This post is in continuation of the “Let’s Get Aero” series. Read Part I if you haven’t already done so.

I had my original bike fitting done by the good folks over at Brick Well Cycling but wanted a second pair of eyes to look over and see if any adjustments need to be made. I decided to get fit by Ed Cangialosi, the owner and founder of Reparto Corse (means “racing department” in Italian). While at the same time buying clip-on aero bars (profile design t2+ s-bend) at a reasonable $89.99. The professional fitting was also very reasonable at $175 (took 2 hours) compared to the average price in the city at ~$300 which made it worthwhile to commute 35 minutes from the city.

Ed has a home-office set up so don’t expect the traditional brick-and-mortar storefront. He had me fill out a questionnaire ranging from basic contact info, stress levels at work & home, riding history & style, on bike issues (numb groin), and prior and current injuries (knee/lower back/shin splints).

We then took a series of bike (in case we need to go back to original setup-we have it on record) and physical (me) measurements (toe touch, hip height, arch measurements, etc)

Ed measuring my stick

I am not riding a broomstick. Ed is just measuring my inseam. Relax.

Stretch measurements

I forgot exactly what the purpose of this was but Ed was lifting my leg with his hand behind my back to see when my hips move. He takes these measurements as indications of flexibility.

You're not too flexible

Stretching is something I am working on, but for now I’m not too flexible. Considered average.

I'm thoroughly enjoying this

My friend Mike whispered to me “Brokeback mountain” which evidently made me laugh. I quickly reminded him that I out-raced him on a mountain bike while he was riding a road bike. He stopped laughing.

Computrainer Analysis

Computrainers are wicked cool. Expensive, but if you like working with data then you’ll go gaga for this. I learned a lot about myself based on the information it was spitting out. For example, the Spinscan Pedal Stroke Analysis software showed that my left leg was pushing 55% of the power output while my right was pushing 45%. In addition, it tells you a Spinscan number for both legs to give an indication on how efficient your pedal stroke is. Here is an example of what I saw on the screen (this isn’t my spinscan)

Spin Scan

This isn’t a video of me but one I found on youtube that discusses this further if you’re interested:

The coach from the youtube video says elite athlete’s tpyically attain a spinscan score of 85-90+ in tests. Age-group and recreational often run 60-70. Funny, my score was around 65-72 per leg.

Installing aero clip-ons

Right aero-bar installed. Ed flipped the stem to get lower in a more aggressive and aero position.

Aero Test

Testing my new aero position, which was unexpectedly comfortable!

Mike getting his stick measured

Of course Mike felt left out and asked Ed to measure his stick before we left. My stick was bigger.

Ed & I + Wine = Successful fitting

Ed is a man of many talents. In addition to racing bikes, building bikes, selling bikes, fitting bikes — he races cars and makes his own wine. He gave me a bottle which I graciously accepted.

Overall, Ed’s approach is comprehensive and thorough. He takes the time to jot your current measurements and makes changes while relying on video, computer, and customer feedback to provide you the best fit possible. Whether you want to hear it or not, he provides detailed explanations as to why he’s making adjustments for you to better understand the importance of how an adjustment can affect a ride. He’s serious about what he does but also has a great sense of humor because he actually laughs at my jokes.

Can’t wait to get on the road and think I’ll go ride Prospect Park in the morning. Will let you know how it goes!

Learn more about Ed and his business: http://www.repartocorse.com/about_us.htm

Find Ed on linked in: http://www.linkedin.com/in/edcangialosi

Find Ed’s write-ups: http://forums.roadbikereview.com/blog.php?do=showjournal&j=32

(the above information is a testament to my awesome e-stalking google skills)