What is the Sensei Fitting System?
Sensei is a proprietary process, developed through R&A Cycles’ 40+ years experience mastering bike fit. The Sensei process is based on listening, teaching, calculations and intuition. Sensei is not just numbers, it is cutting edge technology and techniques, applied with the knowledge of the most experienced fit technicians on the planet.
What does Sensei mean?
A Sensei is commonly known to be a teacher, or master of particular arts. The literal meaning of Sensei is 'one who has gone before you in life'. A Sensei is therefore seen as an experienced and lifelong provider of physical, mental and spiritual training.
This is a perfect summation of the Sensei Fitting System. With over four decades experience, more brands, more inventory, and more clients from every corner of the globe, R&A Cycles has more bike fitting expertise than anyone in the world. Sensei is more than just a one-time calculation of measurements. It is about the rider completely understanding their optimal set-up and technique, and an on-going relationship that lasts long after leaving the studio.
Philosophy
The purpose of Sensei is to grow cycling by helping riders to feel good and perform well on their bikes. Unlike many other fitting systems, Sensei is completely unbiased towards certain brands and frame styles. We believe that with the right knowledge and processes, a good fit can be achieved between any rider and their own individual preference of bike.
The Sensei Bike Fitting Process
A Sensei fit involves approximately 2 - 3 hours in our fit studio. In addition to this, we take the time to understand you and your needs prior to your visit. This saves you time on-site and allows us to prepare the studio for your own requirements. Following the visit, we offer complete post-consultation support, including any required tweaks based on riding with your new fit.
1. Pre-consultation & measurement
The first step involves learning about you and your cycling - your goals, experience, fitness and flexibility, as well as anatomical measurements taken on a static measuring jig. This allows us to understand your body dimensions and the riding positions it can create, as well as how you might be set up optimally to achieve what you want to achieve on the bike.
2. Physiological analysis
This allows us to identify your body’s capabilities and limitations. We don't believe in forcing you onto a fit, but rather making the bike conform to what your body wants to naturally do. It involves active warm up and assessment on biomechanics and mobility.
3. Virtual set up, analysis and fine tuning
You will then be set up on a Position Simulator from Shimano Dynamics Lab. This allows for a precise set up based on the initial measurements, with incremental adjustments made quickly and easily. 3D motion capture technology is used to analyze pedalling and identify how different adjustments impact efficiency and power output. This also allows for different components to be easily swapped onto the bike and tested, all while we continue gathering your feedback, and fine tuning your position.
4. Virtual set up, analysis and fine tuning
You will then be set up on a Position Simulator from Shimano Dynamics Lab. This allows for a precise set up based on the initial measurements, with incremental adjustments made quickly and easily. 3D motion capture technology is used to analyze pedalling and identify how different adjustments impact efficiency and power output. This also allows for different components to be easily swapped onto the bike and tested, all while we continue gathering your feedback, and fine tuning your position.
5. Set and validate on your bike
Once we have found the ideal position using the simulator, we set up and validate it on the actual bike. Each bike will feel different out in the real world, and will vary to the simulator based on the different materials of the frame and components, and how they act under the rider’s weight. Sensei is not ruled by numbers, the process is also about feedback and fine tuning to achieve your own optimal level comfort and performance on the bike.
6. Education
The Sensei process involves educating the rider on the different factors that alter how the bike fits, handles and performs. Understanding what the numbers represent will allow you to continue making improvements and adjustments over time, as factors such as your strength, fitness, flexibility and goals change. After a Sensei fit you will not only have your bike set up, you will have an understanding of how your technique and position on the bike affects your comfort, performance and handling.
Sensei Fit Guarantee
Satisfaction is guaranteed with the Sensei fit. Contact us or return to the studio as many times as you need within the first 3 months, and we will continue to perfect your fit for comfort and performance at no additional charge.
How to get a Sensei Bike Fit
Sensei fittings are available by appointment and conducted at R&A Black, 468 Baltic Street, Brooklyn, New York. Appointments can be made by phone or email.