If you are looking to purchase your next ride, I would strongly recommend that you visit ATA in Concord (or Cambridge). I acquired my most recent bike from ATA and was extremely impressed with my entire experience. \r
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Prior to visiting ATA there were 3 other “fittings” from the usual suspects from Vermont and the Boston area. While these certainly were an improvement from the stock setting with the original bike…they were by no means at the level provided by Husam at ATA. One of my bikes is totally custom…from the ground up…still a great bike (rides like a Cadillac)…but by no means provides the responsiveness and power from the bike/fit from ATA.\r
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My fit is for triathlon, Ironman and 70.3 distances\r
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An example…prior to the new bike/fit provided by ATA, I was a strong cyclist…usually in the top 10% (roughly top 20% running). My first race with the new bike (in the late summer/early fall of 2008) I managed to be in the top 2% on the bike (5th overall and fastest in my AG - 22.94 mph, 2:26:53) and top 5% on the run (this is for the 70.3 distance). Can this leap be a case of “new-bike-itis” …sure…but that does not explain the run improvement, that was based on the bike fit…I had fresh legs. \r
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The chronic back pain that I had been plagued with for 4 years…was GONE!!! Also, prior to the race, I had only 1 outing on the new bike (about a 30-40 mile ride).\r
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There is an enormous difference between someone that goes to a fit school and someone that actually understands fitting. The protocol listed on the ATA site is exactly what is followed…fit the person to the bike…not the other way around. The Concord store is packed with “lustworthy rides” and any of them would be a great addition to your “stable”….BUT…Husam had to order my bike frame (he was not clearing out his inventory) and I “patiently” waited for my ride to arrive…he said 7-10 days…he delivered the fully assembled bike in 5 days (how refreshing…under promising…over delivering).\r
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If you just want a bike…you can go anywhere. If you want service, attention to detail and a fit process that exceeds your expectations…ATA is your shop.\r
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