bike.  The fit information is saved and stored on the fitter's computer.  The data includes the rider's personal profile, specific data and measurements from the fit, bike measurements, and the rider's final fit position.  The fitter will be able to access and print these records for comparison and distribution and track historical fit data for the client.

Velo Studio’s one-on-one private fittings are performed by Coach Rick Babington, an outstanding fitter who has 10 years invested in bike fitment and has been trained by some of the best bike fitters in the USA.  Coach Rick is currently assistant coach for the US ParaCycling National Team and is a Cat 1-Elite USA Cycling Certified Coach with 30 years coaching experience in endurance sports.  In addition to all types of cycling, Coach Rick has a background in speed skating, hockey, and running.