Trek introduces bike fit system
Aug. 28, 2007 -- Press Release: Trek Bicycle Corp is excited to announce its Bike Fit System, part of its ever-expanding Trek University educational system, the mission of which is to empower Trek’s network of independent bicycle dealers with the tools, training, and information they need to provide their customers with best-in-class service. A comprehensive, two-day seminar, Trek’s Bike Fit System is designed to educate bicycle retailers on the importance and benefits of a properly fitting bike, the basic biomechanics of cycling, and the expert fitting techniques necessary to give customers the most enjoyment and greatest benefits from cycling. Led by fit gurus Michael Sylvester and Dr. Mark Timmerman, classes are currently scheduled for 11 major metropolitan areas throughout the country, with seminars beginning in late 2007 and running into 2008.
“How a bike fits its rider is critical to his or her performance, safety, and overall enjoyment,” noted Joe Vadeboncoeur, Trek’s Director of Product Development. “That’s why we’re really excited to provide our dealers with tools they need to fit customers properly. It’s an important aspect of riding a bike that’s too often overlooked or misunderstood.”
Unlike other fit systems that rely solely on a few skeletal measurements and mathematical formulas, Trek’s system looks at the complete rider, factoring in things like the rider’s unique anatomy, flexibility, range of motion, and riding style into the fit equation.
“Having Michael Sylvester, a true expert in the process and execution of bike fitting, and Dr. Timmerman, a highly regarded doctor in Sports Medicine, gives our system a credibility and sophistication other systems don’t have. “ said Roger Bird, Trek’s Director of Retail Services. “In Michael we’ve got 15 years of experience fitting over 8000 riders; in Dr. T we’ve got the medical understanding to back it up. Together, they’re able to look at the whole rider and his or her unique fit needs. Too often other systems often boil down to one guy’s philosophy and a mathematical formula. Our system considers the entire rider, not just measurements,” continues Bird.
Michael Sylvester values the relationship he has with Trek and says, “Trek has the industry’s #1 dealer support network and has the power to set the tone in terms of how the industry works with bike fitting. Trek’s leading designers, engineers and product people will help me take fitting to the next level. This is the greatest combination I can imagine; a great company and my fitting experience.”
The two-day Bike Fit seminar costs $500 per fitter and includes lunch both days and a Trek Bike Fit System Certificate upon satisfactory completion of the course. Seminars are scheduled for the following cities: Minneapolis, Dallas, Orlando, Los Angeles (Orange County), San Francisco, Tucson, Baltimore, Atlanta, Denver, Boston, and Seattle.