Bicycle Set-Up Dimensions and Cycling Kinematics: A Consensus Statement Using Delphi Methodology

Abstract

Bicycle set-up dimensions and cycling kinematic data are important components of bicycle fitting and cyclist testing protocols. However, there are no guidelines on how bicycles should be measured and how kinematic data should be collected to increase the reliability of outcomes. This article proposes a consensus regarding bicycle set-up dimensions and recommendations for collecting cycling-related kinematic data. Four core members recruited panellists, prepared the document to review in each round for panellists, analysed the scores and comments of the expert panellists, reported the decisions and communicated with panellists. Fourteen experts with experience in research involving cycling kinematics and/or bicycle fitting agreed to participate as panellists. An initial list of 17 statements was proposed, rated using a five-point Likert scale and commented on by panellists in three rounds of anonymous surveys following a Delphi procedure. The consensus was agreed upon when more than 80% of the panellists scored the statement with values of 4 and 5 (moderately and strongly agree) with an interquartile range of less than or equal to 1. A consensus was achieved for eight statements addressing bicycle set-up dimensions (e.g. saddle height, saddle setback, etc.) and nine statements for cycling kinematic assessment (e.g. kinematic method, two-dimensional methodology, etc.). This consensus statement provides a list of recommendations about how bicycle set-up dimensions should be measured and the best practices for collecting cycling kinematic data. These recommendations should improve the transparency, reproducibility, standardisation and interpretation of bicycle measurements and cycling kinematic data for researchers, bicycle fitters and cycling related practitioners.

Fig. 1

Flowchart of the process

Fig. 2

Example of saddle mechanisms adjustment. A Continuous adjustments system (adapted from https://wattbike.com/). B Discrete adjustment system (original image, Bodytone Monster model; Bodytone International Sport SL, Murcia, Spain)

Fig. 3

Proposed saddle height measurement. The red dashed line represents the sum of the yellow (from the bottom bracket to the centre of the saddle) and blue lines (crank length)

Fig. 4

Proposed saddle setback measurement. Red dashed line represents the sum of the yellow (horizontal distance from bottom bracket to the centre of the saddle) and blue lines (crank length)

Fig. 5

Effective seat tube angle

Fig. 6

Proposed vertical difference between handlebar and saddle height measurement

Fig. 7

Proposed vertical measurement for integrated handlebars

Fig. 8

Diagonal distance between handlebar and saddle

Fig. 9

Foot pedal position (red arrow)