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Among modern bike fitting systems that use digital tools to ensure comfort and performance, the Bioracer Motion system stands out for its simultaneous analysis of both sides of the cyclist, providing a unique insight into their movements, symmetry, and stability. This is a valuable aid for the operator, who nevertheless remains at the heart of the system. We were able to verify this after a fitting carried out at the Mohawk’s Experience Center in Val d’Oise, the only Bioracer Motion dealer in France.
By Guillaume Judas – Photos: 3bikes.fr
The Bioracer Motion is the only system available that simultaneously analyzes both sides of the cyclist in motion. This information is a prerequisite for creating the ideal pedaling stroke, both in terms of performance and comfort, and to limit the risk of injury, especially for those who ride a lot. But obviously, it remains a tool at the service of the operator or fitter, who must be trained and experienced and, above all, act according to the client’s feelings.
Titouan, our tester, is a young rider who is making great progress, having only started cycling in 2019, but who is already training seriously and has solid ambitions. After having experimented on his own and set up his bike according to his sensations, he needed to refine his position to further optimize his performance and also avoid some recurring muscle contractures after difficult sessions.
The origin of the system
Behind the creation of the Bioracer Motion in the early 2010s are three personalities who combined their skills to create what they consider to be the most advanced bike fitting system to date. Starting with Raymond Vanstraelen, founder and CEO of Bioracer, who had already used his experience for over 30 years to improve the position of hundreds of cyclists, including many professionals, and who had already developed a system of custom molded insoles to stabilize the foot in the shoe in the early 2000s. Discussing with Dr. Pieter Mertens, a general practitioner and former World Tour rider (from 2004 to 2007 with Predictor – Lotto), who was also disappointed by the lack of scientific tools for bike fitting, they decided to combine their complementary knowledge by partnering on this project with Jeroen Dierckx, a software engineer specializing in 3D motion capture. This is how this 3D motion capture system for adjusting the cyclist on their bike was born, using ultra-precise high-speed cameras and wireless active markers.
Simultaneous control of both sides
The Bioracer Motion consists of a bike that can be adjusted to the millimeter in all positions (“fitting bike”), two sets of ultra-precise infrared cameras installed on both sides of the cyclist, and 20 wireless sensors placed on the joints (10 on each side of the body). The cameras can thus capture the cyclist’s movements from both sides, at a speed of 120 frames per second. The recorded data then provides a 3D view of all movements on the bike, whether laterally, or from above or behind.
The adjustable bike can be replaced by the cyclist’s usual bike. The adjustment process is thus faster than with the Bioracer bike, but limits possible position modifications, if for example the choice of bike is too far from the ideal size. In case of a necessary stem or handlebar change for the final decision, mounting on a classic bike can also extend the time required for the study. “In this case, we might have to cheat a little,” begins Nicolas Julien, who is in charge of the Bioracer Motion bike fitting at Mohawk’s. “And with hydraulic braking systems, changing a stem, raising or lowering the cockpit can quickly become problematic during the study.” Nevertheless, this was the option chosen by Titouan, and fortunately Nicolas did not encounter this type of problem with his bike. To verify this, he first performed a classic measurement, measuring segments and joint range of motion.
In addition to the 3D display of movements, the software also allows for the analysis of specific joint movements. The operator can thus zoom in on a specific joint and precisely study its movements, and possibly compare them with those of the opposite joint. Other parameters are also measured, such as the maximum and minimum angles of the joints. These are ideal data to then guide the operator in their decision-making process.
“The Bioracer Motion is extremely precise, but it doesn’t take sides in the decisions we make in agreement with the cyclist,” Nicolas Julien continues. “However, it allows us to visualize any imbalances, to detect problems related to one leg being shorter than the other or the consequences of a pathology or an old injury. Beyond a simple measurement of size and different segments, this dynamic visualization allows us to adapt the position to seek the best body stability on the bike, for better comfort and better performance. The philosophy of the system is based on both symmetry and stability, and that’s what it primarily allows us to measure. It’s then up to me to find the solutions in terms of adjustments to compensate for small discrepancies so that the cyclist can fully express their potential.”
Everything starts with the foot
In terms of stability, the study begins with the creation of thermoformed internal insoles, molded to the shape of the feet. “These insoles provide comfort and stability, and are the basis of a good position,” the operator continues. “They are inseparable from a perfect cleat adjustment, and of course influence the proper functioning of the joints during pedaling.”
With their usual bike, the cyclist is then observed and analyzed, and different options are tested, with modifications visible on the software each time. When the fitting bike is used, the operator makes modifications during the pedaling analysis, until the best compromise is found, from which the choice of the ideal bike is then extrapolated.
Such a study can last from two to four hours, and costs €349, including insoles. “We guarantee the Bioracer Motion study for three months,” Nicolas Julien concludes. “This means that we can make readjustments after several training rides, if the cyclist is not entirely comfortable with the new settings, for example.”
Immediately noticeable improvements
For Titouan, the slight modifications made to his position were immediately noticeable from the first few pedal strokes. “I immediately felt the difference in the way my feet rolled during pedaling,” he confirms. “I felt both more power and a more natural cadence. I was too high on my saddle, and Nicolas lowered me by about 15 mm. However, he didn’t need to touch my cockpit. He also modified the position of my cleats under my shoes. This slightly lower saddle position stabilized my pelvis and made me feel better with my hands in the drops. This is an exercise I tried to do regularly, but I was never very comfortable. Now, riding in an aerodynamic position and holding that position is much easier for me.” Our tester, however, had a little more trouble adapting to the insoles: “For the first few days, I felt some discomfort under the balls of my feet, but this eventually disappeared. As I changed shoes at the time of the bike fitting, I found a much stiffer setup. My first shoes were not high-end and I had gotten used to that flexibility. Now, I appreciate the extra performance provided by the stiffness and stability under my feet.”
Ultimately, Titouan feels both more efficient and more comfortable. “I feel slightly less tired after a difficult ride,” he admits. “I can ride a little faster on the flats at least, because I naturally adopt a more aerodynamic position. I also recover better, which allows me to do a little more. Such a bike fitting obviously doesn’t change your fitness level. But it’s part of all those things we can call marginal gains, and which, when accumulated, really make a difference.”
Bioracer Motion Bike Fitting Rating: * Pros: simultaneous analysis of both sides, insoles included in the price, 3-month guarantee Price: €349 (with insoles) Contact: mohawkscycles.fr |
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