I am a 62yo competitive cyclist who has been racing for 25+ years. After spending a lifetime dedicated to competitive athletics, including years of running and cycling, I recognize the importance of proper fit and position to avoid injuries and produce optimal power and results. As I approached 60 yo I knew I wanted to continue to race and be competitive; however, as I got older I was plagued by back pain and neck pain, and the 15 year old bike frame I had cracked and needed to be replaced. A fellow master racer mentioned Ata and his extremely positive experience with the fit and the bike he purchased there, which made me look into learning more about the fit and expertise offered by Ata Cycles. I decided that if I wanted to continue to race at this age, and were going to invest in a new bike, I wanted to ensure the bike was the proper bike, which fit me well. I investigated Ata and decided it was worth taking the 184 mile round-trip drive from my home to learn more and consider being fit.
Upon walking into to Ata Cycles in Concord a few weeks following back surgery, I was greeted by owner Husam Sahin to discuss a potential fit and quickly noticed the high quality of bikes in the shop. I was iimmediately impressed by Husam’s professionalism and interest in understanding his clients potential issues and concerns; his approach was very much akin to a physician trying to diagnose and treat a problem. Upon return for the professional fitting, Husam’s approach to the bike fit was scientific and methodological, he put you through a series of tests to understand how you generated power and based upon your body’s biomechanics, Husam discussed potential bikes and suggested a fit position that was appropriate based on my results.
Husam is about identifying the right bike for the right person. All bikes are not created equal, and some may be more appropriate for one person vs. another. Husam tries to understand each person’s unique biomechanics and riding style, and fits their bike to them that results in the most comfortable position and efficient generation of power. Husam achieves these results in a scientific, craftsman-like manner and, most importantly, he is a pleasure to work with and takes a genuine interest in understanding each persons individuals needs in helping them achieve the appropriate fit.
After going through the fit process, Husam unaware of the current bike I was riding, said there are three bikes which, based on your body and fit results I would not recommend for you, and one of them was one of the bikes I was riding. My goal of the fit was to identify the right bike and fit for my body to minimize the risk of injury and ensure comfort on the bike with efficient generation of power. I cannot be happier with my experience or selection. Husam fit me with a fantastic bike, which fits great and is the most comfortable bike I have ever been on. Husam, Kate and the other members of the shop have consistently demonstrated a professional and positive atmosphere to not only fit and purchase a bike, but to address questions, tweak position, as well as ensure the cleats were adjusted properly based on my fit when I purchased new cycling shoes. I highly recommend Ata cycles for anyone looking for the right fit and the right bike.
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