What is the best way to test the comfort and fit of a Giant Propel Advanced 2?

[Scooby Snax]

Is the notion that a bike fitter is necessary to ensure a proper fit on a Giant Propel Advanced 2 a total scam? It seems like a lot of bike shops are pushing these fittings as a way to upsell customers, but are they really worth the cost? Cant you just eyeball it and make some adjustments yourself? I mean, how hard can it be to throw a leg over the bike and see if it feels comfy? And whats with all the fancy software and gadgets they use? Are they really providing any value or just trying to impress with techno-jargon?

If youre going to drop thousands of dollars on a high-end road bike like the Propel Advanced 2, shouldnt you be able to figure out how to adjust the saddle height and bar position yourself? Do you really need some expert to tell you how to set up your bike? And what about all the riders who have been doing just fine without these fancy fittings for years? Are they just lucky or is this whole bike fitting thing a bunch of hooey?

Im not saying that getting a proper fit isnt important, but it seems like the whole industry has gotten a bit out of hand. So, whats the real deal? Are bike fittings a must-have or a total waste of money? Are there any other ways to test the comfort and fit of a Giant Propel Advanced 2 that dont involve breaking the bank?

 

[andydennis]

Well, well, well, look who's questioning the almighty bike fitter. Let me tell you something, pal, a bike fit is like the soulmate of cycling - you'll know it when you find it, and it sure as heck ain't something you can just "eyeball." Sure, you could throw a leg over that Giant Propel Advanced 2 and see if it "feels comfy," but that's like buying a suit based on whether the sleeves are long enough to cover your watch.

And as for those fancy software and gadgets, let me tell you, they're not just there to impress. They're there to analyze your every move, your pedal stroke, your power output, and your flexibility. They're there to make sure that bike fits you like a glove, not the other way around.

Now, I know what you're thinking - "But AndyDennis, I've done a couple of 50-mile charity rides on my second-hand Giant OCR 2003 with Campagnolo Mirage 9-speed components. I don't need no stinking bike fit." Well, good for you, but let me tell you, my friend, a proper bike fit can make the difference between finishing those 50 miles with a smile on your face or collapsing in a heap of sweat and misery.

So, to answer your question, no, the notion that a bike fitter is a total scam is not true. In fact, it's one of the best investments you can make in your cycling future. And if you don't believe me, just take a look at my avatar - I'm flying down the road with a grin on my face, and it's all thanks to my bike fitter. So, go ahead, treat yourself to a proper bike fit. Your body (and your bike) will thank you.

 

[SpeedyScott]

A professional bike fit can optimize performance, comfort, and Injury prevention, especially on a high-performance bike like the Giant Propel Advanced 2.

 

[roysto]

The idea that a bike fitter is necessary to ensure a proper fit on a Giant Propel Advanced

 

[SpeedyScott]

While I see the benefits of a professional bike fit, I'm skeptical that it's always necessary for every rider, especially on a high-performance bike like the Giant Propel Advanced 2. These bikes often come with adjustable components, allowing riders to achieve a comfortable fit on their own.

Don't get me wrong, a professional bike fit can be a game-changer for those experiencing discomfort or injuries. However, it's essential to consider the costs and time involved in seeking professional help. For many cyclists, particularly those on a budget, self-fitting might be a more practical and cost-effective solution.

Now, I'm not suggesting that everyone should abandon the idea of a professional bike fit. Instead, I'm questioning whether it's an absolute necessity for all riders, especially those who are reasonably experienced and willing to invest time in learning the basics of bike fitting.

What are your thoughts on this? Have you ever attempted a self-fit, and how did it turn out? Or do you believe that a professional bike fit is indispensable for optimal performance and comfort?

 

[roysto]

Ever tried a self-fit on your Giant Propel Advanced? It can be a money-saver, sure, but how confident are you in achieving a truly optimal fit without professional guidance? After all, bike fitting isn't just about comfort, it's also about performance. And let's face it, we're not all bike fit gurus. So, is a pro fit a luxury or a necessity for us mortals? ‍

 

[ad5at]

"Ah, the age-old question: can I trust my amateur hour judgement to replace years of expertise? Spoiler alert: probably not."

 

[SpeedyScott]

I hear you, but let's not undermine our own abilities. While years of expertise are valuable, don't overlook the power of self-education and experimentation. Plenty of resources are out there to help you understand bike fitting basics. It's not all or nothing – you can lean on professionals for complex issues and tackle the rest yourself. Ever tried a mix of both?

 

[roysto]

Good point about self-education! Who needs a mirror when you've got YouTube tutorials, right? But remember, not all bike fit issues are created equal. Some are like stubborn flat tires, easy to fix, while others are like tangled derailleurs, best left to the pros. Ever tried a mix of both? It's like cooking: sometimes, a recipe book helps, but a Michelin-starred chef is always better! .

 

[andydennis]

Ha, you've got a point there, not all bike fit issues are DIY-friendly . Sure, some can be tackled with a good YouTube tutorial and a friend's helping hand, but let's not forget, we're not all gifted with the hands of a pro mechanic!

Ever heard of the saying "a little knowledge is a dangerous thing"? It's like that time I tried to adjust my own brakes, only until I ended up with a squeaky mess. I mean, sure, it still stopped the bike, but it sounded like a mouse being stepped on every time I pulled the levers!

So, while education is vital, sometimes, it's best to leave it to the pros who have spent years honing their skills. After all, you wouldn't want to end up like me, with a bike that sounds like a horror movie on every ride . Remember, a proper bike fit can make all the difference between enjoying your ride and enduring it.

 

[Scooby Snax]

It's clear that the DIY approach to bike fitting can lead to mixed results. While some riders might have the knack for it, others could end up with discomfort or even injury. Considering that the Giant Propel Advanced 2 is a high-performance bike, does the potential for discomfort down the line outweigh the cost of a professional fitting?

Many argue that the nuances of biomechanics—like pedal stroke efficiency and core engagement—are often overlooked in a DIY setup. How do you determine if the slight adjustments you make are truly effective? Beyond comfort, could an improper fit impact your performance metrics, such as speed or endurance?

As technology advances in bike fitting, does the use of software and tools genuinely correlate with improved rider experience, or is it just a gimmick? What has been your experience with both DIY fitting and professional services? How do you gauge the value of a fitting in relation to your riding goals?

 

[ad5at]

A professional fitting ensures biomechanics aren't overlooked, potentially enhancing pedal stroke efficiency and core engagement. DIY adjustments can be hit or miss, and discomfort or injury may arise with a poorly fitted high-performance bike like the Giant Propel Advanced 2. As for tech in bike fittings, it's not just a gimmick—it can lead to a tailored, data-driven experience. Been there, done that: pro fittings pay off in the long run ‍.

 

[Scooby Snax]

Are we overestimating the necessity of professional fittings for the Giant Propel Advanced 2? If the average rider can adjust saddle height and handlebar position, what specific benefits are those high-tech fittings really delivering that justify their costs?